Education
NCF Wants Reduction Of Light Pollution To Conserve Migratory Birds
The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) and some conservationists have called for the eradication of light pollution to conserve migratory birds.
This is contained in a statement issued by the NCF on Wednesday at the end of an event hosted to mark the World Migratory Bird Day in Lagos.
The Tide source reports that the statement was signed by the NCF Head of Communications, Mr Oladapo Soneye.
The World Migratory Bird Day is an annual event used to raise awareness on bird migration and the importance of protecting the flyways and habitats utilised by birds during this seasonal experience.
Bird migration is the regular seasonal movement, often north and south along a flyway, between breeding and wintering grounds. Many species of bird migrate.
Light pollution is a significant and growing threat to wildlife including many species of migratory birds.
Every year, light pollution contributes to the death of millions of birds. It alters the natural patterns of light and dark in ecosystems. It can change birds migration patterns, foraging behaviours, and vocal communication.
The statement quoted the Director-General of NCF, Dr Muhtari Aminu-Kano, as saying that Nigerians should participate jointly in bird conservation by eradicating light pollution.
Aminu-Kano expressed concern on the challenges the birds were facing, especially migratory birds challenges, such as, but not limited to loss of habitat, persecution, famine and pollution.
He said that this year’s theme: “Light Pollution: Dim the light for birds at night,” was a clarion call to action for all to jointly participate in bird conservation.
According to him, research shows that birds do have accident flying at night because of illumination from cities.
“When we switch off light bulbs that are not so useful, we help to reduce the chances of the birds having head-on-collision with buildings, trees, and other infrastructures,” Aminu-Kano said.
Dr Soladoye Iwajomo, Senior Lecturer, Department of Zoology, University of Lagos, defined light pollution as the introduction of artificial light, either directly or indirectly, into the natural environment.
Iwajomo said that light pollution results in the alteration of the natural pattern of light and dark in ecosystems.
According to him, light pollution is often caused by the way the light is emitted from lighting equipment.
He said that choosing proper equipment and carefully mounting and aiming would make a significant difference.
Also speaking, Mr Abdulmalik Ogizi, who represented the Federal Ministry of Environment, said that migratory birds fly hundreds of thousand kilometres to find the best ecological conditions and habitats for feeding, breeding, and raising their young ones.
“When conditions at breeding sites become unfavourable, it is time to fly to regions where conditions are better.
“The phenomenon is accompanied by several anthropogenic, political, and environmental challenges on the migratory bird’s survival and conservation,” Ogizi said.
He said that the 2022 campaign highlights the impacts of the increasing but underestimated threat of light pollution on migratory birds.
Ogizi noted that artificial light was increasing globally by at least two per cent per year with adverse effect on bird species.
He said that light pollution was a significant threat to migratory birds, causing disorientation when they fly at night, leading to collisions with buildings, increasing their vulnerability as prey to other animals perturbing their internal clocks, or interfering with their ability to undertake long distance migrations.
The NCF’s Species Programme Lead, Dr Stella Egbe, said that, the world comes together to celebrate and raise awareness on the beauty and threats of migratory birds twice every year.
Egbe described migration as the seasonal movements of birds between their breeding and wintering sites.
She said that the seasonal activity is an important event that ensures the survival of lots of bird species.
“Every year, ornithologists, and conservation biologists study birds in all types of environments globally, monitoring their numbers and diversity.
“In recent years, it has been observed that species are declining rapidly, driving species to the brink of extinction.
“From habitat loss, indiscriminate killing and trade in birds, plastic pollution, birds are increasingly exposed to factors within the environment that they have not adapted to.
“It has been discovered that some adult birds are being harvested, which will prevent reproduction.
This will cause general decline in the population of birds,” Egbe said.
Education
Promote Learning In Boychild, Sanwo-Olu Tells Stakeholders
The wife of the Governor of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has advised stakeholders in the education sector to promote learning opportunities for the boychild.
