Leaders across all levels of governance in Nigeria have been challenged to adopt knowledge driven strategies in tackling disaster management, boundary security and infrastructure development as well as urban planning, among others.
Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Johnbull Tonukari threw the challenge while delivering a paper titled the Place of Geography in Contemporary Knowledge and Nation Building during the third annual conference of the Association of Nigerian Geographers, South South Zone, at the Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.
Professor Tonukari noted that geography is dynamic and indispensable for national planning, particularly in enhancing the nation’s economic prospects, geopolitical significance and influences various aspects of a nation’s development,
He stated that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has been instrumental in supporting research initiatives and fostering partnerships between academic institutions and policy-making bodies.
National President of the Association of Nigerian Geographers, Professor Philip Phil-Eze whose paper focused on the challenges of geography in contemporary times, highlighted the urgent need to shift from traditional teaching methods to the use of modern technology and innovative techniques stressing the importance of fieldwork as an integral component of the discipline.
Prof Phil-Eze challenged both academics and students to demonstrate greater commitment to the study and teaching of geography while advocating the rebranding of the subject to restore its relevance and rightful place.
Professor Emmanuel Tibi, Chairman, Post Primary Education Board, in his paper titled The Place of Geography Education in Sustainable Development, identified key challenges including the shortage of qualified geography teachers in secondary schools, difficulties in making the subject engaging, inadequate field trips for practical understanding, poor technology integration, and the need for curriculum review.
In another paper titled “Leveraging Geography Education to Enhance Nigerian Army Operations”, the Commander, 63 Brigade Asaba, Brigadier General Moronfolu Shonibare. represented by Major Mustapha Sani, explained that geography plays a crucial role in military planning, terrain analysis, and operational efficiency.
Some participants including, Professor Emmanuel Inoni, Dean, Faculty of Environmental Science, Professor Joseph Oghenero and the Chairman, Local Organizing Committee of the Conference, Dr Famous Ozabor among others stated that the event provided a platform to evaluate emerging trends in the study of geography and expressed confidence that the conference would address the challenges facing geography education in the country and offer practical solutions.
The conference themed Geography and Sustainable Development in Nigeria’s Coastal Belt: Addressing Environmental and Socio-Economic Challenges, attracted key stakeholders, academics otyher critical stakeholders and students of geography, among others.
