VC calls for increased research funding to tackle environmental challenges

SANGO OTA (Sundiata Scholar) – Ogun Prof. Timothy Anake, the Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University, Ota, in Ogun, has called on the Federal Government to invest more in research in order to provide solutions to environmental challenges in the country.

Anake made the call in an interview on Monday in Ota.

He stressed the need for federal government to spend additional funds on research, as the country was currently facing numerous environmental challenges.

The VC listed some of the challenges to include contamination of water, inadequate waste disposal, plastic waste and pollution among others.

According him, these environmental problems pose serious health implications and threatens human existence.

“There is a need to sensitise the public on the health implications, as these challenges are causing degradation and negatively impacting all aspects of society.

“In addition, the government needs to embark on an innovative approach, strengthen the policy framework, and foster genuine collaboration with industries, institutions and communities,” he said.

Anake noted that environmental cleanup was not a luxury but a fundamental prerequisite to sustainable development, economic prosperity, and the well-being of the people.

He urged federal government to ensure compliance with required environmental protection regulations.

He added that the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), state ministries of environment, and relevant offices at the local government areas should be made to perform their oversight duties.(NAN)