GoGreen at the First International Conference of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Benue State University

From 9th – 12th September 2025, the Faculty of Environmental Sciences at Benue State University, Makurdi hosted its First International Conference, themed: “River Benue and Sustainable Development in the 21st Century.”

It was an honor for #GoGreen to be part of this historic gathering that brought together scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and community actors to reflect on the urgent challenges and opportunities surrounding the River Benue and its role in driving sustainable development across Nigeria.

Representing our CEO, Mr. Ameh Jackson, Mr. Promise Ogbu actively participated in the discussions and delivered presentations on behalf of GoGreen. In his contributions, he underscored Nigeria SPRiNG and GoGreen’s unwavering commitment to:

• Sustainable environmental management 🌿

• Peacebuilding and conflict prevention 🤝

• Promoting social cohesion within communities most affected by environmental and resource pressures 🕊️

He highlighted that addressing environmental challenges requires more than isolated interventions—it demands collaborative, multi-stakeholder approaches that integrate the expertise of academia, government agencies, civil society, and local communities. By bridging environmental sustainability and peacebuilding objectives, GoGreen continues to demonstrate that protecting natural resources also means protecting the future of communities.

Why River Benue Matters

The River Benue is more than just a waterway; it is a lifeline for millions of people, supporting agriculture, fishing, transportation, and their livelihoods. Yet, it also faces threats of pollution, climate change, overuse, and conflict over natural resources. The conference was a timely reminder that safeguarding the river is safeguarding life, peace, and prosperity in Benue State and beyond.

Our Shared Responsibility

GoGreen’s engagement reinforced that sustainable change is only possible through partnership and dialogue. Together with our partners—Nigeria SPRiNG, UK in Nigeria, UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Tetra Tech International Development Services, Benue State Government, Civil Society Organizations, The Kukah Centre, Azurfa Women – Nigeria, and Wildlife Conservation Society Nigeria Program—we are committed to supporting research, advocacy, and practical solutions that protect the environment while building resilient and peaceful communities.

Looking Ahead

This conference was not just an academic exercise; it was a call to action. For GoGreen, it reaffirmed our conviction that peace and sustainability are inextricably linked. By investing in the health of the environment, we invest in conflict prevention, community resilience, and long-term coexistence.

As we move forward, we carry with us the spirit of collaboration nurtured at this conference—knowing that every dialogue, every partnership, and every shared solution brings us closer to a future where both River Benue and its communities thrive in harmony.

#GoGreen #EnvironmentalAwareness #ClimateAction #PeaceBuilding #CommunitySupport #Sustainability #SocialCohesion