Forest Management Crucial for Security and Job Creation

During the 18th inaugural lecture at Prince Abubakar Audu University in Anyigba, Professor Adesola Ogidiolu discussed the critical role of forest management in enhancing national security and creating jobs. He noted that forests are vital for human survival, providing economic value and ecological balance, while also supporting livelihoods.

However, he lamented the neglect of forest resources, which has led to increased criminal activities and insecurity. Ogidiolu called on the government to invest in modern monitoring technologies to reclaim forest areas from criminal elements and unlock their economic potential.

He also highlighted the alarming rates of deforestation in Nigeria, driven by agricultural expansion, logging, and urbanization, which contribute to biodiversity loss, climate change, and food insecurity. Vice Chancellor Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman praised Ogidiolu's timely lecture, which addressed pressing global and local environmental challenges.

The university plans to strengthen its commitment to academic excellence through such engagements.