By Tracy Ohovwore
The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) organized a one-day book reading session on October 3, 2025, at its office in BDPA, Benin City.
The event featured Prof. Nduka Otiono, who led a discussion on using artistic expression to advocate for environmental protection.
Prof. Otiono, reading from his poetry collections, highlighted the importance of speaking out against environmental degradation.
He used the COVID-19 lockdown as a case study, noting how nature rejuvenated during the period of restricted movement. He emphasized the need to rebalance human priorities, focusing on the often-overlooked aspects of nature, such as flowers, birdsong, and green spaces, which have been neglected in favor of urbanization and corporate pursuits.
The speaker stressed that climate policies alone are insufficient and that creative expressions, like poetry and art, are necessary tools for environmental advocacy. He noted that art can heal, suspend grief, and raise awareness about environmental dangers.
Prof. Otiono appreciated the beauty of nature, reflecting on how balance and harmony once existed between humans and the environment. He emphasized that stories, music, and art keep spirits alive and can be powerful means of advocating for environmental protection.
Speaking at the event, Nnimmo Bassey, Executive Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), emphasized the importance of environmental protection during the book reading session.
He urged participants to discontinue activities that harm the environment, highlighting the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and nature while stressing that achieving balance is crucial for creating a safer, better world.
The event aimed to reignite artistic advocacy for environmental protection, highlighting the importance of using creative expression to address pressing environmental issues.
