World Oceans Day: NIOMR, GMES & Africa, NATCOM, others call for protection, preservation of oceans
All is now set for the celebration of World Oceans Day in Lagos, Nigeria.
Find below a detailed statement sent to DAYLIGHTNG by Dr Regina Folorunsho,
Director (NIOMR), about this year’s special event, which theme is: “The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods”
The World Oceans Day is celebrated 8 June every year. In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly officially resolved that 8 June would be designated by the UN as ‘World Oceans Day’. Prior to 2008, the 8 June has blossomed into a massive occasion drawing people from all over the world to play their part in protecting the great blue that surrounds us following its first declaration at Global Forum in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992
Oceans as we know, are the lungs of our planet. They cover over 70% of the planet and are our life source, supporting humanity’s sustenance and that of every other organism on earth. As UN noted, 90% of big fish populations are depleted, and 50% of coral reefs destroyed, humanity is taking more from the ocean than can be replenished. To protect and preserve the ocean and all it sustains, humanity must create a new balance, rooted in true understanding of the ocean and how we relate to it. We must build a connection to the ocean that is inclusive, innovative, and informed by lessons from the past. The purpose of the Day is to inform the public of the impact of human actions on the ocean, develop a worldwide movement of citizens for the ocean, and mobilize and unite the world’s population on a project for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans.
This year’s theme is “the Ocean: Life and Livelihoods”. The theme is especially relevant to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, which will run from 2021 to 2030. The Decade will strengthen international cooperation to develop the scientific research and innovative technologies that can connect ocean science with the needs of society. As a call to conservation action, protecting at least 30% of our blue planet for a healthy ocean and climate by 2030 is the global target.
The Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR)in collaboration with the Global Monitoring for Environment and Security & Africa (GMES and Africa), the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM) and the UNESCO-IOC Nigeria National Stakeholders in support of the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria, is raising the flag on the importance of maintaining the health of our blue planet. You can help to play a key role in the restoration of our ocean health.
Dr Regina Folorunsho
Director (NIOMR)
National Focal Point (UNESCO – IOC)
