Nigerian polytechnic launches "Million Tree Project" for climate action

Federal Polytechnic Orogun in Delta State has committed to a significant climate action initiative by allocating two hectares of land for the "A Million Tree Project." This project, spearheaded by the Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) and its collaborators, aims to bolster environmental sustainability and mitigate the effects of climate change. The launch of the project's third phase took place at the institution on June 23, with students, faculty, environmental advocates, and community stakeholders in attendance.

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We want to build a lasting relationship between people and the environment. Trees are not just plants; they are life support systems

CODAF is implementing this initiative in partnership with the African Centre for Environmental and Rural Development (ACERD) and the Neferok Development Initiative (NEDI). Benin Richard, Executive Director of CODAF, stated that the project is designed to cultivate a lasting connection between communities and their environment, emphasizing that "Trees are not just plants; they are life support systems." He commended the polytechnic for dedicating land to create a green zone that will support research, conservation, and biodiversity protection. Richard urged students and staff to actively nurture the planted trees and suggested that environmental stewardship be integrated into the institution's graduation requirements, so "Graduates should leave here with certificates and a living commitment to the planet."

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Graduates should leave here with certificates and a living commitment to the planet

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Orogun, Professor Duke Okoro, affirmed that the partnership aligns with the institution's environmental policy. He highlighted students' central role in the sustainability agenda and announced a N150,000 donation to support the new Tree Planting Club. "Climate change is a shared challenge. Tree planting is a practical, measurable action we can all take to reduce damage and secure a healthier future," Okoro stated. The institution's Registrar, Christine Aliyu, added that the campaign has helped realize a long-held plan to green the campus, overcoming previous funding and landscaping hurdles. She noted that "a green campus improves comfort, productivity and wellbeing for all."

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Climate change is a shared challenge. Tree planting is a practical, measurable action we can all take to reduce damage and secure a healthier future