Former VP Osinbajo Gets New Appointment

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has appointed former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo as the new president of its Board of Trustees (BoT).

The appointment was announced on Wednesday during the foundation’s annual general meeting held in Lagos.

Osinbajo takes over from Philip Asiodu, who stepped down after serving as president of the board for more than 25 years.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chairperson of the foundation’s National Executive Council (NEC), R.I.B. Adebiyi, praised Asiodu for his years of service and his contributions to environmental conservation and the growth of the organisation.

She said his leadership was defined by sound judgement, long-term planning and a strong commitment to protecting the environment. According to her, he leaves behind a stronger foundation with a clearer direction for forest restoration and conservation.

Asiodu, a former Chief Economic Adviser to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, has been a long-time supporter of Nigeria’s goal of achieving 25 per cent forest cover and the Great Green Wall initiative.

The foundation said his leadership helped strengthen its work in habitat protection, community-based conservation and environmental policy advocacy.

Adebiyi said Osinbajo’s experience in public service and climate policy makes him well suited to lead the foundation into its next phase.

She said the organisation was pleased to welcome the former vice-president as president of its Board of Trustees, noting that his leadership of Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan and his commitment to climate action and sustainable development prepared him for the role.

According to her, his experience at the highest level of government would help the foundation expand its impact on environmental protection and sustainable development.

Osinbajo served as Nigeria’s vice-president from 2015 to 2023. During his time in office, he led the development of Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, which aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2060. He also chaired the National Council on Climate Change.

The foundation said he played an active role in promoting the inclusion of forests, biodiversity and natural capital in national development policies.

Adebiyi added that under Osinbajo’s leadership, the NCF plans to strengthen collaboration with government institutions, private sector organisations and local communities to broaden conservation efforts across Nigeria.

She said the leadership change comes as the foundation prepares to expand programmes across the country aimed at protecting forests, wetlands, wildlife and the livelihoods that depend on them.