AE-FUNAI to plant 100, 000 fast-growing trees

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, is to plant 100, 000 fast-growing trees, as a source of internally generated revenue and to combat climate change in the institution.

This is one of the objectives of the school as diclosed by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom.

He said: “Efforts will be made to create reserve areas within the university for planting of about 100,000 fast-growing timber trees by 2022”, adding “These trees will yield billions of naira in 20 years.”

MEANWHILE, the Campus-Green Initiative of the university, which had the goal of building a campus-in-a-garden, thus making the University one of the most beautiful and eco-friendly campuses in Nigeria, is gathering momentum.

The green initiative, which started in 2016, has led to yearly tree planting campaigns, with over 33, 000 ornamental and fruit trees already planted in the university. As the trees continue to grow and mature, the university is gradually wearing a new look, becoming a beautiful and environmental-friendly campus, with staff and students praising the university management for the efforts.

The Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of the project and assured of his continued support to ensure its goals and objectives are achieved.

In view of this, he approved the elevation of the status of the Campus-Green Initiative to a full directorate.

To underscore the importance of tree planting in achieving the goals of the greening project, the university last month, joined the world to celebrate the international day against desertification and drought, where the Directorate of Campus-Green Initiative commenced the tree planting campaign in the university.

During the event, staff and students of various faculties, academic and administrative departments planted trees on the campus.