The Association of Nigerian Geographers (ANG), South East Zone, recently concluded its three-day annual conference at Imo State University, Owerri. The event, themed "Environmental Resources Management: Prospects and Challenges," attracted over 158 participants from across Nigeria. Keynote speakers, including Rev. Prof. Chigbo Ajero and Prof. Joachim A. Onyike, underscored the urgent need for sustainable resource management in response to global population growth and mounting environmental challenges.
The conference featured 64 paper presentations covering a broad spectrum of topics, including environmental sciences, geography, sustainability studies, climatology, and social sciences. Prof. Emma Ezenwaji of Nnamdi Azikiwe University highlighted the necessity of preserving ecosystem services for future generations. In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University, Prof. U.U. Chukwumaeze SAN, who was represented by Prof Mike Nwachukwu the Director of ICEP and member of the Governing Council Imo State University Owerri warmly welcomed participants and emphasised the conference’s timely relevance.
Keynote addresses centred on the increasing demand for natural resources and their critical role in sustaining life. Speakers identified pressing challenges such as climate change, pollution, and weak policy implementation, advocating for renewable energy solutions and stronger environmental policies. A lead paper presenter stressed the importance of public participation in environmental decision-making processes.
A key highlight of the event was an innovative exhibition by students from St. Patrick’s Secondary School, who showcased creative waste management techniques. They repurposed plastic bottles into functional items such as water sprayers and chairs, demonstrating the potential for waste recycling within local communities.
The conference delved into several sub-themes, including environmental resource management in agriculture, environmental health and waste management, climate change, and urban planning resilience. Other topics explored included policies for a sustainable future, digital tracking of environmental impacts, gender issues in resource management, sustainability challenges, the circular economy, and the application of geospatial techniques in environmental management.
Participants underscored the need for robust environmental management strategies, particularly the integration of geospatial mapping and GIS technologies. They identified the 3R strategy—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—as essential for effective solid waste management and resource conservation. The conference concluded with key resolutions, including launching public awareness campaigns on waste management and climate change, urging government action to shift public attitudes towards environmental responsibility, and advocating for stronger environmental policies.
This event was part of a broader global effort to address environmental challenges, aligning with international initiatives such as the UNECE Resource Management Week 2025, which focuses on sustainable resource management in the context of energy transitions. The success of the conference underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting environmental sustainability, setting the stage for future initiatives in Nigeria and beyond.
The Local Organising Committee Chairman, Dr Lazarus Chikwendu, along with other committee members, expressed their joy and satisfaction over the success of the programme. They also wished all participants a safe journey back to their respective universities and destinations.
Other Dignatories present were
Prof Emma Ezenwaji FANG Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Prof. G. N. Chima Chairman Abia Independent Electoral Commission (ABIEC), Prof E. C. Onyenechere FANG National Financial Secretary Association of Nigerian Geographers ANG, Master of Ceremony Nze Ralph Njoku-Obi was present and made the occasion worthwhile.
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