Award spurs call for national reawakening as NESREA director urges shared responsibility

ABIODUN TAIWO, ABEOKUTA

A renewed call for national responsibility and resilience took centre stage as Director, Lagos Liason Office of National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Dr. Jonathan Sylvanus Dajal, urged Nigerians to embrace collective action toward rebuilding the nation’s morale and economy.

Dajal made the remarks while receiving an award from City Scope Africa at the 2026 African Circular Business and Environmental Sustainability Conference and Awards held in Abeokuta.

The high-profile event, which also featured the unveiling of a special sustainability magazine, brought together stakeholders across environmental, business, and policy sectors to deliberate on sustainable development in Africa.

Speaking shortly after receiving the recognition, Dajal described the award as more than a personal honour, noting that it represents a broader call for more dedication and commitment.

According to him, Nigeria’s future environmental prosperity depends largely on the willingness of its people to act responsibly and support government initiatives aimed at economic and environmental sustainability.

“Our heritage defines us, but our future depends on the work we do today,” Dajal said, stressing that the recognition should serve as a morale booster for Nigerians striving to overcome present challenges.

He emphasised that while government policies on environmental protection play a critical role in shaping national direction, citizens must also take ownership of their responsibilities in everyday life.

Also speaking, the Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya pointed out that seemingly minor personal habits, including spending patterns and lifestyle choices, can collectively influence the nation’s economic stability.

He noted that moral discipline remains a key ingredient for national development, warning that without a strong ethical foundation, progress would remain elusive.

“Government’s role is to steer the ship and implement sound policies, but citizens must support those efforts by upholding high moral standards,” he added.

He acknowledged the current economic pressures facing many Nigerians, describing the situation as a period that demands resilience and prudent resource management.

Drawing from personal experience, Oresanya said he has learned to manage limited resources effectively, encouraging others to adopt similar strategies in navigating difficult times.

He further stressed the importance of unity, urging Nigerians to see themselves as active participants in the nation-building process rather than passive observers.

“We must ensure that we are all contributing to the solution,” he said, reinforcing the need for shared responsibility across all levels of society.

Participants at the conference echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the role of environmental sustainability in driving long-term economic growth across Africa.

Experts at the gathering also called for stronger collaboration between public institutions, private sector players, and civil society organizations to address pressing environmental challenges.

The event featured panel discussions on economy models, climate action, and innovative approaches to waste management and resource efficiency.

Organisers noted that the conference aims to foster dialogue and inspire actionable solutions that align with global sustainability goals.

The unveiling of the special magazine was described as a platform to showcase success stories, policy insights, and emerging trends in environmental sustainability across the continent.

For many attendees, Dajal’s message stood out as a timely reminder of the power of collective action in shaping Nigeria’s future.

As the conference concluded, stakeholders expressed optimism that sustained advocacy and responsible citizenship would pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous nation.