The First Bank Auditorium at the University of Ibadan buzzed with energy on Wednesday as forestry professionals, students, and nature lovers gathered for the 5th Faculty Lecture of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources. The lecture, titled “Where Taxonomy Meets Silviculture: Pathways to Sustainable Forestry in Nigeria,” was presented by experienced forestry expert, Dr. A. O. Onefeli, from the Department of Forest Production and Products.
The event was hosted by Professor Adejoke O. Akinyele, Dean of the Faculty. She described Dr. Onefeli as “a man deeply rooted in knowledge, committed to growing Nigeria’s forest future.” She highlighted the urgent need for science-based forestry solutions as the country confronts serious challenges from climate change, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity.
In his lecture, Dr. Onefeli stressed that Nigeria’s fight against deforestation must explore the intersection between taxonomy and silviculture, emphasizing their complementary roles in addressing Nigeria’s forest management challenges. “From morphological and anatomical studies to molecular techniques, it is evident that taxonomic research provides the necessary foundation for silvicultural decisions, conservation and restoration, he stated”.
He explained that silvicultural interventions for commercial timber production or ecosystem restoration, must be taxonomically informed in Nigeria and beyond.
The lecture included fieldwork stories, which showcased the importance of documenting and protecting what remains. He called for more taxonomic institutionalization, herbaria and DNA laboratories, plant authentication, applied taxonomic research and encourage multidisciplinary collaboration.
Afterwards, the Head of the Department of Forest Production and Products, Professor A.O Omole who doubles as Pro. Chancellor of LAUTECH, added that Dr. Onefeli has sacrificed so much to contribute to research in Nigeria.
Attendees left feeling inspired, with many calling the lecture a necessary reminder of the strong bond between people, trees, and the future of our environment.