Julius Berger tree planting initiative in Abuja, in partnership with FRIN and NCF, plants over 20,000 trees to combat deforestation and climate change in Nigeria

Julius Berger tree planting exercise last Friday marked a powerful step forward in Nigeria’s environmental conservation efforts.

Also read: Ogun State Tree Planting Drive Targets One Million Trees to Fight Climate Change

Partnering with the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), Julius Berger planted over 20,000 indigenous tree seedlings at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment in Abuja.

This collaborative effort reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to combat deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

Julius Berger provided vital funding and coordination, while FRIN guided the selection of species suitable for the local ecosystem.

The NCF contributed decades of expertise in conservation and community engagement.

At the event, the Dean of the Faculty of General Research at the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, J.Y. Maina, emphasized the link between environmental protection and national security.

“Environmental protection is inseparable from national security. Climate change, desertification, and environmental degradation pose long-term threats to our country’s stability,” he said.

“Tree planting is not just an ecological necessity; it is a strategic investment in our collective future.”

The Zonal Coordinator of NCF, Garba Boyi, highlighted the urgency of the initiative, noting that Nigeria currently has less than 10% of its original vegetation cover.

He praised the Green Recovery Nigeria initiative aimed at restoring the nation’s vegetation through targeted tree planting programs.

“We as an organisation feel the need to complement government efforts by planting trees,” Boyi added.

The event also saw commendations from the Chief Executive of Ceed Africa Limited, Dr. Okechukwu Ogbonna, and the Director of FRIN for Julius Berger’s leadership and funding support.

Also read: Eco-Volunteers Portal Sparks Massive Hope with 560,000 Youth Targeted for Mangrove Planting in Ogoni

This tree-planting campaign stands as a shining example of how the military, government institutions, and private sector collaboration can drive sustainable development and environmental stewardship in Nigeria.