A 5-hectare Conservation Park is set to be established within the campus of the University of Ilorin, Kwara State, as part of efforts to promote environmental sustainability, improve air quality, and enhance the overall well-being of students and staff.
This development follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the university and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), aimed at strengthening collaboration on environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.
The MoU signing ceremony, held on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the University of Ilorin, will also see the development of programmes to promote youth engagement in environmental conservation.
As part of the agreement, UNILORIN students will be registered as NCF members, while both institutions will undertake joint research and project development initiatives, including carbon assessment of the university’s forest resources.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), said the partnership underscores the institution’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
“This partnership reflects our dedication to promoting environmental sustainability and conservation within our university. We commend NCF, a critical stakeholder, for this unique collaboration that strengthens our efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable development. We look forward to creating a lasting impact on our campus and beyond,” he said.
On his part, the Director-General of NCF, Dr. Joseph Onoja, described the initiative as a commendable step.
“The deliberate efforts of the University of Ilorin are highly commendable. Establishing conservation projects on campus will significantly amplify our advocacy for nature conservation. Partnerships like this provide training grounds and serve as practical learning centres for students in forest resource management,” he noted.
Over the years, NCF has collaborated with educational institutions, including tertiary institutions, to develop curricula and activities that promote environmental awareness and nurture environmentally responsible students.
The establishment of conservation parks in tertiary institutions represents an innovative approach to addressing environmental challenges, offering practical solutions for conservation and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Reporting By Innocent Onoh