Global green battle: Advocating to address critical environmental issues

In an era where environmental challenges are becoming increasingly complex and interconnected, Abdulahi Opejin emerges as a beacon of hope and a standout figure, making significant moves to address contemporary environmental issues. Abdulahi exemplifies a rare combination, having made a remarkable transition from a successful urban planning career in Nigeria’s burgeoning real estate sector to transitioned to environmental science research in the United States, where he focused on addressing critical environmental issues such as flooding and air pollution.

His journey has remarkably spanned practical projects and academics, holding a master’s degree in urban and Regional Planning from the University of Lagos and a bachelor of science from Osun State University, Osogbo.

Setting out early as a dignified environment-conscious property developer

Abdulahi embarked on his professional career as an urban planner at Folkland Property Development Company, where he played a crucial role in estate planning, development, and management. His role witnessed promotion to oversee resource allocation, planning and designing of estates, regulatory requirements, enforcing building code compliance, and mitigating risks. As the head of the planning and design department, he masterminded the Planning and Design of various estate development projects. His instrumental role in the company was crucial in the efficient running of planning and design activities for proposed projects, a factor that has significantly impacted the company’s profit.

Abdulahi’s unwavering commitment to urban planning and estate development bestowed upon him an Honorary Merit Award for the best employee of the year, which is a testament to the profound contribution he has made in this vital domain. This accolade underscores not only his dedication but also the tangible difference he has brought to developing sustainable estates that are conductive and habitable for living, working, and recreation.

Prior to joining Folkland PDC, Abdulahi served as a GIS Analyst at Metronome Consults in Lagos. There, he contributed to various urban planning projects, such as the mapping and vectorization of the Kosofe Local Government Area, using his skills in geospatial analysis. This experience laid the groundwork for his future academic pursuits, demonstrating the power of geospatial technologies in urban planning and environmental management.

Becoming a front-runner as an environmental scientist with diverse experience and well ground research

Abdulahi’s transition from the industrial sector to environmental science research was not just a career move but a reflection of his growing awareness of the larger-scale environmental challenges facing the world. His research on flood vulnerability assessment and flood risk preparedness in Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos, Nigeria, revealed a staggering fact that over 35% of the residential areas are at a very high risk of flooding. 

This research by Abdulai Opejin was conducted using the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing to analyze factors like elevation, drainage density, land use, and soil type to reveal the level and propensity of flood in flood-prone areas. The findings of his research revealed that residential areas in Eti Osa LGA, which make up a significant portion of the land use, are particularly at risk of socio-economic losses due to flooding. The research found that low-lying coastal areas, particularly those below sea level, are most susceptible to flooding. Sandy soils, which cover about 75% of Eti-Osa, contribute to flood risk by allowing easy water infiltration, and the conversion of natural vegetation, agricultural land, and wetlands to residential areas has decreased water infiltration and increased surface runoff, exacerbating flood risks.

To address these challenges, Abdulahi recommended a multi-pronged approach to flood risk management. This includes both structural measures, such as improving drainage systems and constructing flood barriers, and non-structural measures, such as early warning systems and public education on proper waste disposal. His research also emphasizes the need for better compliance with building regulations and planning standards, particularly in low-lying coastal areas. He recommended stricter enforcement of planning standards and regulations in flood-prone zones to mitigate risks. Also suggests acquiring vulnerable areas to serve as stormwater sinks and discourage further development. With Lagos facing increasing flood threats due to climate change and rapid urbanization, the findings provide crucial data for urban planners and policymakers to improve flood preparedness and protect lives and property.

Setting horizon to address environmental issues globally 

Recognizing the need for advanced skills and a global perspective to tackle these issues effectively, Abdulahi made the bold decision to further his studies in the United States, where he completed a Master of Science program in Geography and Geographic Information Systems certificate at East Carolina University, focusing on air pollution exposure assessment and flooding mitigation, tackling these wicked environmental problems using geospatial analytics methods. Abdulahi’s research approach demonstrates that conventional approaches used in air pollution exposure assessment research, which rely solely on outdoor air quality data, may significantly generate bias, and the bias, in turn, might affect public health policy and make it difficult to understand the association between air pollution and health outcome. 

Like every other contemporary researcher, he advocates for the use of GPS-enabled portable air monitors to capture air pollution data from various microenvironments that people navigate in their daily lives to reduce bias in exposure assessment studies. Abdulahi is pushing the boundaries of environmental science to uncover hidden disparities in air pollution exposure among different socioeconomic groups. His work not only contributes to a more nuanced understanding of personal exposure to air pollutants but also has important implications for developing targeted interventions and policies to mitigate health risks and environmental inequalities by providing valuable insights for policymakers and health officials in developing more effective strategies to combat air pollution and its associated health risks. Abdulahi’s research exemplifies the critical role of cutting-edge environmental science in addressing complex societal challenges and promoting equitable public health outcomes.

As a doctoral researcher in the Department of Coastal Studies, his research, underpinned by a robust foundation in geospatial analytics, seeks to illuminate critical environmental challenges through an interdisciplinary lens. With a particular focus on flood mitigation, air quality, Environmental Justice, and Spatial Data Science. His work promises to advance understanding of these complex issues and inform evidence-based solutions.

Abdulahi ‘s commitment to sharing knowledge and contributing to the scientific community is evident in his participation in prestigious conferences. He has presented his research findings at the American Association of Geographers (AAG) Annual Conference and the Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. ESRI conference, platforms that bring together leading researchers and practitioners in geography and GIS. These presentations showcase Abdulahi ‘s research and contribute to the broader dialogue on environmental challenges and potential solutions.

Beyond his research, Abdulahi has taken on roles that demonstrate his commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers. He has served as a judge at various competitions, including the First Robotics Competition and the North Carolina Science Engineering Fair Conference. These roles allow him to inspire and guide young minds, potentially influencing future researchers who will continue the important work of addressing environmental challenges.

As climate change continues to exacerbate flooding, air pollution, and other environmental hazards worldwide, researchers like Abdulahi, who can draw on diverse experiences and skill sets, are increasingly valuable. His experience provides insights into the unique challenges faced by rapidly urbanizing areas in the Global South, while his current research in the United States allows him to engage with cutting-edge methodologies and technologies.

What distinguishes Abdulahi is not just his visionary perspective but also his exceptional professional acumen. His commitment to creating environments that balance growth with ecological responsibility has positioned him as a driving force for positive change. As we cast our gaze toward the future, Abdulahi’s professional acumen remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders.