M. Teresa Lawrence introduced plans this week at the Nigeria Diaspora Economic Conference (NIDEC) in Toronto for the Sanctuary of Butterflies and Library Research Center, a proposed conservation, education, and research initiative to be established in Nigeria.
Lawrence, President and Executive Director of The Trueness Project, presented the proposed center as a resource for biodiversity preservation, ecological research, education, and international collaboration, with opportunities for students, researchers, conservation partners, and institutions engaged in the study and protection of natural ecosystems.
The Toronto visit also included a meeting with Dr. Adeniyi Tinubu focused on the initiative’s development in Nigeria. Discussion centered on conservation, scientific research, education, sustainable development, and the partnerships needed to advance the project.
Lawrence identified several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as part of the initiative’s broader goals, including quality education, climate action, life on land, and global partnerships. The proposed center is intended to connect conservation with research and learning while supporting Nigeria’s participation in international environmental efforts.
Lawrence described the sanctuary as reaching beyond its role as a physical space, positioning it instead as a statement about Nigeria’s capacity to lead on conservation while opening the door to research, education, and international partnership.
Funding and strategic partnerships will form part of the project’s next stage. Lawrence plans to approach the Dangote Foundation, the African Development Bank, UNESCO, and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education regarding potential support and collaboration.
Dr. Tinubu expressed support for the initiative and offered to assist with introductions to relevant government agencies and private-sector leaders in Nigeria, creating opportunities for additional discussions as the proposal develops. Lawrence characterized that support as a meaningful step toward turning the initiative into a lasting resource for Nigeria and future generations.
Participation at NIDEC placed the conservation proposal within a wider conversation about Nigerian development and international partnership. The conference provided an opportunity to consider how environmental stewardship, scientific research, education, and collaboration can contribute to long-term national and community development.
The proposed sanctuary also reflects the butterfly-centered work associated with The Trueness Project, where the butterfly has served as a symbol of transformation, purpose, and positive change. In Nigeria, the Sanctuary of Butterflies and Library Research Center would give that theme a physical conservation and research focus through biodiversity protection, education, and scientific inquiry.
About M. Teresa Lawrence
M. Teresa Lawrence is a best-selling author, lawyer, educator, advocate, and President and Executive Director of The Trueness Project. Lawrence’s work includes initiatives focused on children, leadership, education, purpose, resilience, and community development. The Trueness Project develops programs intended to encourage personal growth while supporting broader social and educational impact.
