The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced its plan to remove and replace desert trees that are causing damage to public infrastructure across the territory.
During the reforestation stages of developing the capital city, the Enterolobium trees, which are meant for desert areas and have deep roots, were mistakenly planted.
Engr. Ferdinand Ezeoha, the Director of Engineering Service at the Federal Capital Development Authority, revealed this during the symbolic tree planting event organized by Women in Energy, Oil, and Gas on Monday.
He confirmed that while tree planting has been a part of the city’s infrastructure development, incorrect choices of trees were made from the outset.
Ezeoha expressed concern that some trees planted in the early stages of the FCT’s development have been affecting road asphalt in areas like Maitama and Jabi districts and emphasized the need for their immediate removal and replacement.
Related Posts
He explained, “At the beginning of Abuja, unfortunately, the kind of trees that were planted are now destroying our infrastructure. If you go to places like the Maitama district and Jabi district, you would see that a lot of trees are now affecting our asphalt. There was a mistake right from the beginning regarding the type of trees being planted, and we’ve decided to correct that now by planting trees whose roots will not damage our infrastructure.”
He further elaborated that the Green Verge, the area between the asphalt region and the walkway, was designated for tree planting as part of the city’s infrastructural provision.
The Director of Parks and Recreation at FCT, Isaiah Ukpana, expressed optimism that the trees donated by the women’s group will support the FCTA’s effort to replace 20,000 trees in three selected districts: Katampe, Wuye, and Guzape.
“We started this exercise during the World Environment Day to combat deforestation. We then proceeded to Wuye district for tree planting, and now we are in the Guzape district to continue the exercise. We hope to plant 20,000 trees in the three selected districts, including Katampe extension, and we have made significant progress in this regard as we continue our efforts,” said Ukpana.
He added that the administration has a sustainable strategy to ensure the newly planted trees survive environmental challenges and human impact. Measures include providing water tankers for irrigation, applying necessary chemicals, and encouraging residents to value and protect trees as they bring people together.
The administration will continue to raise awareness among citizens about the importance of tree conservation and discourage actions that harm trees.
