By Olasunkanmi Olajide

In a bid to enhance the aesthetics, conservation efforts, and economic potential of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), in collaboration with two other organisations, recently donated 3,000 tree seedlings to the University.

The donated tree species include 1,400 Terminalia Superba (Afara/Yellow Pine), 900 Parkia biglobosa (Iru/Locust Beans), and 700 Khaya Ivorensis (Oganwo/Mahogany). These trees, upon reaching maturity, are expected to offer a range of benefits, from adding to the scenic beauty of the campus to providing economic value through their fruits, stems, wood and other products.

During an inspection of the designated planting areas, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, expressed his gratitude to the donors. He highlighted the multiple advantages the trees would bring to the University, including their role in enhancing the ecosystem, serving as windbreaks, and contributing to meal preparation through condiments like Iru from the Parkia biglobosa.

Additionally, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised the trees’ role in combating global warming, noting that an increase in tree cover would improve air quality by enhancing the balance of oxygen and carbondioxide in the atmosphere.

Accompanying the Vice-Chancellor on the inspection was the Director of Quality Control and Assurance, Prof. Segun Oladoye.