Why Nigeria’s defence academy is set to plant one million trees

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has launched out to plant one million trees in Kaduna, with Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal attending the inauguration a few days ago.

The NDA says its grand plan was to build, in partnership with the federal government, a Biodiversity Conservation Centre, which would serve as a research and educational facility.

During the inauguration, the Minister, represented by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Mahmud Kambari, praised the NDA’s initiative.

In his words: “This is potentially a wake-up call for others to join the train.

“The NDA has carved yet another niche for itself by joining the vanguard to restore, protect, and conserve Nigeria’s natural heritage.”

He emphasized the critical importance of forests and biodiversity to all sectors and professions, noting that addressing challenges such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change requires collaborative partnerships across all institutions and agencies.

The Minister said the landmark nature of the NDA’s actions will not only expand awareness but also galvanize sectoral interests in environmental protection and conservation.

He added: “This groundbreaking ceremony signifies another dimension by which the military complements our efforts to mitigate environmental problems.

“I foresee the Biodiversity Conservation Centre serving as a sanctuary for endangered species and a hub for research and education, contributing to public awareness about biodiversity conservation and advancing our progress towards the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.”

The Minister also stated that the planting of one million trees would significantly enhance the nation’s forest cover, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and helping achieve the Global Forest Goals.