His life is a source of inspiration for all who seek to create positive change. His courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to his values remind us that one person can indeed make a difference. He has shown us that no challenge is insurmountable when approached with passion and purpose
NEWTON Jibunoh’s life is a vivid testament to resilience, vision, and the relentless pursuit of solutions to humanity’s most pressing challenges. From his early years to his remarkable accomplishments in later life, he has dedicated himself to making the world a better place. His story is one that should not only be preserved but also emulated by generations to come.
With a courageous heart and a “can-do” spirit, Newton Jibunoh embarked on a mission many deemed “crazy and suicidal”: crossing the vast and perilous Sahara Desert to confront the growing threat of desertification. Alarmed by the encroachment of the desert into fertile lands and the devastating impact on communities, he set out on this daring expedition not once but three times. Each journey was a call to action, drawing global attention to the issue of desertification and its far-reaching consequences.
During his expeditions, Dr. Jibunoh uncovered startling realities. He discovered that 73% of Africa’s agricultural drylands were severely degraded, affecting food security and livelihoods. Globally, nearly 70% of the world’s drylands—3.6 billion hectares—were impacted by desertification, costing the global economy an estimated $42 billion annually. These findings fueled his resolve to address this environmental crisis and advocate for urgent solutions.
Newton’s passion for combating environmental issues took him far beyond Africa. He visited other deserts around the world, including the Gobi Desert in China and the deserts of Nevada and Arizona in the United States, to study their unique challenges and solutions. He further deepened his understanding by studying the science of desertification at Ben Gurion University in Israel. These experiences enriched his perspective and equipped him with the knowledge needed to tackle land degradation effectively.
His rallying cry, “Greening the Environment,” resonates wherever he goes. Newton believes climate change is no longer a debate but an urgent reality that demands immediate action. He consistently warns of nature’s response to human neglect through natural disasters such as erosion, droughts, tsunamis, and earthquakes. “Nature can live without man, but man cannot live without nature,” he often says—a profound truth that underscores the need to cherish and protect the environment.
In 2000, Newton founded the non-profit organization FADE (Fight against Desert Encroachment) to address Africa’s environmental challenges. FADE’s mission is to create platforms for Africa to assess its environmental issues and develop practical solutions. Recognized by global bodies such as the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Environment Programmed (UNEP), FADE has made significant strides in environmental advocacy. Through its initiatives, over 10,000 trees have been planted worldwide, contributing to the restoration of degraded lands.
Some of FADE’s landmark projects include the Mandela Gardens of 95 Trees, the Wall of Trees in Makoda, Kano, the Garden of 75 Trees in Lagos, and most recently, the Garden of 85 Trees in Asaba, which commemorated Newton’s 85th birthday. These projects serve as living monuments to his enduring commitment to a sustainable future.
Newton Jibunoh’s contributions extend beyond environmental advocacy. He has also made an indelible mark on arts and culture. Often referred to as the “Father of Art” in Nigeria, he founded Didi Museum in Lagos in 1983—the country’s first private museum. Didi Museum has since become a hub for artistic expression, providing a platform for artists to exhibit their work, nurturing creative talents, and celebrating African heritage.
Newton views art as more than a medium of expression; he sees it as a cultural bridge that connects past, present, and future generations. For him, art and culture are vital components of a society’s identity, reflecting its history, values, and aspirations. His dedication to the arts has not only enriched Nigeria’s cultural landscape but also inspired countless artists to pursue their dreams.
In the realm of education, Newton Jibunoh has been a steadfast advocate for access to quality learning. He believes that no nation can rise above the level of its education and that the youth, as future leaders, must be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to build a better tomorrow. Throughout his life, he has championed initiatives to improve education in Nigeria, placing countless students on scholarships and supporting schools in underserved communities.
Newton has also been a vocal advocate for effective leadership. In his writings, including the article “Leadership and Legacy,” he emphasizes the importance of creating a positive impact through meaningful contributions. Inspired by leaders like Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Nnamdi Azikiwe, he believes that leadership is about service, not self-aggrandizement.
According to Newton, true legacies are built through actions that uplift and empower others. He often critiques the tendency of some leaders to prioritize personal glory over societal progress. For him, leadership is about leaving a lasting impression through accomplishments that benefit the people and create a better future.
As Nigeria faces the growing displacement of communities due to environmental degradation, Newton Jibunoh reminds us of the urgent need for action. He frequently highlights the plight of thousands of displaced individuals and calls for sustainable solutions to address the root causes of this crisis.
Newton’s work has not gone unnoticed. His efforts have earned him recognition and respect both locally and internationally. Yet, he remains humble, driven not by accolades but by a genuine desire to make a difference. At 86 soon to be 87 in a day’s time, he continues to fight for a cleaner environment, stronger societies, and a safer world—not for himself but for future generations.
Newton Jibunoh’s life is a source of inspiration for all who seek to create positive change. His courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to his values remind us that one person can indeed make a difference. He has shown us that no challenge is insurmountable when approached with passion and purpose.
In the words of Newton Jibunoh, “Nature can live without man, but man cannot live without nature.” This profound truth is a call to action for all of us to treat the environment with the care and respect it deserves.
Newton Jibunoh is a man for all seasons—a pioneer, a visionary, and an unyielding force for good. His story is a reminder that greatness is not about titles or accolades but about the impact we leave on the world. His life’s work challenges us to dream, to act, and to leave the world better than we found it.
As Newton Jibunoh clocks 87, we celebrate not just his years but the incredible legacy of environmental stewardship he continues to build for humanity. May his wisdom and dedication to a greener planet inspire generations to rise to the challenges of environmental degradation, protect the earth’s resources, and create a future where nature thrives alongside humanity.
- Ms Okafor is a poet and content creator
