By Shulamite Owhoekevbo
Delta State has taken another bold step toward a greener, smarter future with the official opening of the Botanical and Zoological Garden Fair at Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba — an event that underscored the state’s growing commitment to biodiversity, climate action, and the green economy.
Organized by the Delta State Ministry of Environment in collaboration with Dennis Osadebay University and the Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE), the fair drew together government officials, academics, students, entrepreneurs, and environmental advocates under the theme:
“Nature, Trade & the Green Economy — Unlocking Delta State’s Biodiversity for Sustainable Prosperity.”
In her keynote address, the Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, lauded the initiative as a major milestone in the state’s efforts to conserve nature while promoting education and innovation.
“A botanical garden is a living library — a place for learning, research, and conservation,” she said. “It is more than beauty; it’s a classroom where people can connect with nature and understand the science of sustainability.”
Dr. Oseji commended the Ministry of Environment for promoting green spaces and urged schools to take advantage of conservation programs for excursions and field studies. She also encouraged individuals and organizations to partner with government to advance environmental conservation across Delta State.
Reflecting on past efforts, she noted that proposals for zoological gardens in Abraka (2005) and Asaba (1992) never materialized, but expressed optimism that new developments such as the Maryam Babangida Leisure Park and Film Village have begun bridging that gap.
“Being close to nature makes us more reflective, creative, and conscious of a higher order in the universe,” she added. “It even promotes mental health and can help reduce social vices.”
Earlier, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, described the fair as a turning point in Delta’s transition to a sustainable economy.
“The Commissioner, who was represented by the Mr. Godwin Enone, the Ministry of Environment’s functioning Permanent Secretary, noted that this exhibition is not merely a showcase, it is a strategic declaration that Delta State is ready to lead Africa’s Green Economy revolution,” he said.
According to him, the theme captures the state’s shift from viewing biodiversity solely as a resource to protect, to seeing it as an intelligent economic asset that can drive innovation, trade, and job creation.
He listed emerging frontiers such as eco-tourism, green finance, sustainable trade in non-timber forest products, and youth-led climate innovation as key areas of opportunity.
“Under the MORE Agenda of His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State is intentionally building an economy where environmental sustainability and economic competitiveness work hand in hand,” he added.
The exhibition featured eco-friendly enterprises including Solar Sisters, a clean energy organization promoting women’s empowerment, alongside displays by the Ministry of Agriculture, student researchers, and local conservation groups.
Visitors explored plant specimens, wildlife exhibits, and digital tools for plant identification, as well as live demonstrations of sustainable gardening techniques.
As the fair opened, participants agreed that Delta State’s vision for a green, inclusive economy could position it as a model for other regions across Africa — turning biodiversity into both a natural treasure and an economic engine.