The Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Bayero University, Kano, Prof. Aliyu Salisu-Barau, has highlighted the connection between environmental degradation and the security crisis in Nigeria. Speaking at a conference on sustainability and ecological resilience, Prof. Barau emphasized the urgent need to address the escalating ecological crises globally.
Addressing the theme of the conference, ‘Addressing Global and Local Environmental Crises: Islamic Perspectives and Muslim Experiences’, Prof. Barau underscored that the recklessness towards the environment is fueling insecurity and economic collapse. He expressed concerns about the increasing ecological crises posing a threat to social stability and economic sustainability worldwide.
Highlighting the disparity in carbon emissions, Prof. Barau stressed that the negligence of environmental responsibility is leading to irreversible disturbances, including rising temperatures, extreme climate events, and land degradation. He warned that these environmental challenges are pushing humanity perilously close to irreversible tipping points.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Sagir Adamu-Abbas, commended the conference as a call to action, emphasizing the critical role of faith in inspiring collective action for environmental sustainability. He emphasized the need to bridge the gap between knowledge and action and turn environmental sustainability into a lived reality, particularly through the collaborative efforts and shared principles of Islam.
Additionally, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Abubakar Adamu-Rasheed, highlighted the long-standing discussions and warnings on the importance of environmental sustainability, issuing a stern warning about the consequences of neglecting the environment on the wellbeing of people.
Keynote speeches at the conference focused on the intersection of theology and action in addressing the climate crisis, underlining the importance of integrating religious principles into environmental conservation efforts.
The conference serves as a significant platform to catalyze collective efforts in addressing ecological challenges, uniting voices across academia, faith, and practice to build a just and sustainable future for generations to come.
