By Iniubong Sam
-The recognition highlights his contributions to environmental practice as Nigeria grapples with pollution, climate change and other environmental challenges.
Akwa Ibom-born environmental expert, Professor Joseph Legend Mfon, FNES, has been honoured as a Fellow of The Nigerian Environmental Society in recognition of his contributions to the Society.
The professional recognition was conferred during the Society’s 35th National Conference and 36th Annual General Meeting held in Benin City, Edo State, in October 2026. The recognition marks another milestone in Professor Mfon’s professional career, which spans environmental science, pollution management, environmental protection and sustainable development.
Professor Mfon serves as Country Director of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Network and Minister of Environment of the State of Birland. He is also the Managing Director of Quatenary International Company Limited, where his professional engagements include Environmental Impact Assessments, environmental auditing, ecological investigations, environmental monitoring and remediation assessments. His areas of practice extend to Environmental, Social and Governance advisory services, climate change mitigation, host community needs assessments and environmental compliance monitoring. These fields are central to identifying environmental risks, promoting responsible industrial operations and integrating environmental considerations into development planning.
His professional experience is particularly relevant to Nigeria’s Niger Delta, where environmental degradation continues to raise concerns about public health, livelihoods, agricultural productivity and access to clean water. The region’s experience with oil pollution and industrial activities underscores the importance of effective environmental monitoring, remediation and responsible natural resource management.
Professor Mfon’s work in environmental studies and host community development assessments reflects the importance of incorporating community needs into decisions affecting industrial operations and local development.
For Akwa Ibom State and the wider Niger Delta, environmental protection remains essential to safeguarding natural resources, supporting local livelihoods and ensuring that economic development does not come at the expense of ecological sustainability.
Professor Mfon obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and a Master of Science degree in Environmental Management from the University of Calabar. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Environmental Geology from the University of Benin and a PhD in Environmental and Analytical Technique from the University of Belfast, Northern Ireland. He also has an academic and professional association with Environmental Management at the University of Costa Rica.
His professional engagements have included keynote addresses at Nigeria’s 2019 World Environment Day celebration, the 2022 and 2023 World Peace Summits, and an international conference on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
In addition to his professional engagements, Professor Mfon has received distinctions from management, leadership and peace organisations, as well as honorary doctorate awards from institutions outside Nigeria.
Speaking on the significance of environmental practice, Professor Mfon highlighted the importance of protecting human lives, preserving ecosystems and promoting environmental responsibility for future generations. He expressed appreciation to the National President, National Executive Council, College of Fellows and members of the Nigerian Environmental Society for the recognition, describing it as an encouragement to continue contributing to environmental science and sustainable development.
Looking ahead, Professor Mfon is seeking to advance a 2027- 2030 Environmental Leadership and Sustainability Strategic Plan focused on research, environmental restoration, community development, professional mentorship and initiatives relating to the Sustainable Development Goals.
His priorities include promoting digital environmental monitoring, exploring the application of artificial intelligence in environmental management, strengthening climate resilience and encouraging inclusive approaches to environmental financing.
The fellowship adds another milestone to Professor Mfon’s professional career and provides an opportunity to deepen his engagement in environmental practice, knowledge sharing, mentorship and sustainable development advocacy.
