ACReSAL Launches 9,000-Tree Planting Initiative at FULOKOJA
ACReSAL, in partnership with Kogi State Government, has commenced a major tree planting campaign at Federal University Lokoja, aiming to plant 9,000 trees to enhance campus sustainability and resilience.
Mary Nwaeze 
The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), in collaboration with the Kogi State Government, has embarked on an ambitious tree planting campaign at the Federal University Lokoja (FULOKOJA). The initiative, which commenced at the Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory (FULZAC), aims to plant a remarkable 9,000 tree seedlings.
ACReSAL, a World Bank-assisted project, is dedicated to mitigating environmental issues across 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory. The project is a joint effort involving the Federal Ministries of Environment, Water Resources, and Agriculture and Rural Development. Its overarching goal is to positively impact 3.4 million people by improving land use and planning, restoring degraded lands, and enhancing food productivity.
Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto, OON, Kogi State Coordinator for ACReSAL, represented by Mr. Michael Ojo, underscored the project’s alignment with ACReSAL’s Component C policy. “This free tree planting initiative is more than just planting trees; it is about fostering resilience and sustainability within our academic institutions,” Jatto stated.
Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a transformative effort. “This collaboration is a dream realized. It’s not merely about adding trees to our campus but about creating a vibrant, green learning environment that inspires both students and faculty,” Akinwumi said.
The Vice-Chancellor further elaborated on the project's benefits, highlighting its potential to enhance the campus microclimate, improve learning environments, and support environmental sustainability. “This Green Revolution will rejuvenate our campus, providing shade and contributing to a more conducive atmosphere for academic excellence,” he added.
Prof. Mohammad Nasirudeen Suleiman, Chairman of the Board, FULZAC, praised the educational opportunities the initiative offers. He noted that the project would serve as a living laboratory for students, particularly those in environmental sciences, offering practical experience in ecosystem restoration and climate change mitigation.
Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, Registrar of Federal University Lokoja, commended the ACReSAL team for their visionary initiative. “We are thrilled about the planting of 9,000 trees on our campus. This partnership comes at an opportune moment, and we are committed to making the most of it,” Okojie remarked.
The event saw the participation of key university officials, including Deputy Vice-Chancellors Prof. M. S. Audu and Prof. Emmanuel Bala, University Librarian Prof. Sarah Yani, and the ACReSAL team led by Environmental Safeguard Officer Mr. Samson Mopah and other notable members. The Students Union President, Comr. Ben Praise, also joined in the tree planting efforts.
This tree planting campaign marks a pivotal moment in Federal University Lokoja’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development, setting a precedent for future initiatives in the region.
