The Newly elected National President of the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), ESV. Prof. Muhammad Bashar Nuhu, has called on all members of the Society across the country to strengthen their collective commitment to environmental protection, climate action and sustainable development, stressing that safeguarding Nigeria’s environment is a shared responsibility that requires sustained professional engagement, public awareness and collective action.
In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Dr. Okobi, Jacob Emmanuel, Prof. Nuhu emphasised that the Nigerian Environmental Society, as a professional body dedicated to advancing environmental management and sustainability, has a critical role to play in addressing the country’s growing environmental challenges through research, advocacy, policy engagement, capacity development and community-based interventions.
He urged members across the Society’s national, zonal and state structures to translate their professional knowledge and expertise into practical solutions that address environmental degradation, climate change, flooding, erosion, deforestation, biodiversity loss, air and water pollution, and the increasing challenges associated with solid waste management.
According to the NES President, the scale and complexity of Nigeria’s environmental challenges demand stronger collaboration among environmental professionals, government institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations, academic institutions, development partners and local communities.
“Environmental protection is not the responsibility of government alone. It is a collective obligation that requires the active participation of professionals, communities, institutions and every citizen. As members of the Nigerian Environmental Society, we must demonstrate leadership through our knowledge, professional conduct, advocacy and practical contributions to building a cleaner, healthier, safer and more sustainable Nigeria,” Prof. Nuhu stated.
The President called on NES members to intensify efforts towards climate change mitigation and adaptation by promoting climate-resilient development, sustainable land-use planning, renewable energy, ecosystem restoration, nature-based solutions and environmentally responsible production and consumption.
He noted that climate change continues to pose significant risks to livelihoods, food security, public health, infrastructure and economic development, particularly in vulnerable communities. He therefore encouraged members to support climate awareness programmes, promote evidence-based environmental decision-making and contribute technical expertise to the development and implementation of effective climate policies and strategies.
Prof. Nuhu further stressed the importance of integrating environmental sustainability into national and subnational development planning, noting that economic growth must be pursued in ways that protect natural resources, safeguard public health and preserve environmental quality for present and future generations.
The NES President called on members to remain active in the Society’s programmes and initiatives, contribute meaningfully to professional activities, and strengthen engagement with relevant stakeholders within their respective states, local government areas, workplaces and communities.
He identified the following priority areas for collective action:
Environmental awareness and advocacy: Promote environmental education, public enlightenment and responsible environmental behaviour in schools, workplaces, markets and communities.
Climate change response: Support practical mitigation and adaptation initiatives, climate-risk awareness, ecosystem restoration and community resilience programmes.
Sustainable waste management: Advance waste reduction, segregation, recycling, resource recovery and circular-economy practices while discouraging indiscriminate waste disposal and plastic pollution.
Environmental research and innovation: Encourage scientific research, data-driven assessments, technological innovation and the application of professional expertise to emerging environmental challenges.
Policy engagement and regulatory compliance: Contribute to the formulation, implementation and monitoring of sound environmental policies, standards and regulations at all levels of government.
Youth and professional development: Mentor young environmental professionals, strengthen technical capacity and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare the next generation of environmental leaders.
Partnerships and community participation: Build constructive relationships with government agencies, professional bodies, private organisations, civil society and community leaders to deliver measurable environmental outcomes.
He also urged NES branches and chapters to develop practical, locally relevant environmental initiatives, establish stronger partnerships with relevant institutions and document their achievements to demonstrate the Society’s contributions to environmental sustainability and national development.
Prof. Nuhu reaffirmed the importance of unity, professionalism, accountability and active participation among members, noting that the strength of the Nigerian Environmental Society lies in the collective expertise, commitment and contributions of its membership.
He encouraged members to uphold the Society’s professional values, promote constructive engagement and work together towards achieving its environmental objectives. He also called for greater visibility of NES activities and stronger public engagement to ensure that environmental protection remains central to Nigeria’s development priorities.
“The time has come for every member of the Nigerian Environmental Society to recognise that our collective impact depends on what we do individually and together. Whether through research, professional practice, environmental education, policy advocacy, community service or institutional partnerships, every meaningful contribution counts.
“We must move beyond conversations to concrete action, measurable results and lasting environmental impact. Let us work together to protect our environment, strengthen climate resilience, promote sustainable development and secure a better future for generations to come,” he said.
The President expressed confidence that, through renewed commitment, cooperation and professional excellence, NES members across Nigeria could significantly strengthen environmental governance and contribute to national and global sustainability efforts.
He called on all members to remain steadfast in their professional responsibilities and to make environmental stewardship a defining feature of their service to the Society, the nation and humanity.
