A renowned Nigerian Environmentalist, Dr Nnimmo Bassey, has been awarded the prestigious Wallenberg Medal for his outstanding humanitarian service.
A statement on Wednesday in Benin by Kome Odhomor, Media/Communication Lead of the Home of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) said Bassey was the first Nigerian and fifth African to receive the honour.
She said Bassey, who is the Executive Director of HOMEF, had joined the distinguished list of past recipients, including Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Denis Mukwege.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Wallenberg Medal recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional humanitarian service, particularly in protecting the vulnerable and oppressed.
In his acceptance speech titled: “We Are Relatives,” Bassey stressed the importance of “love, humility, dignity, and respect” in creating a livable future for all beings.
The awardee, who received the award at the University of Michigan, United States on Tuesday, also underscored the need to address the root causes of environmental crises, rather than just treating the symptoms.
According to Odhomor, Bassey’s work has focused on environmental justice, and he has authored several influential books on the subject, including “To Cook a Continent” and “Oil Politics.”
“His poetry has also inspired resistance and hope in many,” he said.
In the statement, the Swedish Ambassador to the United States, Urban Ahlin, was also quoted as commending Bassey’s dedication to humanity, urging others to follow his example.
In her congratulatory, HOMEF’s Director of Programmes, Joyce Brown, congratulated Bassey on his achievement, highlighting his exceptional work and contributions to global recognition.
She said the award showcased HOMEF’s important work and the role of cultural tools like poetry in healing a hurting world. (NAN)
