The Olu of Warri urges the protection of Niger Delta mangroves from foreign exploitation, highlighting their crucial role in carbon absorption during an art exhibition in Lagos. Emphasizing heritage and environmental importance, the exhibition showcases the beauty of mangroves and advocates for awareness and conservation efforts amid climate change challenges.
The Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwase III, has urged the protection of the Niger Delta mangroves against foreign exploitation disguised as carbon credit offsets. His appeal occurred during an art exhibition in Lagos that highlighted the works of environmentalist Dr. John DeBebs and advocated the theme, ‘The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, the Mangrove and Art,’ taking place from March 5 to March 13.
Emphasizing the importance of safeguarding heritage, the Olu of Warri noted that the forests are significant carbon sinks that combat climate change. He asserted, “They sustain our life, they protect our shores, they preserve our identity,” pointing out the danger posed by external entities viewing the mangroves purely as economic assets. He reaffirmed that the Itsekiri people and others in the Niger Delta refuse to let their heritage be exploited.
Oriiz Onuwaje, the exhibition curator, celebrated the aesthetic beauty of the Niger Delta, particularly its mangroves, noting that despite challenges, there is splendor within the region. He emphasized the necessity for the protection and regeneration of the mangroves, which face threats from climate change. He comparably stated that the Niger Delta’s mangroves hold greater value than those in the Amazon.
Onuwaje described mangroves as exceptional engineering feats, capable of stabilizing soil and protecting the land from tidal forces. Dr. DeBebs shared that his artwork focuses on the crucial role of mangroves in maintaining a cleaner atmosphere and expressed his wish that the exhibition would boost awareness about their significance in carbon extraction. He posited that increased public interest could aid in the conservation of these valuable ecosystems.
In conclusion, the Olu of Warri’s call to protect the Niger Delta mangroves highlights the urgent need to safeguard these ecosystems from exploitation. The collaborative effort demonstrated through the art exhibition emphasizes the importance of awareness and conservation of natural resources critical to combating climate change and preserving heritage. The commitment of local leaders and artists fosters a collective responsibility toward environmental stewardship.
Original Source: nannews.ng