Speaking at the 60th anniversary thanksgiving reception of Eva Adelaja Girls’ Secondary Grammar School, Bariga, Sanwo-Olu maintained that there should be equity in education.
The old girls of the school held a week-long event to celebrate their alma mater at 60.
Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the wife of Permanent Secretary, of Health District 4, Dr Modupe Bowale, said “We should promote educational opportunities in male children and they should also be given the orientation on how to achieve their potential. No child should be left alone.”
She also advised that the girlchild should not be subjected to harrowing experiences, adding that a culture of silence should not be encouraged.
“Girlchild should be encouraged to fulfill her potential while we pay attention to her excellence, knowledge, skills, and opportunities. We must all speak up for the girlchild and seek justice for affected persons.”
Also speaking, Global President, EAGSGSOGA, Mrs Rhoda Ayinde, explained that the milestone (60th anniversary), was a testament to the enduring legacy of excellence and achievement the school had upheld.
Education
Monarch Advises Pupils To Embrace Postive Learning , Shun Cultism
The traditional ruler of Otumara community, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye, has advised pupils and children to shun cultism and embrace positive learning for a brighter and more rewarding future.
Kalejaiye, who is the grand patron of Lagos Mainland and Yaba Local Government Schools Sports Officers Association, gave the advice at the annual Inter-House Sports competitions of Lagos Mainland Local Government Primary School, Ijero Baptist Primary School, and Eleja Primary School held last Thursday and Friday at the schools’ premises.
The traditional ruler urged the pupils to be conscious of their safety and environment and report any suspicious moves, physical harassment, or anyone trying to lure them into cultism or take advantage of them to their teachers or parents.
He said, “We thank Almighty God for making this sports event a successful one. I commend all participants in various categories of sporting events, including the teachers, pupils, and handlers in both schools. I must say, the event was well-packaged. Congratulations.
“Ijero Baptist Primary School is very dear to my heart, not just because the Omolara Kalejaiye Lemon House is sponsored by me but because I began my primary school education here before I left when I was in primary 2”.
“In fact, walking into the school premises brings to my mind the memories of yesteryears. I give God all the glory for that.
“To the pupils, the best advice I can give, and that which I have always been giving, is for you to be good children to your parents, teachers, and your neighbors.
“You should always obey your parents because being attentive and an obedient child is rewarding both now and in the future. Don’t join cultists and don’t associate with bad friends.
“Face your education for a brighter and more rewarding future. Let me ask you, is cultism good or bad? As you are aware that cultism is bad, don’t join it. We are now in an age where cultism is being introduced to primary schools.
“You are the leaders of tomorrow, and that tomorrow is what you are preparing for today. For a brighter future that lies ahead, if anybody tries to lure you into a bad company or cultism, report such to your teachers at school or if it is at home, don’t hesitate to report such a person to your parents.
“Always remember at all times to be a good child and a good ambassador of your school.”
The highpoint of the sports events was the presentation of trophies and cash gifts to the first, second, and third places by the grand patron.
Education
Tanker Crushes Fresh Graduate After Clearance In Abia Poly
A yet-to-be identified tanker last Tuesday, reportedly crushed a fresh graduate of Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, Ezekiel Mary Ogechi, in front of the institution.
It was gathered that the deceased, who studied accounting, was at the Polytechnic carrying out academic clearance in preparation for the National Youth Service Corps scheme
Ogechi was said to have made a distinction in accounting and received a scholarship from an organisation to do a post-graduate course.
However, the tragic incident occurred after carrying out the clearance and crossing the road when a tricycle hit her before she was crushed by a moving truck.
According to the source angry students of the Polytechnic mobilised a protest after Ogechi was found lying under the truck.
The source said: “Unfortunately, she was hit by a tricycle while trying to cross to the other side of the road; before she could get up, she was then crushed by a fast moving truck.
“The management of the Abia State Polytechnic and the Students Union Government of the institution saved the day as the angry students were begged to calm down.
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