The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Adamu Ahmed, has emphasized the vital role tree planting ...
The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Adamu Ahmed, has emphasized the vital role tree planting plays in combating climate change, describing it as a powerful tool in reversing environmental degradation.
Prof Ahmed made the remarks on Saturday, June 21, during the 2nd phase commemoration of the 2025 World Environment Day, held at the ABU-UNICEF Tree Planting Site on the university campus.
“Tree planting has enormous impacts on climate change,” the Vice-Chancellor said. “We must spread this initiative to our families and communities so that everyone can contribute. The more trees we plant, the more we reduce the negative effects of climate change.”
He lauded the participating students for taking part in what he described as a “legacy project” that would, in the coming decade, transform into a beautiful and sustainable green park.
The event, organized in partnership with UNICEF, aimed to instill environmental consciousness among students and engage them in practical sustainability efforts.
Dean of the Student Affairs Division, Professor Sahalu B. Junaidu, explained that the ABU-UNICEF initiative was designed specifically for students to encourage eco-friendly habits and decision-making.
“Students were selected based on interest, which they expressed through a Google form,” he noted. “The first 100 to register were invited to participate in the exercise.”
Prof Junaidu urged the students to remain committed, adding that “tree planting is the foundation of a green and healthy environment.”
Chairman of the ABU Tree Planting and Environmental Sustainability Committee, Dr. S.K. Musa, noted that the institution has a long-standing tradition of planting trees annually in strategic areas across the campus.
“This year, we’re proud to partner with UNICEF, whose student-centered approach aligns with our goals of promoting tree planting and recycling,” he said.
A member of the committee, Muhammad Rabiu Isa, revealed that a workshop was held before the planting exercise to prepare the students for the fieldwork. He added that the enthusiasm among students, particularly females, was impressive.
“Over a thousand trees were planted in less than two hours,” Isa said.
The varieties planted included baobab, plum, and locust trees, among others.
The event marks another step in ABU’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action through education, awareness, and community engagement.
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