Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia state, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Abia State Ministry of Environment for cooperation in the promotion of research, demonstration and capacity development for the conservation of natural resources.
Speaking during the signing ceremony which held at the VC’s conference room recently, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe commended Abia State Ministry of Environment for opening its doors for meaningful partnership. He described the conservation of natural resources as an area that should not be ignored.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the University is interested in the conservation of natural resources as evident in its efforts to build a new botanical and zoological garden. He described the partnership as a welcome development that would substantiate the University’s efforts toward the conversation of natural resources.
Responding, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Iheanyichukwu Ubani who represented the Commissioner for Environment, Abia State, applauded the development strides of the Vice-Chancellor. He expressed optimism that the partnership with the University would contribute meaningfully to the country’s efforts toward the protection of the environment.
Some specific areas of cooperation captured in the MoU include natural forest regeneration and afforestation; establishment of medicinal plant species and standard Arboreta, as well as the establishment of conservation programmes for African rare plants of various species within the biodiversity corridors.
The ceremony was attended by principal officers of the University including the Ag. Bursar, Chief Ugochukwu Ironkwe and the University Librarian, Dr. Isaac Ogbonnaya. Internal council member, Mrs. U.K. Onuma attended as the representative of the Ag. Registrar, Mr. P.C. Nwaoma.
The Dean, College of Natural Resources and Environment Management, Prof. Anthony A. Nlewedim; former dean of the college, Prof. Emmanuel Nzegbule, and the
Ag. HOD, Department of Forestry and Environmental Management, Dr. Benson Nwajiobi were also present at the event.
