By Abdurrahman Alhassan Abdullahi, Kaduna 

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) under the Centre for Human Resource Development (CHRD) organised a tree planting exercise as part of its efforts to promote environmental sustainability. 

The event was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Professor Sammani Rabo Butswat, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Peters.

Professor Butswat emphasised the critical role of tree planting in promoting environmental sustainability and human health. “As we plant these trees, we are not just beautifying our surroundings; we are also investing in the future of our planet,” he said. He highlighted the numerous benefits of trees, including improving air quality, reducing pollution, and serving as habitats for wildlife.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor noted that the benefits of trees extend beyond the environment to human health and well-being. “Studies have shown that green spaces can reduce stress, improve mental health, and even lower the risk of chronic diseases,” he said. By planting trees, NOUN is creating a healthier environment for its students, staff, and the broader community.

The Director General of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Dr. Zakaria Buba Yaduma, represented by Dr. Ariyo Christopher, Deputy Provost of the Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation Mando Kaduna, emphasised the importance of trees and the need for collective action to protect the environment.

“The importance of trees can never be overemphasised,” Dr. Christopher said. “Tree is life. When you cut trees and you don’t plant back, you are destroying life. And when you plant a tree, you nourish it; you are nourishing life.”

Dr. Christopher highlighted the numerous benefits of trees, including preventing wind erosion, serving as windbreaks, and providing shade. He also noted that trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, creating a cool environment for relaxation. “Trees also serve as a medicine,” he said. “We have a lot of trees that are medicinal. A lot of sicknesses are being healed through the trees.”

Dr. Christopher expressed his institute’s readiness to partner with NOUN to plant trees in all its campuses across the nation. “My institute has research stations all over the country, and we have seven colleges located in all the geopolitical zones in Nigeria,” he said.

“We are blessed in Kaduna with the Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation, which is saddled with the responsibility of training middle-level manpower in agriculture, environmental sustainability, forestry, and skills acquisition.”

In his welcome address, the director of the Centre for Human Resources Development, Professor Aminu Umar, highlighted the significance of tree planting, citing its benefits for the environment, human health, and future generations.

Professor Aminu Umar maintained that “Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving air quality and mitigating the effects of climate change,” he said. He emphasised the need for collective action to protect the environment and promote sustainability.

The event featured a demonstration of skills acquisition programs taught in the NOUN Staff School, including carpentry, electrical installation, plumbing, hairdressing, and tailoring. The pupils of the school showcased their skills and creativity, highlighting the importance of vocational training in promoting self-reliance and sustainability.

The tree planting exercise at NOUN’s Centre for Human Resource Development demonstrates the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement.