Prof. Ogidiolu Delivers PAAU 18th Inaugural Lecture, Advocates Sustainable Forest Management
Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, has held its 18th Inaugural Lecture, with Professor Adesola Ogidiolu presenting a compelling discourse on environmental sustainability and the pivotal role of geographers in forest management.
According to a statement issued by Uredo Omale, Public Relations Officer, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba., The lecture, titled “Geographers in the Forest: Issues, Concerns and Tasks,” was delivered on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the University Auditorium. It explored the intricate relationship between humans and the natural environment, with emphasis on forest ecosystems, resource management, and sustainable development.
In his presentation, Prof. Ogidiolu highlighted the multidisciplinary nature of geography, describing it as a field that bridges human and physical environments to better understand spatial patterns and ecological interactions.
He noted that his area of specialization, biogeography, focuses on the distribution of plants and animals in relation to environmental factors, playing a vital role in ecosystem analysis and management.
The inaugural lecturer identified major areas of concern for geographers within forest environments, including forest resource distribution, soil productivity, nutrient cycling, vegetation dynamics, biodiversity conservation, climate change, and the increasing rate of deforestation.
He stressed that forests are essential to human survival, providing economic benefits, ecological stability, climate regulation, and livelihood support.
However, he warned that Nigeria remains among countries experiencing high rates of deforestation, driven by agricultural expansion, logging, urbanization, and heavy reliance on fuelwood.
According to him, the consequences of forest depletion include biodiversity loss, climate change, soil degradation, food insecurity, and disruption of livelihoods.
Drawing from his research on forest soil productivity and the growth performance of indigenous tree species, Prof. Ogidiolu demonstrated how factors such as soil nutrients, moisture levels, and climatic conditions influence forest sustainability.
He emphasized the need for data-driven approaches in forest management.
He also addressed emerging issues such as forest-related insecurity, the role of forests in poverty alleviation, and the urgent need for alternative energy sources to reduce pressure on forest resources.
Prof. Ogidiolu called for coordinated efforts toward sustainable forest management through stronger government policies, improved agricultural practices, and enhanced public awareness on conservation.
He advocated afforestation, restoration of degraded forests, community participation, and greater adoption of alternative energy solutions. He also urged policymakers to accord geography greater prominence in Nigeria’s education system.
Earlier, Chairman of the Inaugural Lecture Committee, Professor Sunday Salifu Arogba, recalled delivering the University’s maiden inaugural lecture in 2008 under the administration of the late Professor Francis Sulaiman Idachaba.
He commended the Vice-Chancellor for revitalizing the inaugural lecture series and congratulated Prof. Ogidiolu on delivering the 18th edition.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, described the lecture as a significant milestone in the University’s intellectual tradition and the first under his administration.
He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the inaugural lecture series as a cornerstone of academic excellence.
Prof. Usman disclosed that the University Senate has approved a structured plan to host more inaugural lectures before October 2027 to deepen scholarship and intellectual engagement.
He also announced an increase in stipends for inaugural lecturers to encourage participation and reward academic excellence, noting that the institution is aligning with global best practices.
He commended Prof. Ogidiolu for delivering a timely and impactful lecture that addresses pressing global and local environmental challenges, including climate change and ecological imbalance.
He stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling environmental issues and achieving sustainable development.
The Vice-Chancellor further urged the Inaugural Lecture Committee to sustain the momentum by encouraging more professors to participate, assuring the University community of his administration’s commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and global relevance.
The event attracted members of the academic community, stakeholders, and invited guests.
