Stanbic IBTC Holdings, a member of the Standard Bank Group, is actively supporting the Green Recovery Nigeria (GRN) Programme to plant 30,000 trees in 10 states of the federation, in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF).
The states include Edo, Ogun, Katsina, Ebonyi, Plateau, Rivers, Cross River, Taraba, Jigawa, and Yobe.
The Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Dr Demola Sogunle, assured that the bank would complete the ambitious tree planting programme across 10 states of the federation by the close of 2023, with a target of 3,000 trees in each state.
The initiative aims to increase Nigeria’s forest cover from its current meagre five per cent to the recommended 25 per cent of national land cover by 2050, as advised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation.
In a significant ceremony held at the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC), nestled within the heart of Lagos and serving as the NCF’s headquarters, Stanbic IBTC reaffirmed its commitment to this crucial initiative.
Enhancing the nation’s forest cover not only grants access to valuable forest resources and sustenance but also fosters heightened biodiversity and curbs the transmission of zoonotic diseases between wildlife and humans.
Sogunle was accompanied by the Head of Sustainability, Risk, and Capital Management at Stanbic IBTC, Mrs. Tosin Leye-Odeyemi, among other distinguished guests at the ceremony.
Sogunle emphasised that the tree-planting initiative aligns seamlessly with Stanbic IBTC’s core values, which encompass a profound commitment to social, environmental, and economic impact within society.
He said, “We are initiating this tree-planting drive as the first of many going forward. Stanbic IBTC remains steadfast in addressing climate change issues and creating a hospitable environment for all Nigerians.”
The Director-General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Dr Joseph Onoja, commended Stanbic IBTC for its commendable efforts, expressing hope that both public and corporate entities in Nigeria would follow suit and engage in large-scale tree-planting initiatives across the country’s geopolitical zones.
He further said, “I recommend this practice to every Nigerian; planting trees plays an essential role in our ecosystem and contributes significantly to a sustainable and healthier planet.”
Representing the Commissioner of Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, was the Deputy Director, Conservation and Ecology, of the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Mr Olabode Adeola, who emphasised the necessity of citizen involvement in the endeavour.
He advocated for citizens to plant trees in their own spaces, cultivate rooftop gardens, and participate in community gardening projects to make a substantial impact.
Adeola also underlined the significance of collaboration between state governments and financial institutions like Stanbic IBTC.
He stated, “In addition to individual efforts, state governments must collaborate with financial institutions like Stanbic IBTC.
By partnering with these stakeholders, we can develop innovative solutions, share resources, and create a collective impact that will transform our city into an oasis of green.”
The tree planting ceremony at the Lekki Conservation Centre was graced by the presence of the management staff of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, further underscoring the collaborative spirit behind this commendable effort to enhance Nigeria’s forest cover and promote a more sustainable and biodiverse future.
YOU SHOULD NOT MISS THESE HEADLINES FROM TheWitness
Nigeria’s current situation lamentable — Anyaoku
Chief Emeka Anyaoku, a former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth has described the current situation in…
Bukola Saraki foundation covers Mr Ibu’s medical bills
The Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation has fully covered the medical expenses of the…
Hold my pastor responsible if anything happens to me — Chef Dammy
Ekiti-based Nigerian chef, Damilola Adeparusi, popularly known as Chef Dammy, has stated that her…
Why Tiwa Savage may not sing for more than a year
In a move reminiscent of Afrobeat sensation Tekno, renowned Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage is facing the prospect of…
How Gomba won 2023 Nigeria Prize for Literature
THE 2023 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Literature climaxed last Friday at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, with…
What causes kidney failure
Kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), can have various causes, but the two main types are...
