The Lagos State Government says the biodiversity of the state is being threatened by rapid urbanisation and associated factors.
Mr Abiodun Bamgboye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Environment, said on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 that stakeholders should act quickly and positively to forestall further devastation.
Biodiversity or biological diversity is the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat, a high level of which is usually considered to be important and desirable.
“These ecosystems are home to a rich variety of aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals.
“Sadly, all these features are under serious threat of extinction from a range of causes, which include rapid urbanisation, trafficking and climate change,” Bamgboye said in a statement.
He said that the state was committed to sustainable biodiversity management by creating adequate awareness required for stimulating action for the conservation of biological diversity and economic growth.
According to him, the biodiversity of Lagos State is an essential asset that must be sustainably managed.
Bamgboye said that the biodiversity of the state must be wisely utilised and conserved for future generations.
He said that the United Nations had set aside May 22 for the annual celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity.
According to him, this year’s celebration focuses on biodiversity as the foundation for food and health with the theme – “Our Biodiversity, Our Food, Our Health”.
“This year’s theme is apt, as it aims to project the importance of nature’s diversity for existence and well-being on earth, while also contributing to other Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.
Bamgboye described biological diversity as “the variety of plants and animals living in an ecosystem”.
He said that its importance could not be overemphasised as it engendered the provision of food security, environmental stability, ecosystems restoration and recreational values, among others.
By Florence Onuegbu
