Redeemer’s University Commitment to Protecting and Monitoring Aquatic Ecosystems

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Redeemer’s University, Ede, through its world-class research hub — the Africa Centre of Excellence for Water and Environmental Research (ACEWATER) — is pioneering initiatives that safeguard Nigeria’s freshwater and aquatic ecosystems. The University’s work reflects a structured, evidence-based plan to minimise physical, chemical, and biological alterations of aquatic ecosystems while simultaneously monitoring their ecological health to preserve biodiversity and sustain livelihoods.



Institutional Commitment to Aquatic Ecosystem Health

Redeemer’s University recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, the “One Health” approach, as a central philosophy guiding its academic and operational agenda.

Through ACEWATER and relevant departments such as Biological Sciences, Environmental Management, and Public Health, the University actively works to:

  1. Reduce pollutants that disrupt aquatic systems, including antimicrobials, heavy metals, microplastics, and agricultural chemicals.
  2. Monitor and assess the physical, chemical, and biological quality of water bodies in surrounding communities.
  3. Collaborate with local and regional authorities to restore degraded aquatic environments and protect biodiversity.
  4. Engage in long-term monitoring of both surface and groundwater systems, identifying risks and implementing practical interventions.


Monitoring Chemical and Physical Parameters

ACEWATER’s research teams carry out routine assessments of chemical contaminants and nutrient loading in both surface and groundwater. Recent studies have examined:

  1. Antimicrobial residues and resistance genes in water systems, providing evidence of pollution from human and agricultural sources.
  2. Toxicological risks of mycotoxins and heavy metals in drinking water across South-West Nigeria.
  3. Paraben distribution and health implications in local aquatic environments (2023). These investigations establish scientific baselines and inform mitigation strategies for water safety and ecosystem protection.


Monitoring Biological Indicators and Biodiversity

Beyond chemical profiling, Redeemer’s University integrates biological assessments using species composition, diversity indices, and bio-indicators. For instance:

  1. The study on freshwater odonate assemblages in Ipogun, Ondo State (2022) used dragonflies and damselflies as bio-indicators of aquatic health, providing evidence on ecosystem stability and pollution levels.
  2. The RUN Ecology and Biodiversity Research Unit collaborates with ACEWATER on mapping microbial and invertebrate communities in freshwater systems to track biological alterations caused by pollution or climate change.
  3. Partnerships with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and the Osun State Environmental Agency facilitate access to regional biodiversity and hydrology data for continuous monitoring.


Technological Innovation and Preventive Measures

The University promotes sustainable practices and technological interventions to prevent future degradation:

  1. Adoption of low-impact irrigation and wastewater reuse technologies that reduce runoff and pollution.
  2. Use of real-time water quality sensors for monitoring dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and microbial load.
  3. Research on biofiltration systems and constructed wetlands to naturally treat water before discharge.
  4. Campus-level initiatives for reducing chemical discharge from laboratories through safe waste segregation and treatment protocols.


Engagement with Industry and Policy Bodies

Redeemer’s University engages with both governmental agencies and private sector industries to develop evidence-based guidelines that minimise industrial and agricultural pollution.

  1. Through ACEWATER, RUN contributes research data to the National Water Resources Institute and the African Water Association.
  2. Collaborative research with World Bank-supported ACE Impact programmes strengthens institutional capacity to develop environmental management frameworks for sustainable industry practices.
  3. The University’s experts also provide policy advisory services on environmental regulations, ecosystem restoration, and pollution control.
  4. These partnerships ensure that Redeemer’s University’s scientific findings are translated into action, not just within academia but across Nigeria’s environmental governance landscape.


Water Discharge and Ecosystem Restoration Practices

At the operational level, Redeemer’s University maintains water-quality standards that align with Nigeria’s National Environmental (Sanitation and Waste Control) Regulations (2009) and WHO Water Safety Guidelines (2022).

  1. The institution’s Environmental Management Committee oversees safe discharge of treated water and laboratory effluents.
  2. Effluent samples are periodically tested for pH, BOD, COD, microbial load, and metal concentrations to ensure they meet discharge thresholds.
  3. The University also promotes rainwater harvesting and stormwater management systems to mitigate surface runoff that could impact nearby aquatic habitats.


Evidence of Continuous Monitoring

Redeemer’s University’s research outputs are accessible through:

  1. Peer-reviewed publications (RSC Environmental Science, Environmental Advances, ScienceDirect).
  2. ACEWATER’s project repository (https://acewater.run.edu.ng) — hosting reports on water-quality monitoring, biodiversity assessment, and capacity-building projects.
  3. SDG Office reports (2021–2024) highlighting institutional and community-based environmental initiatives.


Conclusion

Redeemer’s University’s long-term goal is to protect aquatic ecosystems not just as natural resources, but as vital systems supporting life, health, and livelihoods. Through a blend of cutting-edge research, industry engagement, and community partnerships, the University continues to:

  1. Minimise physical, chemical, and biological alterations of aquatic ecosystems.
  2. Monitor the health and biodiversity of freshwater systems.
  3. Develop technologies that enable industries to reduce their ecological footprints.
  4. Promote public awareness and policy alignment for water sustainability in Nigeria and beyond.

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