By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Joy Adeyiga
As a follow-up to the earlier land allocation, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Environment’s Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) and Asha Microfinance Bank, have started planting over 4,000 trees on campus for conservation, recreation, tourism, training opportunities for students and environmental sustainability.
The species were Khaya Senegalensis (Mahogany), Terminalia Superba (Afara) and Parkia biglobosa (Locust beans)
Speaking during the Official Planting Ceremony to commence the process at the 4-hectare planting location adjacent to the Oluwafemi Balogun Ceremonial Building, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde said that the University was committed to proper maintenance and care for the trees to maturity.
Prof. Kehinde expressed his gratitude for the partnership, commending Asha Microfinance Bank for the support and urged other private organisations to follow suit by contributing to environmental sustainability.
He stressed that the tree planting was just the beginning, noting the University’s vast land area suitable for other related projects.
Prof. Kehinde also highlighted the enthusiasm and willingness of the students to learn and participate in environmental conservation efforts.
Underscoring the critical need to care for the environment, Prof. Kehinde pointed out the significant degradation that threatened human existence, stressing the importance of collective action for environmental sustainability.
Responding, Mr. Sayedur Rahman, Deputy General Manager of Asha Microfinance Bank, appreciated the University Management for the opportunity to contribute to the noble cause.
He expressed his confidence in the University and its students to properly nurture the trees to maturity, commending their dedication and enthusiasm.
Prof. Segun Oladoye, an expert in Forest Ecology and Conservation and Head of Quality Assurance at FUNAAB, appreciated Asha Microfinance Bank for their financial support and commended the University Management for providing land and involving the students in the exercise.
Prof. Oladoye, also the Facilitator of the project acknowledged the students’ hard work and eagerness to learn, emphasising their crucial role in the project’s success.
Highpoint was the Vice-Chancellor’s opening of the planting exercise, followed by other eminent personalities present.
