As the world marked the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, experts at the University of Benin have urged Nigerian authorities to adopt stricter measures to protect the environment from harmful emissions.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Anthony Ogbeibu stressed that Nigeria is particularly vulnerable to ozone depletion and erythemal UV radiation, with states such as Borno, Rivers, Abuja, and Lagos recording extreme levels, especially during the dry and early rainy seasons.
He called for Nigeria’s adoption of the Kigali Amendment to phase out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in refrigeration and air conditioning, while also advocating stricter enforcement of environmental laws.
Professor Ogbeibu emphasized that sustainable action must include grassroots engagement:
“We must involve young people, schools, media, and community leaders so that this science becomes widely understood for necessary action.”
Dr. Emmanuel Ogbomida, Acting Director of the National Center for Energy and Environment, University of Benin, highlighted the dangers of obsolete equipment imported from developed countries.
He urged a transition to energy-efficient appliances free of ozone-depleting chemicals and recommended training for local technicians handling refrigeration and air conditioning systems.
The event, themed “From Science to Global Action”, also featured goodwill messages from representatives of the Federal and Edo State Ministries of Environment, as well as awards to outstanding Edo residents for their contributions to environmental protection.
Written by Innocent Onoh