Public health experts have urged all levels of government to focus more on environmental cleanliness and hygiene. They warned that relying too much on vaccines cannot guarantee lasting good health.
The call came during the 10th National Conference on Environment and Health, organised by the Living Sciences Foundation at the University of Ilesa, Osun State. The two-day event gathered researchers, academics, and policymakers to discuss Nigeria’s growing health and environmental challenges.
Former Vice-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University and meteorology expert, Professor Debo Adeyewa, said good nutrition and a clean environment remain the strongest shields against diseases.
“God has provided everything that gives us immunity. The food we eat is medicine and a form of immunisation,” he said. “God has created immunity through the environment.”
He added that while vaccination is important, depending solely on it could be dangerous.
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“Vaccination is not bad, but it can be abused. We are not condemning vaccination; we are saying some processes can be misused,” Adeyewa explained.
He also pointed out that dirty water and poor sanitation are major causes of disease outbreaks. Therefore, he called for joint efforts to keep Nigeria’s environment clean and safe.
In his remarks, former Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Professor Dapo Asaju, emphasised the linked between health, environment, and morality.
“This conference reminds us that science must help heal a world that is sick,” Asaju said. “We need good people to do things the right way.”
President of the Living Sciences Foundation, Professor Joshua Ojo, stressed that environmental health problems cannot be solved in isolation.
“These issues are not something to be treated in silos,” he said. “That is why we believe in a joint approach that brings together all stakeholders.”
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Ojo also noted that public education and collaboration between government and citizens are key to lasting solutions.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, ICT Director Oladipo Folorunsho praised the organisers for hosting the event. He said it promotes awareness and practical action for a healthier environment.
“The goal is to make our environment friendly and promote healthy living,” Folorunsho said.
He added that the university practises a green culture, avoids trampling lawns, and promotes health education and sustainability across the campus.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
