On March 11, 2025, the 黑料网 (AUN) and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) pledged to collaborate on environmental initiatives, including reforestation and community awareness campaigns. This commitment was made during AUN President Dr. Dewayne Frazier's visit to NESREA's Yola office, where both institutions outlined plans to combine academic expertise with regulatory enforcement to tackle pressing environmental issues.
Mr. Abubakar Hamid Aliyu, NESREA's Yola Office Coordinator, emphasized the agency's crucial role in protecting the environment and ensuring compliance with environmental laws. He highlighted NESREA's responsibilities, including enforcing environmental laws, developing regulations, and ensuring proper waste disposal. Mr. Aliyu explained the importance of community engagement in environmental conservation: "Anything related to the environment is heritage, and we have to persuade people to do the right thing. Our work involves constant compliance monitoring and organizing workshops to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect our surroundings.鈥�
He further spoke on the challenges posed by the importation of goods from developed countries, which often include harmful waste materials disguised as products. 鈥淲e have seen instances where items are shipped into the country as goods, only for us to discover that they are harmful waste materials. This not only affects our local environment but poses long-term risks to the health and wellbeing of our people,鈥� he added.
Dr. Frazier expressed AUN鈥檚 keen interest in collaborating with NESREA to support its mission. He shared insights into the university鈥檚 ongoing environmental efforts, particularly its tree nursery project, which aims to reforest the region and promote sustainable practices. 鈥淎t AUN, we believe in practical solutions to environmental challenges. Our tree nursery is one of the many ways we are contributing to the protection of our environment. We would be more than willing to collaborate with NESREA and bring in our students, especially through initiatives like the Star Club, to raise awareness and provide hands-on assistance in tackling local environmental issues,鈥� Dr. Frazier said.
The Star Club, a student-driven initiative at AUN, focuses on community service, environmental advocacy, and educational campaigns aimed at promoting sustainability. Dr. Frazier highlighted that AUN students will be eager to actively participate in NESREA鈥檚 environmental workshops, campaigns, and projects.
Reported by Pwagreno Blessing Moris