By Faridat Salifu
On March 21, 2024, the Center for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), in collaboration with esteemed partners including the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation, Association of Flower Nurseries and Landscaping Practitioners, Nigeria Conservation Foundation, and Girls for Climate Action, orchestrated a significant tree planting campaign at GSS Garki, located in Area 10, Abuja. This endeavor was undertaken to mark the occasion of the International Day of Forests.
The primary objective of this event was twofold: to instill the importance of tree planting within the younger generation and to foster awareness about the myriad benefits associated with this eco-conscious practice.
Among these benefits are the pivotal roles trees play in combatting climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide, enriching air quality, providing natural shade, minimizing energy consumption, mitigating soil erosion, and bolstering biodiversity.
An array of tree species, carefully selected for their ecological significance, including shawashop, Indian almond, papaya, coconut, apple, pear, and mango, were ceremoniously planted during the event.
The symbolic inauguration was conducted by Mrs. E Fatima, the NYSC Local Government Inspector for Garki, who planted the inaugural tree.
Nicholas Adeniyi, the Coordinator of the climate change project at the Center for Journalism Innovation and Development, elucidated the profound significance of World Forest Day, an internationally recognized platform dedicated to advocating for the conservation and welfare of trees.
Adeniyi underscored the indispensable role trees play in mitigating climate change, shielding soil from erosion, combating drought, and curbing atmospheric carbon levels.
Emphasizing the critical imperative for nature-based solutions in combating climate change, Adeniyi stressed the indispensable need for sustained tree planting endeavors.
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He underscored trees’ intrinsic capacity as natural carbon sinks, essential for maintaining equilibrium in atmospheric carbon levels.
Adeniyi impassioned a call to action, urging children and communities alike to actively engage in tree nurturing practices, thereby fortifying environmental sustainability efforts and combatting climate change.
Principal Rayyanu Salihu Ogande expressed profound gratitude for the selection of his institution as the venue for this momentous tree planting initiative.
He committed to ensuring the ongoing care and survival of the newly planted trees, affirming their potential to enrich the school community.
Hajia Fatima, a representative of Afnapal (Association of Flower Nurseries and Landscaping Practitioners of Abuja), delivered an enlightening discourse on horticulture, imparting invaluable insights to students on effective tree planting techniques, drought management, and eco-friendly practices such as utilizing organic resources like cow dung for tree nourishment.
Mr. Benjamin, a distinguished botanist, expounded on the health benefits of the shawashop tree, elucidating its scientifically validated properties in combating cancer and its broader significance in preserving ecological equilibrium.
Mr. Sam Praise, representing Afnapal, underscored the paramount importance of tender plant care, cautioning against rough handling, particularly for delicate species like mango trees, whose thriving is contingent upon gentle nurturing.
Daniel Yakubu, acting as the voice of the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), underscored the criticality of raising awareness regarding tree planting and forest conservation.
He delineated the adverse repercussions of deforestation on biodiversity and ecosystem stability, advocating for concerted efforts towards sustainable forestry practices.
CJID reiterated the pivotal role of tree planting initiatives in fostering a sustainable environment and implored both individuals and institutions to prioritize environmental stewardship through active participation in tree planting endeavors.
