INTERNATIONAL BIODIVERSITY DAY 2025: A Call to Action for Nigeria must go beyond Words
By Dr Salamatu Fada
Today, as we mark International Biodiversity Day, we are reminded that biodiversity is not just about wildlife it is the foundation of our food systems, health, climate resilience, and sustainable development. The 2025 theme, “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development,” calls for a renewed commitment to living in balance with the natural world.
Key points to remember and ponder on:
Biodiversity as a pillar of Sustainable Development: Biodiversity supports all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From clean water (SDG 6) and zero hunger (SDG 2), to climate action (SDG 13) and good health (SDG 3), nature’s ecosystems (SDGs 14 & 15) provide essential services that promote human well-being and economic stability.
Nigeria’s rich natural heritage: Nigeria is home to diverse ecosystems from the Niger Delta wetlands to the savannahs in the northern States and rainforests in the parts of the Southern States, harbouring thousands of plant and animal species. However, habitat loss, pollution, and unsustainable human practices threaten this wealth.
Harmony with Nature:a cultural and ecological imperative
Indigenous knowledge systems in Nigeria have long promoted harmony with nature. Revitalizing these practices, alongside modern conservation science approaches, can foster more inclusive and effective biodiversity strategies.
The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF): adopted in 2022, the GBF is a landmark international agreement that commits 196 countries to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. It sets ambitious targets, including conserving 30% of land and marine areas, restoring degraded ecosystems, and reducing harmful subsidies. The GBF embodies the spirit of harmony with nature by promoting equitable benefit-sharing, sustainable use, and ecosystem restoration as pathways to sustainable development.
The Nature PACT (2025): building on the GBF, the 2025 Nature PACT reinforces global solidarity and accountability. It emphasizes national implementation, transparency, and financing mechanisms to close the biodiversity funding gap. The PACT encourages countries to align biodiversity goals with climate and development agendas, ensuring that nature-positive actions are central to economic planning and community resilience.
Call to Action for Nigeria’s stakeholders
IBD 2025 presents a crucial opportunity for Nigeria’s stakeholders to unite in a shared commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Policy makers must take decisive action by strengthening environmental laws and ensuring that biodiversity is integrated into national development plans. By prioritizing ecological health, they can lay the foundation for a more sustainable future. Meanwhile, communities hold the power to drive change from within by championing community-led conservation efforts and adopting sustainable livelihoods that safeguard natural resources for generations to come.
The private sector also plays a pivotal role in shaping a nature-positive economy. Businesses must embrace innovative green solutions and invest in sustainable models that minimize environmental impact while fostering economic growth. Likewise, youth and educators have a responsibility to inspire the next generation by promoting biodiversity education and stewardship, instilling a deep appreciation for nature that translates into action.
This call to action must go beyond words it must be reflected in policies, partnerships, and tangible practices that protect and restore the natural world. When stakeholders work in harmony with nature, we create a future that is not only resilient and equitable but one where prosperity is rooted in sustainability. Let this day serve as a catalyst for meaningful change, encouraging every sector to take ownership of its role in preserving our planet.
Dr Salamatu J. Fada, FNES is
Conservation Science Professional,
Convener, Coalition for Biodiversity Conservationists of Nigeria,
Chief Exec. JAVS Environmental Cate LTD.
