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ABUJA — Nigeria plans to plant 20 billion trees in the upcoming rainy season as part of a national reforestation and environmental sustainability drive. Vice President Kashim Shettima announced this initiative during a visit to Ethiopia, where he is examining successful international climate action models. The program aims to restore degraded land, combat desertification, and create jobs to address Nigeria’s environmental challenges.
The Federal Government’s strategy centers on planting 20 billion trees to combat desertification, improve air quality, and enhance ecological resilience. Trees play a crucial role in soil health, water retention, and carbon sequestration, making them vital for climate adaptation. This drive is a key part of Nigeria’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development, directly addressing land degradation and improving the nation’s capacity to withstand climate impacts.
Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Programme Inspires Nigeria
Vice President Shettima identified Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Programme as a model for linking climate action with economic opportunity. He highlighted Ethiopia’s transformation into a wheat exporter, a significant shift from its previous status as a nation importing $1 billion worth of wheat annually. This success shows the economic benefits of large-scale planting initiatives. Such projects foster ecological health and national prosperity, often through extensive community mobilization and clear government policy.
Shettima recognized Ethiopia’s effectiveness in mobilizing its population for large-scale environmental work. “We intend to plant 20 billion trees in the next rainy season. It requires a lot of planning, energy, and drive, which Ethiopia was able to galvanise its population into doing,” he stated. This comparison underscores the importance of broad public participation and strategic planning for Nigeria’s Nigeria reforestation goal to succeed.
Africa’s Shared Future Through Partnership
The Vice President emphasized the importance of a Nigeria-Ethiopia partnership for Africa’s advancement and prosperity. “If Nigeria and Ethiopia work, Africa will work,” he declared. Their combined population of over 350 million people represents a significant economic and demographic force for continental progress. Ethiopia’s environmental achievements encourage wider adoption of sustainable practices across Africa, supporting collective climate action and resilience.
Shettima expressed pride in Ethiopia’s accomplishments, stating, “We are mightily proud of them.” This admiration encourages Nigeria’s commitment to its own large-scale environmental programs, supporting a vision for a greener, more prosperous continent through mutual learning and collaborative efforts.
By Abdullah Korede
