The ocean is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth. It is home to countless species of fish, plants, corals, and microorganisms that play a vital role in sustaining life on our planet. However, this rich biodiversity is under severe threat due to human activities such as overfishing, plastic pollution, oil spills, climate change, and coastal development. In response to this crisis, Marine Biodiversity Restoration has become a global priority—and a mission that the Lekan Bakare Foundation (LBF) is proud to support.
Understanding Marine Biodiversity Restoration
Marine biodiversity restoration involves a range of activities aimed at reversing the damage done to marine ecosystems and helping them recover to a healthy, functional state. This includes efforts such as restoring coral reefs, replanting mangroves, cleaning up polluted habitats, reducing overfishing, and protecting endangered species.
Why is this important? The health of the ocean directly affects food security, climate stability, and economic development. Oceans absorb around 25% of carbon dioxide emissions and produce more than half of the world’s oxygen. When marine biodiversity is lost, these crucial services are compromised.
The Nigerian Context
Nigeria is blessed with a vast coastline stretching over 850 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal area supports a variety of marine and coastal ecosystems, including mangroves, estuaries, and coral reefs. These ecosystems are not only critical for environmental balance but also for the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians who depend on fishing and coastal tourism.
Sadly, Nigeria’s marine ecosystems are under significant pressure. Oil exploration, plastic waste, illegal fishing, and unregulated coastal development have degraded many marine habitats. According to environmental studies, more than 70% of Nigeria’s mangrove forests have been lost in certain regions. This not only affects marine life but also increases the vulnerability of coastal communities to flooding and erosion.
How LBF is Promoting Marine Biodiversity Restoration
At the Lekan Bakare Foundation, we believe that marine restoration is not just the responsibility of governments and scientists—it requires the active participation of communities, youth, and civil society. Our environmental advocacy initiatives are built on three core pillars: awareness, action, and accountability.
Education and Awareness:
Through school programs, webinars, and local events, we educate young Nigerians about the importance of marine ecosystems and the urgent need for restoration. We believe that awareness is the first step toward meaningful change.
Community Engagement:
We work closely with coastal communities to implement clean-up drives, promote sustainable fishing practices, and support mangrove replanting efforts. These local partnerships are essential for lasting impact.
Policy Advocacy:
LBF advocates for stronger environmental protection laws, better enforcement of marine conservation policies, and greater investment in ecological restoration projects at both the state and national levels.
What Can You Do?
Restoring marine biodiversity is a task for all. You don’t need to live by the ocean to make a difference. Here’s how you can contribute:
Reduce single-use plastics that often end up in our waterways.
Support eco-friendly brands and sustainable seafood sources.
Join or support clean-up campaigns in your area.
Educate others about the importance of marine ecosystems.
Advocate for policies that protect Nigeria’s marine environment.
A Shared Responsibility
Marine biodiversity restoration is a long-term investment in the health of our planet and the wellbeing of future generations. It requires coordinated efforts among governments, NGOs, researchers, local communities, and everyday citizens.
At LBF, we are committed to being a voice for the ocean. We envision a Nigeria where marine life thrives, coastal communities are resilient, and the blue economy flourishes sustainably.
Join us in restoring what has been lost. Together, we can protect our oceans and secure a better future for all.