The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has announced plans to award grants to two Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students in environmental science at the upcoming 23rd Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Lecture.
In a statement on Saturday, the foundation’s Media and Communications Manager, Olusomi Oduguwa, revealed that the grants, sponsored by Chevron Nigeria Ltd., are designed to advance research in nature conservation, biodiversity preservation, environmental management, and sustainable livelihoods.
“The grant which is sponsored by Chevron Nigeria Ltd. seeks to promote research works in nature conservation, biodiversity preservation, environmental management, and sustainable livelihood. Selection of successful candidates is done through months of rigorous adjudication exercise involving academics, professionals, and stakeholders in the fields of conservation,” Mr. Oduguwa stated.
The lecture, themed “Greening Africa’s Economies: Can Climate Positive Growth Deliver Prosperity?”, will take place on January 14 in Victoria Island, Lagos. The keynote address will be delivered by Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Vice President of Nigeria.
Mr. Oduguwa described the event as the flagship advocacy initiative of the NCF, dedicated to addressing critical environmental challenges while advocating sustainable solutions. “For over two decades, the lecture has provided a platform to address pressing environmental and sustainability issues in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
This year’s theme, he noted, underscores the need for climate-positive growth as a pathway to sustainable economic development across Africa. “With the growing impact of climate change on economies, livelihoods, and ecosystems, the lecture aims to stimulate discussions on fostering green economies that balance prosperity with environmental responsibility. Prof. Osinbajo, renowned for his commitment to economic transformation and sustainable development, will highlight pathways for Africa to achieve climate-positive growth while creating prosperity and resilience for its people,” Oduguwa added.
The Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Lecture has consistently shaped public opinion, influenced government policies, and supported researchers in advancing environmental science.
“It has equally supported many researchers in fulfilling research goals and contributing to the body of knowledge across the field of environmental science. After each lecture, recommendations are shared with the government and stakeholders,” Mr. Oduguwa stated.
The event, which attracts policymakers, conservation stakeholders, diplomats, researchers, and academics, remains central to the foundation’s vision of promoting environmental sustainability and development in Nigeria and beyond.
