Ogun State has been chosen as one of three Nigerian states to benefit from a $1 million biodiversity initiative launched by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). The project aims to promote environmental protection while alleviating poverty through sustainable livelihood programmes.
The Head of UNESCO’s Nigeria Office, Jean-Paul Abiaga, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, on Tuesday in Abeokuta.
Abiaga explained that the initiative will empower at least 600 beneficiaries in the state through education, forestry, and agricultural development projects. Implementation will take place within the Omo Biosphere Reserve, located in Ijebu North and Ijebu East Local Government Areas. The two other participating states are Cross River, which hosts the Oban Biosphere Reserve, and Plateau, home to the Shere Hills Reserve.
He described the project as a unique model linking biodiversity conservation to community empowerment. “The biodiversity business is a tool for poverty reduction, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development,” Abiaga stated.
According to him, 200 participants have already been selected, while the remaining beneficiaries will be chosen by local stakeholders from 10 host communities. The programme will emphasise reviving local enterprises and supporting young people through technical, financial, and educational capacity building, particularly in sectors such as pig farming and aquaculture.
Enjoying this article? Share it with your network!
The Ogun State Government applauded the collaboration, describing it as a significant contribution to its ongoing efforts to preserve the Omo Forest Reserve and promote sustainable natural resource management.
In his remarks, Talabi expressed appreciation to UNESCO for including Ogun State among the beneficiaries and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the initiative’s success. He noted that the project complements the state’s anti-deforestation drive and its broader vision to curb illegal human activities in forest conservation zones.
Talabi highlighted that the Omo Forest Reserve, covering approximately 130,500 hectares, remains one of Nigeria’s most vital ecological areas, sheltering over 200 tree species, 125 bird species, and several endangered animals, including the forest elephant, white-throated guenon monkey, and chimpanzee.
He assured that the state government would provide full institutional support to ensure seamless execution of the project. Relevant ministries—including Forestry, Agriculture, Education, and Science and Technology—will be mobilised to coordinate actions and enhance overall impact.
Experts believe the initiative presents a valuable opportunity for rural entrepreneurs and small-scale agribusiness operators to engage in environmentally responsible ventures that merge income generation with ecosystem preservation, potentially transforming local communities into centres of eco-friendly innovation.
