By: Femi-Adeniyi Joshua

The Zoological Garden, University of Ibadan on Friday, 4th October, 2024, commemorated 2024 World Animal Day.

The event, celebrated at the University of Ibadan for the first time, held at Zoology Lecture Theater, University of Ibadan.

The event had in attendance members of the Biodiversity Conservation Club, students of schools including the International School Ibadan, Mainspring college, Bodija International School, Bodija International College, Abadina College, Bode Amao Creche Nursery and Primary school and University of Ibadan staff school.

Professor A.O. Ayodele, who is the Director of Academic Planning and former Dean of the Faculty of Science read the goodwill messages of the Dean, Professor Dayo Shonibare and the Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale.

In her opening remarks, the Director of the University of Ibadan Zoological Garden, Professor Henrietta Awobode, welcomed everyone present and stressed on the need for more efforts to be put in place with regards to the conservation of wildlife.

Professor Awobode furthermore emphasized the importance of teaching young children about the necessity of taking care of the environment.

Professor Omonona Abosede from the Department of Wildlife and Ecotourism Management spoke on the need to prevent animals from going extinct, while reiterating that animals are valuable to humans and as such a responsibility from humans to them.

The keynote speaker, Professor Aina Adeogun, Professor of Hydrobiology, Fishery and Aquatic Toxicology at the Department of Zoology, University of Ibadan, spoke on the topic “Equity for Other Tenants in Nature”.

Professor Adeogun stated that every of the actions of humans has an effect on other species in the environment. She advocated for responsible use of the environment as it also serves as the habitat for other animals.

Professor Adeogun said that “we have a moral responsibility because we are the guardians and chief tenants of the planet”.

A question and answer session wherein different questions were asked about the University Zoological Garden was among the featured activities during the event.

The participants were taken on a tour of the Zoological Garden where a wide variety of animals were housed.

Immediately afterwards, a quiz competition which was moderated by members of the Biodiversity Conservation Club, was held for the Secondary schools in attendance. The schools involved given certificates of participation.

World Animal Day is celebrated on the fourth of October. It is held to celebrate the diversity of animal life in the world.