Tree Planting: NGO Sensitises Yobe Communities on Climate Resilience
By Ahmed Isah
Plan International Nigeria has conducted a two-day sensitisation and tree planting campaign in Pompomari and Nayi-Nawa communities of Yobe to tackle climate change effects.
The intervention was implemented under the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance (ZCRA) project.
The campaign targeted women and youths, focusing on environmental sustainability and economic benefits of tree planting.
Mrs Nubwa Bawuro, the Social Behavioral Change Communications Officer for Plan International Nigeria, said the organisation was in Adamawa and Yobe to strengthen community resilience against flooding and other climate impacts.
She said a needs assessment identified inadequate tree cover in the benefiting communities.
According to her, 200 climate-adapted seedlings and protective guards were distributed to residents for planting.
She said the seedlings were carefully selected by experts to suit the soil and climatic conditions of the area.
An environmental expert, Malam Mohammed Paga warned participants about the dangers of climate change, including desertification and land degradation.
He urged residents to nurture the seedlings and protect them from stray animals to ensure survival.
Dr. Babagana Bosso of Yobe State University advised beneficiaries to adopt proper planting techniques, including digging deep holes to enhance growth.
He said mature trees could provide timber, fruits, shade, manure and medicinal value.
Mr Sabiu Maikwano of the National Orientation Agency and climate advocates described the initiative as timely, noting that Yobe faces severe desertification.
The District Head of Nayi-Nawa and Ward Head of Pompomari commended the organisation for supporting efforts to restore vegetation.
They assured that community members would safeguard the seedlings to promote a greener and healthier environment.
The event featured awareness sessions and practical tree planting exercises across the two communities.
