By Bisola Adeyemo
Rasak Kolawole Adekola; Overseeing Head of the Department of Forestry, Ministry of Environment on Wednesday said there should be a formation of foresters or tree clubs in all local communities within the satellite towns in the Federal Capital Territory.
He also said there should be distribution of free tree seedlings to Abuja residents and provision of technical support to plants.
Adekola said in a chat on Wednesday with NatureNews.
He said this would enable communities to involve in tree planting as well as curbing illegal felling of trees.
He tasked the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to escalate its urban forestry programs to include all satellite towns in the FCT.
He said “Tree planting was in line with Nigeria’s commitment to its obligation under the Paris agreement.
“Involving citizens in trees planting is part of moves to address the effects of climate change in the country. Local government areas in FCT should be able to prioritise tree planting in their annual budget.
Speaking on the impact of trees against climate change, Adekola said tress have the ability to absorb substantial amount of carbon and release oxygen in the same quantity to the atmosphere, thereby regulating atmospheric temperature and addressing global warming.
“Involving residents and communities in planting trees is very important. From the grassroots awareness creation to Publicity about the importance and benefits of forests and tree planting as well as the dangers of deforestation and degraded landscapes.
“Trees stabilize the soil, provide habitats, protect and conserve underground water by slowing down the rate of water into rivers and reducing the risk of floods,” he added.