UNIMAID Leads “80 Trees for 80 Years” Campaign to Mark United Nations’ 80th Anniversary

The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), on Saturday, October 25, 2025, joined the global commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations (UN@80) with a symbolic tree-planting campaign tagged “80 Trees for 80 Years.”

Leading the exercise, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Central Administration), Professor Babagana Bako, joined staff, students, and representatives of the United Nations in planting trees across the campus to promote environmental sustainability and reaffirm commitment to global peace, development, and climate action.

Professor Bako, speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, expressed joy that UNIMAID was selected to host such a globally significant initiative. He congratulated the United Nations on its eight decades of service to humanity and described the exercise as “a reflection of the UN’s enduring commitment to environmental protection and community engagement.” He added, “Even though our colour is blue, we are green at heart,” reaffirming the University’s dedication to sustainability.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that tree planting plays a vital role in mitigating climate change, conserving biodiversity, and improving environmental health for future generations. He commended the Directorate of Consultancy Services and other partners for their collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of the campaign.

In his welcome address, the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Professor Buba M. Sastawa, noted that it was the first time the United Nations had conducted a tree-planting campaign at the University. He described the initiative as a “timely and meaningful” way to mark the milestone, underscoring the importance of trees in food production, shelter, and ecological stability. Professor Sastawa added that tree planting had long been part of the University’s master plan, strengthened over the years through the Directorate of Landscape and Sanitation Management.

Also speaking, the Director of Consultancy Services, Professor Adamu Dzivama, highlighted UNIMAID’s strong record in environmental conservation, revealing that his team had planted over 200,000 trees across Borno State, including roadside shelterbelts and indigenous species. He commended the Vice-Chancellor for establishing the Directorate of Partnership, which promotes collaboration with development and humanitarian organizations.

Representing the United Nations, the UN Coordinator, Mr. Charles Nach Mback, praised the University for its leadership in sustainability and community engagement. He noted that the UN@80 theme, “Building for the Future Together,” reflects a renewed global commitment to shared prosperity and environmental protection. Mr. Mback reaffirmed the UN’s support for institutions that advance initiatives benefiting both people and the planet.

The event climaxed with the ceremonial planting of the first tree by Professor Babagana Bako, symbolically flagging off the “80 Trees for 80 Years” campaign. The activity underscored the power of partnership, collective responsibility, and shared vision in building a greener and more sustainable future.