By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal has advocated the use of digital solutions to addressing the myriad of challenges facing planet’s ecosystems notably combating illegal wildlife trade, mitigating habitat loss, tackling the impacts of climate change among others.
The Minister said this in his keynote address on the World Wildlife Day celebration with theme, “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Conservation in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to him, “technological advancements offer us unprecedented opportunities to enhance conservation efforts and forge deeper connections between humanity and the natural world. From cutting-edge monitoring systems to innovative data analytics, digital tools empower us to better understand, protect, and preserve our wildlife.
“By leveraging innovative solutions, we not only amplify our capacity to protect endangered species but also foster greater connectivity between people and the planet they call home.
“Digital conservation transcends geographical boundaries, fostering global collaboration and knowledge sharing among scientists, conservationists, and communities worldwide. By harnessing the collective power of technology, we can unite in our efforts to safeguard biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come
In his opening remarks, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Environment, Alhaji Mahmoud Adam Kambari said wildlife plays the critical role of maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems and sustaining life on Earth.