Last Updated on April 15, 2026 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
By Olaoye Oyewole & Tayo Onayemi
The Department of Pure and Applied Botany, College of Biosciences (COLBIOS), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), today, April 13, 2026, joined the global community to commemorate this year’s International Plant Appreciation Day, with a renewed call for sustainable plant conservation and awareness.
Speaking at the event, the Dean of COLBIOS, Prof. Iyabode Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Dean, Prof. Kehinde Ademolu, commended the Head of Department and staff for organising the celebration, noting that it aligned with the University’s commitment to capacity development. He emphasised the indispensable role of plants in human life, particularly in health, natural medicine, and environmental sustainability. The Dean further applauded the Department for its consistent academic and research excellence, assuring that the College would continue striving for greater achievements.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Celebrating Nigerian Plant Heritage: The Beauty, Benefits, and Future of Our Native Plants,” the Provost, Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, Prof. Ibrahim Lawal, described plants as fundamental to life and deeply rooted in cultural, spiritual, and scientific systems. Drawing from religious texts, Yoruba traditions, and modern science, he highlighted the enduring relevance of plants in human existence.
He noted that Nigeria was richly endowed with plant biodiversity, stressing that students in plant-related disciplines hold the key to a sustainable future, particularly as the global community increasingly embraces natural and organic solutions. According to him, plants are “living libraries of knowledge” that require a blend of cultural understanding, scientific inquiry, and practical application. He urged participants to actively engage in research, conservation, and sustainable practices.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer, Ammila Trado Medical Academy, Ibadan, Dr. Benjamin Ige, described plants as humanity’s “elder brothers,” noting that they predate humans and have continually sustained life by providing food, medicine, oxygen, and shelter. He expressed concern over the growing threats to plant species due to urbanisation, agricultural expansion, and overexploitation, warning that many are now endangered.
Dr. Ige noted the direct link between human survival and plant sustainability, calling for urgent action to protect biodiversity. He highlighted the central role of plants in both traditional and modern healthcare systems, saying that many global medical practices, including African traditional medicine and Chinese medicine, rely heavily on plant-based resources. He added that all parts of plants, leaves, roots, bark, seeds, and flowers, possess significant medicinal value, while encouraging interested students to explore training opportunities in traditional medicine.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Ag. Head of the Department, Dr. Olusegun Fawibe, expressed appreciation to the University Management, the College leadership, and staff for their support in making the event a success. He described the occasion as not just a celebration, but a reminder of the vital role plants play in sustaining life, preserving the environment, and securing the future.
Dr. Fawibe noted that plants are central to human existence, providing oxygen, food, and ecological balance, while also fostering a connection with nature. He, however, raised concerns over threats such as deforestation, climate change, habitat loss, and unsustainable exploitation, calling for increased commitment to research, conservation, and public awareness. He encouraged all stakeholders to promote sustainable management of plant resources for present and future generations.
Dignitaries at the event included the former Deans of the College, Prof. David Agboola and Prof. Oluseyi Akinloye, and Heads of Departments, and researchers. The celebration featured exhibitions and the presentation of awards to outstanding students in recognition of their academic excellence and contributions.
