Nigeria Launches One Million Tree-Planting Campaign

The Federal Government of Nigeria inaugurated a one million tree-planting campaign at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna, aimed at addressing climate change, desertification, and biodiversity loss across the country. The initiative is a partnership involving the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and the NDA, which also includes the establishment of a biodiversity conservation center.

Balarab Lawal, the Minister of Environment, and Abubakar Buba, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Environment, described the project as a landmark environmental intervention with significant ecological and socio-economic benefits. The campaign is crucial for tackling environmental challenges in Kaduna, which faces advancing desertification and deforestation.

The project aims to create a self-sustaining forest ecosystem rather than monoculture plantations, enhancing biodiversity and wildlife protection. Ismail Zubairu, the Chief Executive Officer of AFC, emphasized the organization's commitment to environmental sustainability and the importance of tree planting for future generations.

The initiative also includes plans for conservation research, environmental education, and green job creation.