The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwase III, urged for the protection of Niger Delta mangroves during an art exhibition in Lagos. He highlighted the ecological importance of mangroves in absorbing carbon and preserving heritage. The exhibition aims to raise awareness about mangroves’ value amidst environmental threats, featuring the works of environmentalist Dr. John DeBebs.
The Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwase III, has issued a call to protect the mangroves of the Niger Delta from foreign exploitation disguised as carbon credit offsets. This statement was made during an art exhibition in Lagos, featuring works by environmentalist Dr. John DeBebs. The exhibition, themed ‘The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, the Mangrove and Art,’ runs from March 5 to March 13 and is organized by Crimson Fusion Curators.
His Majesty emphasized the necessity for indigenous communities to safeguard their land and heritage, underscoring the significant role mangroves play in absorbing carbon and combating climate change. He articulated, “They are more than just ecosystems; they are the lungs of our heritage. They sustain our life, they protect our shores, they preserve our identity.” The Issuer of the statement condemned the external interests that threaten the sovereignty of the Niger Delta.
Curator Oriiz Onuwaje stated that the exhibition appreciates the beauty of the mangroves and aims to underline their ecological importance amidst narratives of disaster and underdevelopment in the Niger Delta. He asserted, “The mangroves of the Niger Delta hold more value to the world than the Amazon,” highlighting the urgency of conservation efforts in the region.
Dr. DeBebs expressed that his artworks are inspired by the vital role mangroves play in carbon extraction, hoping the exhibition will enhance awareness regarding their ecological services. He conveyed, “Once the awareness grows, then the mangroves will thrive more because people will now be more interested in ensuring that they are not just destroyed.”
The exhibition serves as both a celebration of the Mangroves’ beauty and an urgent call for increased efforts in their protection and preservation against the prevailing threats of climate change and exploitation.
The call from the Olu of Warri underscores the crucial need for protecting Niger Delta mangroves against external economic interests. The ongoing art exhibition enhances awareness about the significance of mangroves in combating climate change. It reflects a unified stance amongst local leaders and environmentalists for conservation, self-determination, and the cultural integrity of the Niger Delta community.
Original Source: nannews.ng
