The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has pledged research grants to two PhD students from Nigerian universities whose studies focus on environmental sciences and sustainability.
The announcement was made on Friday by the NCF Director-General, Dr Joseph Onoja, while unveiling the 24th Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Lecture in Lagos.
Onoja said the grants would support research in biodiversity conservation, environmental management, and sustainable livelihoods across Nigeria.
“This followed a rigorous and transparent adjudication process involving academics, professionals and stakeholders in conservation-related fields. Since its inception, 48 candidates have been awarded this scholarship,” he added.
He revealed that Most Rev. Dr Matthew Kukah, Bishop of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, will deliver this year’s memorial lecture.
“The annual flagship event, organized with the family of the late Chief S.L. Edu, will hold on January 30 at Victoria Island, Lagos,” Onoja said.
He said the theme for this year’s lecture is ‘To Have and To Hold: Faith and Care of the Environment’.
“The lecture aims to highlight critical environmental issues and advocate solutions through insights from renowned speakers,” he stated.
Onoja added that the event has, for over two decades, addressed pressing environmental and sustainability issues in Nigeria and beyond.
He said: “This year’s theme reflects humanity’s moral relationship with nature. It invites reflection on whether our beliefs promote responsible environmental stewardship or contribute, unintentionally, to environmental degradation.”
