In a transformative initiative, the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has taken significant strides through its Green Recovery Nigeria (GRN) Programme, bringing about positive change in the lives of over 1000 Nigerians and enhancing environmental sustainability by planting a staggering 276,860 tree seedlings in 2023.
A statement issued by Head of Communications, NCF, Oladapo Soneye stated that the overarching objective of the GRN Programme is to actively contribute to a reforestation scheme covering 25% of Nigeria’s total landmass.
Soneye added that the visionary 30-year initiative, running from 2017 to 2047, not only focuses on reforestation but also works concurrently to combat deforestation and forest degradation.
He added that the multifaceted approach of the GRN Programme includes activities such as fuel-efficient cook stove training, provision of clean water, employment opportunities as eco-guards, tree nursery raising, and enterprise development centered around non-timber forest products.
According to him, at its core, the livelihood support component of the GRN Programme seeks to diminish the communities’ dependence on the forest.
Soneye explained that this strategic move aims to reduce deforestation resulting from fuelwood extraction, encourage wildlife conservation, and act as a deterrent to criminal hideouts within forest reserves.
Notable beneficiary communities include Iko Esai and Becheve in Cross River, Ajingi in Kano, Guzape in Abuja, and Awka Etti in Anambra.
The extensive tree planting exercise unfolded across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria, introducing a diverse array of economic trees such as avocado, mango, cashew, orange, and timber trees like Gmelina and teak.
These trees found their new homes in forest reserves, National Parks, community forests, secondary schools, and tertiary institutions.
This monumental endeavour was made possible through the collaborative support of various stakeholders, including the German Government through the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union, Germany (NABU), Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Access Corporation, AFR100, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, International Labour Organisation (ILO), First Bank Nigeria Ltd, British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation, ATC Nigeria Wireless Infrastructure Ltd, and many others.
Soneye said the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), the pioneering environmental NGO dedicated to nature conservation and biodiversity resource management for over 40 years, spearheaded this impactful initiative.
The foundation, under the leadership of Dr. Joseph Onoja continues its resolute commitment to ensuring that people live in harmony with nature.
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