Prof. Aliyu Salisu-Barau, the Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences (FEES) at Bayero University, Kano, has emphasised that continuous mistreatment of the environmental serves as a catalyst for the escalating the security crisis not only in Nigeria but also globally. During the first interdisciplinary hybrid conference on sustainability and ecological resilience in Muslim communities, He expressed concerns about the dark prospects that lie ahead if urgent actions are not implemented to safeguard the surroundings.
During the Kano conference, themed “Addressing Global and Local Environmental Crises Islamic Perspectives and Muslim Experiences”, Mr. Barau addressed the audience, shedding light on the pressing issue at hand. He emphasised that humanity finds itself immersed in numerous ecological crises, amplifying widespread social instability and a looming economic downfall. The university emphasised the regrettable fact that, as a species, they have carelessly discarded their duty and obligation towards the planet that was entrusted to them by God, intended for the well-being and inheritance of future generations.
Rising temperatures have endangered well-being for the past 5 years.
In several nations, about 10% of the population contributes more luxury CO2 emissions per person than the critical emissions of 90% of the poor population. Various entities such as governments, international bodies, universities, media, and civil society have implemented measures to protect the planet. Despite these collective efforts, the crisis persists, continuously deepening and causing irreversible disturbances. The speaker emphasised that lives, well-being, mental health, and disease resilience have all faced substantial threats due to the continuously increasing temperature each year over the past five years.
Global land degradation is rapidly increasing, leaving the country vulnerable to security threats. The detrimental effects of droughts, floods, storms, and other extreme climate events are pushing towards irreversible consequences. Mr. Barau firmly stressed this point. Similarly, Prof. Sagir Adamu Abbas, the university’s Vice Chancellor, expressed his admiration for the organisers and emphasised that this conference serves as a powerful catalyst for change. It is not a mere academic exercise but a resounding call to action.
The ongoing environmental concerns have been noted for two decades.
To achieve a world where environmental sustainability evolves from a mere ambition to a tangible existence, it is imperative to tap into the potential of faith. By utilising the influential position as a distinguished Nigerian institution of education and research, they pledge to unite knowledge with action and faith with practicality. According to him, it is their belief that by working together, engaging in meaningful conversations, and upholding the fundamental values of Islam, they have the potential to construct a future that is fair and enduring, accommodating the needs of future generations.
Also, Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed, the event’s chairman, emphasised that concerns about the environment have been an ongoing subject for more than two decades. Multiple global and local meetings have been dedicated to tackling sustainability issues. Nevertheless, he strongly cautioned against disregarding the environment as it has severe consequences for human welfare. During the conference, Kamran Shez and Professor Omar Hasan Kasule delivered captivating keynote presentations, delving into the intersection of the Qur’an, Sunnah, and the climate crisis, with a focus on transitioning from theological contemplation to practical implementation.
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Lastly, the preservation of environmental resources is crucial to secure the availability for the future. This holds significance as the planet has limited land, water, and wildlife supplies. By adopting sustainable practices, they can guarantee that upcoming generations will have access to the essential resources required for their survival. Moreover, sustainable methods build stronger community connections, enhance overall quality of life, and instil optimism for a brighter tomorrow. They can also help protect natural resources, mitigate and adapt to climate change, and promote biodiversity.
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