Akure: Prof. Olusuyi Fabiyi from the Forestry and Wood Technology Department at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has announced that the Okonla Mangrove Ecosystem Restoration Project (MERP) is set to play a vital role in mitigating climate change. Coordinating the Centre for Human Settlements and Sustainable Development (CHUSSDEV), Fabiyi highlighted the project’s potential during its implementation in Okonla, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Fabiyi elaborated that the project aims to remove 10,000 metric tonnes of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) annually, a reduction equivalent to the emissions from 150,000 cars. The initiative is designed to restore the mangrove ecosystem and introduce sustainable livelihoods for the community, thereby enhancing productivity and environmental preservation.
The project, funded by a grant from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), involves tree planting and alternative livelihood training for the youth, women, and residents of Okonla Community. The first phase in Okonla Community is set to expand to other areas, with the community donating 50 hectares of land for the project.
Fabiyi noted that the mangroves in the community have been severely degraded due to human activities. The project encourages community participation, where residents are trained in mangrove cultivation from nursery to planting and care. Furthermore, the initiative includes training in modern aquaculture, empowering participants with resources such as floating cages, fingerlings, and fish feed to boost their livelihoods.
Dr. Adetoun Olaitan, representing the UNDP Global Environment Facility Small Grant Programme, stressed the importance of empowering communities to tackle environmental challenges. She emphasized the role of community-driven initiatives in making environments habitable and solving local issues, supported by UNDP through training and seminars.
Prof. O.V. Oyerinde from FUTA also highlighted the empowerment of women through the ‘green gold’ initiative, focusing on non-timber forest products like snails and eco-friendly leaves. This initiative aims to replace single-use plastics and generate household income, thereby strengthening household resilience and encouraging eco-friendly alternatives.
Oba Okun Akinbulejo, representing the Okonla Community, expressed gratitude towards UNDP and CHUSSDEV, committing to protecting the mangrove areas for future generations. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that mangroves offer crucial coastal protection, carbon storage, and support for fisheries and biodiversity.