In a bold move to combat land degradation and climate change, the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), in collaboration with the Kogi State Government, has embarked on an aggressive tree planting campaign at the Federal University Lokoja (FUL). The initiative, which kicked off on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory (FULZAC), aims to plant a staggering 9,000 tree seedlings. ACReSAL, a World Bank-assisted project, is tackling environmental challenges in Northern Nigeria on multiple fronts.

The project which covers 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, is a collaborative effort involving the Federal Ministries of Environment, Water Resources, and Agriculture and Rural Development. ACReSAL's ambitious goal is to benefit 3.4 million people directly by improving land use and planning, restoring degraded lands, and boosting food productivity. Interestingly, this laudable initiative is not just about transforming the University's landscape, but planting the seeds of a greener, more resilient future for Kogi State and beyond.

In her remarks during the tree planting exercise, the Kogi State Coordinator for ACReSAL, Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto, OON, represented by Mr. Michael Ojo, emphasized the Agency's commitment to institutional strengthening. "This free tree planting project aligns perfectly with ACReSAL's Component C policy. We're not just planting trees but cultivating resilience and sustainability in our academic institutions," the Coordinator explained.

Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, who was visibly excited about the initiative, applauded ACReSAL saying the collaboration was a dream come true. "It is not just about planting trees, it is about breathing life into our campus. Our vision is to create a lush, green oasis of learning that inspires our students and faculties alike," he maintained.

While thanking the Agency for the initiative, the Vice-Chancellor's enthusiasm was palpable as he continued, "It is indeed a Green Revolution. Imagine walking through a campus shaded by 9,000 trees. It is not just about aesthetics, it is about creating a microclimate that enhances learning and research. This project aligns perfectly with our commitment to environmental sustainability and academic excellence."

Similarly, the Chairman of the Board, FULZAC, Prof. Mohammad Nasirudeen Suleiman, emphasized the educational value of the initiative, adding that the project would serve as a living laboratory for FUL students, especially those in environmental sciences, and provide an opportunity for hands-on learning about ecosystem restoration and climate change mitigation.

In her closing remarks, the Registrar, Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, commended the ACReSAL team for the visionary initiative, saying it signifies a sense of hope and anticipation. In her words, “We are still basking in the euphoria of a quantum tree seeding totaling 9,000 on our campus. On behalf of the Governing Council, staff, students, and the University community, we thank the organization for this partnership. It couldn’t have come at a better time than now. We will put the plants to good use,” Dr. Okojie said.

Present at the event were Principal Officers of the University, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Prof. M. S. Audu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Emmanuel Bala; University Librarian, Prof. Sarah Yani; while the team from ACReSAL included the Environmental Safeguard Officer, Mr. Samson Mopah; Natural Resource Desk Officer, Mrs. Rachael Anuwe; Social Livelihood Officer, Alhaji Mahmud Suleiman; Human Resource Officer, Olugbenga Ajibiodun; and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Mrs. Rikeya Muhammed. Also, the students were not left out in the tree planting as the event witnessed the presence of the Students Union President, Comr. Ben Praise, among other dignitaries. See more pictures here