The Association of Nigerian Geographers (ANG) has presented Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan with an Award of Excellence for her contributions to environmental sustainability and national development.
The Kogi Central senator received the award at the 66th Annual International Conference of the Association of Nigerian Geographers, held in collaboration with the Commonwealth Geographical Bureau at the University of Abuja.
The recognition follows a recent environmental programme in her constituency. Akpoti-Uduaghan launched an initiative to plant 10,000 economic trees across communities in Kogi Central. Tagged “Growing Kogi Central, Building Our Future,” the programme aims to promote climate action, restore degraded landscapes, improve biodiversity and create sustainable economic opportunities for residents.
Akpoti-Uduaghan thanked the ANG and the Commonwealth Geographical Bureau, saying the award encouraged her to deepen her commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
“Every tree we plant is a symbol of hope, resilience, and our collective determination to leave behind a healthier environment and a stronger economy for future generations,” she said.
She said the focus on economic trees was deliberate because they can combine environmental protection with livelihoods through fruit production, medicinal applications and commercial benefits.
“Environmental sustainability and economic prosperity must go hand in hand,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said. “Our people should not have to choose between protecting the environment and earning a living.”
The senator also stressed the importance of community ownership in sustaining environmental projects, saying government initiatives have greater impact when residents take part in protecting and nurturing them.
“Government can initiate projects, but communities sustain them,” she said. “I encourage every resident to see each tree as a legacy. Together, we can build a greener, healthier and more prosperous Kogi Central.”
The 66th conference focused on the role of geography in sustainable development and the digital transformation of the discipline. It brought together geographers, academics and practitioners from across Nigeria and beyond.
According to a statement from the senator’s media office, the award reflects growing recognition of the link between environmental conservation, economic empowerment and sustainable development.
