The Federal Government has launched a tree planting initiative aimed at combating desertification and promoting environmental sustainability in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The exercise, carried out at the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO) in Kwali Area Council, focused on the planting of economic and indigenous tree seedlings as part of efforts to boost green infrastructure in line with President Bola Tinubu’s environmental reforms.
The Director-General of SHESTCO, Dr. Magaji Aliyu, said the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) and the National Climate Change Policy.
He noted that the programme is designed to replace trees that have been cut down over time and to restore degraded ecosystems across communities.
“Everybody knows the need of a tree. We have been cutting these trees down for firewood in our villages; now we have to replace them,” he said.
Dr. Aliyu disclosed that about 400 tree seedlings will be planted within and around the complex in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
He added that the exercise involved symbolic planting of seedlings by key officials, including representatives of the Federal Government.
Staff of the complex also participated in the exercise by planting various tree seedlings as part of the environmental awareness campaign.