The Federal Government has pledged to increase its forest cover to meet the recommended 25% cover, restore degraded forests, promote sustainable forest management and conservation, enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services. and support climate change mitigation.
The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Kunle Salako, made this known during the occasion of tree planting campaign launch recently at the University of Abuja.
“The forest is a library; every tree is a book,” Dr Salako said, adding “We are here to reaffirm our commitment to protecting our planet’s precious resources.
“This tree planting ceremony symbolizes our dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.”
He emphasized that as we plant these trees, we acknowledge the urgent need for climate action, recognizing the importance of biodiversity conservation and emphasizing community engagement in environmental protection.
“The mission of the President as regards the environment is to: Promote eco-friendly practices, Support reforestation efforts and Foster a culture of sustainability.
“One key deliverable of the Federal Ministry of Environment and its agencies in 2024 is to plant at least 6 million trees,” he said.
The federal government of Nigeria is driving its forest agenda through:
The Great Green Wall (GGW) Programme: A 15 kilometer wide green belt across 11 states to combat desertification.
Dr Salako added that the benefits of trees are many including climate change mitigation , erosion control, water cycle regulation, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services, green jobs, livelihood support, economic benefits from sustainable forest management, carbon credits, eco-tourism.
The Minister called on all Nigerians to work collaboratively using nature based solutions like tree planting to mitigate the challenges of climate change, preserve natural habitats and ensure a healthier environment for future generation.
According to Gary Snyder; “Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.” Trees are considered to be the Lungs of the earth and its said that if the last tree dies the last man standing dies too.