Ogooluwa Omole is an ecological researcher in innovative solutions for biodiversity, who is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology with a concentration in plant ecology. In this interview with HAKEEM GBADAMOSI, she speaks on her experience on agroforestry innovations, ecological research and environmental challenges in Nigeria.
What are your current academic pursuits and research focus and how has this journey shaped your career in biodiversity conservation and ecological research?
My academic journey has shaped my career in biodiversity conservation and ecological research. I earned a Bachelor’s in Forest Resources Management with Second-Class Upper honours from the University of Ibadan, where I developed a solid foundation in sustainable land management and environmental protection. My final-year research project, sponsored by the Federal Government focused on the floristic composition and diversity of a restored community forest in Ekiti State. The findings of this research were published in a peer-reviewed journal and adopted by the Federal Ministry of Environment in Nigeria for replication in other states, underscoring its real-world impact. At Western Illinois University (WIU), I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology with a concentration in plant ecology. My research explores the ecological characteristics of various woodland habitats and their impact on biodiversity. Specifically, I am investigating how vegetation structure and composition influence the dynamics of tick populations, which play a crucial role in the balance of ecosystems and the spread of vector-borne diseases.
Can you elaborate on your contributions to biodiversity conservation in Nigeria, mainly through your work with the Community Herbal Heritage Centre and the Federal Ministry of Environment?
One of my most significant contributions to biodiversity conservation was my research on the floristic composition and diversity of the restored Community Herbal Heritage Centre in Otun-Ekiti, Nigeria. The project assessed the role of community participation in forest conservation and provided actionable recommendations, such as silvicultural interventions, perimeter fencing, and community engagement strategies. These findings, published in the Applied Tropical Agriculture Journal (Volume 23, Issue 1, Pages 97-104), were adopted by the Federal Ministry of Environment and have influenced sustainability practices across Nigeria. The centre now serves as a model for biodiversity conservation, preserving Nigeria’s flora while offering opportunities for scientific research, environmental education, and climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration. My work has ensured that this community-driven initiative remains a valuable conservation and sustainable development resource.
At the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) where you interned, what innovative approaches did you bring to agroforestry and tree conservation, and how have these contributed to long-term environmental sustainability?
At IITA, I contributed to creating the Manual of Propagation for Nigerian Trees, a resource that remains invaluable for conservationists, landscapers, and reforestation projects. I applied innovative propagation techniques to improve the germination rates of endangered and indigenous tree species. The Forest Centre adopted these techniques as best practices, showcasing my ability to drive impactful, science-based solutions. I also participated in establishing a Tree Heritage Park, planting over 50 species of threatened indigenous trees to safeguard Nigeria’s biodiversity. By collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, I helped promote long-term environmental sustainability through seed collection, treatment for proper storage, and environmental education programs for schoolchildren. These initiatives continue to have a lasting impact on forest conservation in Nigeria.
At the Leventis Foundation Nigeria, your work focused on training young farmers in sustainable practices. How did your innovative strategies empower local communities while addressing pressing ecological challenges?
Through the Leventis Foundation Nigeria, I trained 243 young farmers on sustainable land management practices such as agro-silviculture, silvopastoral systems, and apiculture. These systems were designed to tackle ecological challenges like deforestation, soil degradation, and food insecurity while offering farmers economic benefits. By integrating these sustainable practices, the farmers enhanced their agricultural productivity, mitigated climate change impacts, and improved biodiversity. This initiative empowered local communities to adopt environmentally friendly practices and achieve sustainable livelihoods. My ability to design and implement innovative strategies demonstrates my commitment to creating lasting solutions for environmental and social challenges.
As a researcher in plant ecology at Western Illinois University, how does your thesis work contribute to addressing critical public health and environmental management challenges in the United States?
My thesis research focuses on plant ecology. I explicitly examine the ecological characteristics of mature oak-hickory and early successional woodlands to understand how vegetation structure and composition influence tick populations, which are key vectors of diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. This research explores how habitat restoration and sustainable land management can mitigate the risks of tick-borne diseases, contributing to biodiversity conservation, ecological balance, and overall environmental sustainability in the United States.
How has your tree planting initiative contributed to Nigeria’s environmental restoration and watershed management?
As part of an erosion and watershed management project in Ekiti State, Nigeria, I supervised the planting of 80,000 indigenous trees to restore degraded areas. These trees are critical in soil conservation, watershed protection, and biodiversity enrichment. By identifying and demarcating degraded areas for tree planting, I contributed to reversing the adverse effects of land degradation and promoting ecological resilience. This large-scale reforestation initiative has enhanced environmental restoration and mitigated climate change’s impacts by acting as carbon sink. It is a model for integrating reforestation into watershed management, demonstrating how targeted interventions can address environmental and socio-economic challenges.
How do you envision your expertise contributing to global environmental goals and advancing biodiversity conservation in the United States?
With a proven track record in conservation, agroforestry, and academic research, I am well-equipped to contribute to global environmental goals and advance biodiversity conservation in the United States. My experience in Nigeria, where I led large-scale reforestation projects, introduced agroforestry innovations and promoted community-driven conservation, has provided me with a solid foundation for addressing complex environmental challenges. In the US, my research focuses on understanding the ecological dynamics of woodland habitats and their influence on tick populations, intending to develop targeted strategies to reduce the spread of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. By combining my practical expertise with my academic research, I am committed to enhancing ecosystem resilience and promoting sustainable land management practices that address environmental and public health challenges in the US.
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