By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Monday launched a project to plant 10,000 economic trees across communities in the district to promote environmental sustainability and combat climate change.
The initiative, themed Growing Kogi Central, Building Our Future, aims to restore degraded land, curb soil erosion, improve biodiversity, strengthen food security and create sustainable economic opportunities for residents.
In a statement issued on Monday, the senator said the project would involve planting mango, guava, orange, moringa, neem and other indigenous tree species valued for their environmental, nutritional, medicinal and commercial benefits.
Speaking at the launch, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the initiative as a strategic investment in the future of Kogi Central and a contribution to global climate action.
“Today, Kogi Central is joining the global movement for climate action. Every tree we plant is a symbol of hope, resilience and our collective determination to leave behind a healthier environment and a stronger economy for future generations,” she said.
She said the project aligns with the goals of successive United Nations Climate Change Conferences by promoting ecosystem restoration, sustainable environmental practices and carbon sequestration.
According to her, tree planting remains one of the most effective nature-based solutions to climate change, helping to absorb carbon dioxide, restore ecosystems, protect biodiversity and improve livelihoods.
She added that the focus on economic trees was deliberate, as they offer environmental benefits while generating household income through fruit production, medicinal uses and other commercial opportunities.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said the initiative also supports Nigeria’s commitments under international climate agreements by encouraging grassroots participation in environmental restoration.
She urged traditional rulers, community leaders, women, youth groups, schools, farmers and civil society organisations to nurture the trees to ensure the project’s success.
“Climate change is no longer a distant conversation.
Its effects are visible in our communities through erosion, rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns and declining agricultural productivity.
Government can initiate projects, but communities sustain them.
Together, we can build a greener, healthier and more prosperous Kogi Central,” she said.
Climate experts have identified afforestation and reforestation as effective nature-based solutions for reducing carbon emissions, improving soil fertility, controlling erosion, conserving biodiversity and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Residents, environmental advocates and youth volunteers who attended the launch commended the initiative, expressing optimism that it would deliver lasting environmental and economic benefits across Kogi Central.
