The Federal Government has unveiled a bold initiative to engage 10,000 youths and retirees in planting six million trees across Nigeria, aimed at combating the adverse effects of climate change. Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Environment and Ecological Management.
This initiative not only seeks to address environmental degradation but also aims to create employment opportunities for unemployed youths and provide economic benefits for retirees. Salako emphasized that the tree planting program would be conducted in phases, focusing on areas impacted by deforestation and desertification.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the grave health implications of climate change, including increased mortality rates from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhoea, and heat stress. Salako underscored the importance of mitigating these risks by planting trees, which can absorb greenhouse gases, enhance air quality, and mitigate land degradation, flooding, and erosion.
The tree planting program will encompass a variety of tree species, including indigenous and exotic varieties suitable for Nigeria’s diverse ecological zones. Additionally, agroforestry will be promoted, and bamboo will be advocated as an alternative to trees.
Salako called on all Nigerians to support the initiative by planting trees in their homes and communities. He outlined the government’s strategy, which includes engaging youths, retirees, and agencies in tree planting exercises, as well as supporting state ministries and NGOs with successful tree planting programs.
To ensure the effectiveness of the program, the Federal Government plans to deploy technology for monitoring and evaluation. Virtual training sessions and geo-location images will be utilized to track tree planting activities and verify their implementation.
The minister emphasized the aim of creating between 5,000 to 10,000 jobs through this intervention, with participants receiving compensation to ensure the nurturing and growth of planted trees. This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability while addressing unemployment and fostering economic empowerment.
