The Ecosystem Sustainability Network, in lieu of the Climate Change Education Programme (C-CEP), has launched a tree planting campaign tagged “Green School Project.”
The event took place on August 6, 2023, at the Government Science Secondary School Gusau, Zamfara state, Nigeria, where all the schools benefiting from C-CEP were present.
The schools include Magaji Taula Academy, Government Science Secondary School, Government Girls Day Secondary School, Muslim Society of Nigeria School, Government Technical School, Prison Staff School, and Government Secondary School Janyau.
Sending her goodwill message, Mrs Ojochide Adehi, the Secretary to the Board of Trustees, EcoSusNet, stated how the importance of tree planting could not be overemphasized.
“Today marks a significant moment in our journey towards a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future. With great enthusiasm and a deep commitment to environmental conservation, we gather here to launch the Tree Planting Campaign Programme in Zamfara State, Nigeria,” she said.
“As we look around us, we are reminded of the crucial role that trees play in our lives. They are the lungs of our planet, providing us with clean air to breathe and offering respite from the scorching sun. Trees are not merely silent witnesses to our history; they are active participants in our daily well-being and environmental sustainability,” Mrs Ojochide expressed.
Jiata Ekele, Executive Director of EcoSusNet added that the campaign was not merely about planting trees; it was about fostering a sense of ownership and unity among the citizens.
“Through this Tree Planting Campaign Programme, we embark on a mission to restore and enhance our natural surroundings. Our goal is to plant more trees across the nation, revitalizing urban spaces, enriching our rural landscapes, and creating a legacy of environmental stewardship. Each tree we plant is a symbol of our commitment to a healthier ecosystem and a better quality of life. Schools, community groups, businesses, and individuals – everyone has a role to play,” she said.
Jiata advised the students to plant a tree in their names especially, during special events in their lives like birthdays and graduations.
Also speaking, Salisu Muhammad, the Zamfara State Coordinator of the Civil Alliance for Climate Action (CACA), encouraged the students to set up a native and economic tree nursery at their homes or on a large scale for commercial purposes.
He also encouraged the students to volunteer with an environmental organization currently involved in tree planting projects in rural and urban areas to learn about and take part in the project.
Tashi Manasseh, a key member of the Organising Team, added that tree planting was the most effective way of leaving an environmental legacy. He outlined how several researches demonstrate the benefits of tree planting for neighborhoods and schools. He said tree planting also helped develop a sense of inner pride and encourages positive behavior.
During the event, Tashi stated that the goals of this project were to teach young people how trees were beneficial to humans, to promote and integrate environmental values, and to teach and promote environmental sustainability among young people.
Speaking on behalf of the benefitted schools, Mallam Aliyu Musa, the Director of Studies of Magaji Taula Academy, appreciated the organizers of the campaign and said this project would go a long way in helping with the impact of deforestation activities in the community.
Mallam Aliyu assured the conveners that the participants will ensure that all trees planted in their various schools were being taken good care of.
Also present at the event was Mrs Victoria Sule, the Zonal Inspector of NYSC Zamfara state, Nafiu Mohammad, Head staff of Girls Secondary School, and numerous students of the adopted schools.
