Don Advocates for Interdisciplinary Institute to Harness Resources in North-Central Nigeria

By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja

Nigerian-American climate scientist Prof. Jimmy Adegoke has called for the establishment of an interdisciplinary institute at the Federal University Lokoja to tackle environmental challenges and optimize the utilization of solid minerals and aquatic resources in North-Central Nigeria.

Delivering the 10th Distinguished Public Lecture at the university’s Felele Campus, themed “A Tale of Two Cities: Climate Threats and Economic Opportunities at the Confluence of the Great Rivers Niger and Benue,” Adegoke emphasized the need for a collaborative approach that integrates various disciplines such as economics, environmental science, and engineering.

He proposed that the institute act as an umbrella organization for existing research centers, fostering innovation in economic revitalization, environmental sustainability, and trade. “The goal of this institute would be to transform the middle-belt region into an engine of economic growth and prosperity,” he stated.

Highlighting the underutilization of the Niger and Benue Rivers, Adegoke urged states in the region to devise strategies to leverage seasonal flooding for enhanced agricultural production. He advocated for the dredging of these rivers to enable year-round navigation, facilitating the transportation of goods and promoting tourism along Nigeria’s inland waterways.

Reflecting on the historical significance of Lokoja as a hub for raw material aggregation during colonial times, Adegoke argued for the revival of water transportation to enhance economic opportunities. “We need to transform the Niger into a working river to evacuate resources cheaply and safely,” he said.

Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice Chancellor of FUL, praised the lecture series as a significant step in the university’s commitment to fostering intellectual discourse on societal issues. He noted the unique environmental and economic challenges presented by Lokoja’s location at the confluence of major rivers, calling for collaborative efforts to address climate-related risks while capitalizing on available resources.

On the sidelines of the lecture, Mr. Henry Adimoha, Acting General Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), attributed the perennial flooding in Kogi State to urbanization and population growth. He highlighted the need for strategic urban planning to mitigate flooding risks.

The call for an interdisciplinary institute aligns with ongoing efforts to address the pressing environmental challenges facing Nigeria while promoting sustainable development in the region.