..charged to tackle environmental degradation in Bayelsa
ELIZABETH VINCENT, Yenagoa
The Department of Geography and Environmental Management at Niger Delta University (NDU) has been tasked with conducting relevant research to help mitigate the effects of pollution and environmental degradation in Bayelsa State and the wider Niger Delta region.
Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo issued the charge during a courtesy visit by an eight-member delegation from the department, led by the Sub-Dean of the Postgraduate School, Professor Odafivwotu Ohwo, at Government House, Yenagoa, on Thursday.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo emphasized the department’s strategic role in advising relevant government ministries and agencies on environmental issues, highlighting the urgent need for research into climate change and other pressing ecological challenges.
According to him, the university must live up to its societal responsibility by producing impactful research that addresses real-world problems.
His words: “We believe the university should serve both the ‘town and gown.’ Unfortunately, it seems to be leaning more towards the ‘gown’ lately, with insufficient impact on the ‘town.’
“We expect your department to delve into the issues of pollution in Bayelsa and the Niger Delta—collect samples, conduct tests, and publish environmental reports that demonstrate relevance and currency.
“On matters of pollution and environmental degradation, we want to see research findings that will inform the Ministry of Environment and other government bodies in making evidence-based decisions.”
Addressing concerns raised by the delegation regarding accreditation, Senator Ewhrudjakpo assured them that the government would adopt a comprehensive approach to meeting the requirements of the National Universities Commission (NUC) ahead of the next accreditation exercise.
He advised the department to channel its accreditation needs through the university management and reminded all state-owned tertiary institutions to submit their requirements at least six months before their respective accreditation deadlines.
Earlier, Professor Ohwo commended the state government’s commitment to educational development and appealed for its continued support in strengthening the Department of Geography and Environmental Management.
He specifically urged the government to assist in equipping the department’s weather house, Geographic Information System (GIS), geomorphological, and cartography laboratories with essential instruments to enhance research and teaching quality.
Professor Ohwo noted that providing these resources would not only aid the department in meeting accreditation standards but also improve its chances of attracting research grants and external funding.
Accompanying Professor Ohwo on the visit were the Head of Department, Dr. Adedeyin Omidiji, and other senior academic staff, including Sir Tonpagamo Tamuno and Dr. Ebifuro Odubo.
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