On Thursday, the 27^th of March, an inauguration program of the “A Million-Tree Project” was carried out by members of Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) at Okpare Grammar School in Ughelli-South local government area of Delta State. The program aimed to enlighten the students on the importance of conserving and planting of different tree species (especially economic trees) in our environment as well as the environmental implication of uncontrolled deforestation. The exercise serves as part of efforts in mitigating the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation as well as the preservation of local plant varieties over hybrids.

Mr. Raphael Oniovo, educated the students on roles trees play in the environment which included the provision of oxygen, combating climate change as well as soil preservation. He also highlighted the environmental impacts of uncontrolled deforestation, citing instances of erosion, climate change, flooding and loss of bio-diversity. He encouraged the students to curb the practice of uncontrolled deforestation and embrace the practice of planting trees in their environment.

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Judith Uruemu pointed out that trees are important for our continual survival on earth and as such we’re responsible for ensuring their survival as well. She reiterated on the role trees play in providing oxygen which is required by us and other forms of life on earth. She encouraged the students to be environmentally conscious and to plant trees whenever the opportunity avail itself.

The highlight of the event was the planting of palm tree seedlings by the students in the school environment which serve as a practical example on the preservation of local plant varieties over hybrids.

The members of CODAF thanked the school management for their time and the opportunity given to them to carry out the exercise. The school management also thanked the staff of CODAF for the education program and gave opportunity for subsequent visits of this nature.