The Vice Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja, Olayemi Akinwumi, says the institution is committed to combating the recurrence of floods and erosion affecting many parts of the country.

Mr Akinwumi stated this at the inauguration of an International Centre for Climate Change, Flood and Environmental Sustainability on Thursday in Lokoja.

The VC said that climate change and environmental degradation posed significant threats to the planet; as such, it was a collective responsibility to offer solutions and policies to mitigate the impacts.

“Lokoja, the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers, had witnessed a devastating consequence of recurrent floods and environmental challenges.

“These realities compel us not only to study climate change but to pioneer sustainable solutions that will safeguard lives, livelihoods, and the future of generations,” he said.

According to him, the centre is more than a research hub but a beacon of hope, innovation, and resilience.

Mr Akinwumi added that the centre would serve as a hub for interdisciplinary research, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, fostering a deeper understanding of these complex issues.

He explained that it would provide evidence-based research, policy direction, and community-focused interventions to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

“It will also reduce flood vulnerability and promote sustainable development in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond,” he said.

Also speaking, the Centre Director, Prof. Jimmy Adegoke, said that climate change was a global issue that demanded urgent attention to save humanity and the environment.

“Flooding is a major issue here in this region, due to climate change, which respects no boundaries.

“What is expected of us is urgent response, collaborative, and unwavering action to fight the trend for the good of humanity,” he said.

Earlier, the chairman of the local organising committee, Olarewaju Ifatimehin, said that the centre was both an academic unit and a beacon of resilience, innovation, and global collaboration.

He said that through cutting-edge research, policy engagement, and community outreach, the centre would serve as a hub for climate change adaptation and mitigation.

(NAN)