Bassey urges Nigerian universities to drive climate action

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

Renowned environmental activist Nnimmo Bassey has called on Nigerian universities to take the lead in addressing climate change, describing the crisis as an urgent threat that requires immediate action.

Speaking during the 2026 World Environment Day celebration at Igbinedion University, Okada, Bassey said climate action could no longer be delayed.

He warned that climate change is fuelling a global polycrisis characterised by food insecurity, biodiversity loss, pollution, economic instability, displacement and conflict.

According to him, Nigeria is already experiencing severe consequences, including flooding, coastal erosion, desertification, declining agricultural productivity and increasing heat stress.

Bassey stressed that although Africa contributes only a small fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, the continent suffers disproportionately from climate-related disasters.

He called for climate justice, insisting that countries and industries responsible for the bulk of emissions must bear greater responsibility for tackling the crisis.

The environmentalist also criticised decades of environmental degradation in the Niger Delta, citing oil spills, gas flaring and widespread ecosystem destruction.

He warned that the transition to renewable energy must be fair and inclusive, cautioning against replacing fossil fuel exploitation with what he described as “green colonialism”.

Highlighting Edo State’s ecological assets, Bassey said its forests, biodiversity and indigenous knowledge systems provide opportunities for sustainable development.

He noted that several forest reserves in the state require urgent restoration to strengthen climate resilience and support biodiversity conservation.

Bassey urged universities to mainstream climate literacy across all disciplines and develop research focused on solving local environmental challenges.

He said higher institutions should function as centres of innovation, policy influence and community engagement in the transition towards a sustainable future.

The activist further encouraged universities to adopt sustainable practices, including renewable energy solutions, waste reduction measures, water conservation initiatives and ecosystem restoration projects.

Bassey maintained that campuses must bridge scientific knowledge with indigenous experience to develop practical climate solutions.

He also urged Nigerian universities to challenge policies and projects that appear environmentally friendly but fail tests of sustainability and justice.

According to him, Nigeria’s climate challenge presents an opportunity to build people-centred energy systems and environmentally responsible economies.

Bassey called on stakeholders to act decisively, warning that the choices made today would determine the wellbeing of future generations.