Last Updated on May 3, 2026 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
By Raymond Osemene
The College of Environmental Resources Management (COLERM), today, April 27, 2026, held the opening ceremony of its maiden Annual Conference themed “Transdisciplinary Resources Management for Sustainable Environmental Resilience in Emerging Economies.” The event, held at the Red Chamber, attracted Academic staff, policymakers, and key stakeholders, providing a robust platform for knowledge exchange and the development of practical strategies to advance sustainability and resilience in emerging economies.
Delivering the opening address on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, described the conference as a critical forum for intellectual engagement, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving. He noted that the gathering highlighted the need for integrated and forward-thinking approaches to tackling contemporary environmental challenges, while reaffirming FUNAAB’s commitment to academic excellence, impactful research, and community engagement aimed at producing globally competitive graduates.
The Vice-Chancellor noted the timeliness of the conference, stressing that emerging economies must strike a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability. He advocated a transdisciplinary approach that harmonises science, policy, and practice, with emphasis on renewable energy, green economy initiatives, and strengthened environmental governance frameworks.
Earlier in his Welcome Address, the Dean of COLERM, Prof. Olusegun Oguntoke, underscored the importance of the conference in advancing environmental knowledge and innovation. He expressed optimism that the forum would stimulate meaningful dialogue, foster collaboration, and contribute significantly to environmental management discourse. He also appreciated the support of the Vice-Chancellor for providing an enabling environment and reiterated the College’s dedication to developing practical and integrated solutions to environmental challenges.
The keynote lecture, delivered by Prof. Adeniyi Gbadegesin who was represented by Prof. Amidu Ayeni, emphasised the need to move transdisciplinary resource management from theoretical discussions to practical implementation with direct societal impact. He highlighted the importance of environmental policies that reflect social realities, balance ecological protection with human needs, and clearly define responsibilities across all levels of governance.
Prof. Gbadegesin also called for strengthened environmental monitoring systems, advocating a shift from passive data collection to proactive frameworks driven by real-time reporting. According to him, such systems would enable immediate interventions when environmental thresholds are exceeded. He further warned against the adverse effects of rapid land-use changes caused by urban expansion and infrastructure development, noting their role in accelerating land degradation and weakening ecological systems.
Speaking also, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Prof. Omotola Jayeola, described the conference as a significant milestone in COLERM’s evolution since its establishment in 1988. He noted that the event aligned with the College’s vision of promoting innovation and dialogue in environmental sustainability, even as he acknowledged the invaluable contributions of retired Professors to its growth and development.
A major highlight of the conference was the presentation of Special Merit Awards to retired Professors of the College, in recognition of their outstanding contributions, dedicated service, and enduring impact on academic excellence and institutional development.
