Federal Polytechnic Orogun Takes Big Steps for Climate Action

Federal Polytechnic Orogun in Delta State is now part of the “A Million Tree Project.” This climate action initiative is led by the Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) and its partners. The goal is to promote environmental sustainability and fight climate change.

The third phase of the project kicked off on 23 June at the school in Orogun, Ughelli North Local Government Area. Students, lecturers, environmental advocates, and community members joined in to support the event.

CODAF is working with the African Centre for Environmental and Rural Development (ACERD) and the Neferok Development Initiative (NEDI) on this initiative.

As part of its promise, Federal Polytechnic Orogun has set aside two hectares of land for this project. They also started a Tree Planting Club to encourage students to keep the initiative going after the launch.

At the event, CODAF Executive Director Benin Richard shared his thoughts. He said the project aims to create a long-term bond between communities and the environment.

“We want to build a lasting relationship between people and the environment. Trees are not just plants; they are life support systems,” Mr Richard said.

He praised the school for giving land for what he called a green zone. This area will help with research, conservation, and protecting biodiversity.

Mr Richard also urged students and staff to take care of the trees planted. He suggested the school should include environmental responsibilities in graduation requirements.

“Graduates should leave here with certificates and a living commitment to the planet,” he said.

The Rector of the polytechnic, Duke Okoro, said this partnership fits well with the school’s environmental policy approved by the Governing Council.

He sees students as key to the school’s sustainability plans and announced a donation of N150,000 to help the first members of the Tree Planting Club.

“Climate change is a shared challenge. Tree planting is a practical, measurable action we can all take to reduce damage and secure a healthier future,” Mr Okoro, a professor of environmental analytical chemistry, said.

The institution’s Registrar, Christine Aliyu, mentioned that the campaign has helped realize a long-time goal to green and beautify the campus.

She said earlier attempts were held back by funding and landscaping issues, even with the Governing Council's approval.

“Today we are turning plans into reality, and a green campus improves comfort, productivity and wellbeing for all,” she said.

In a keynote address titled “The Green Mandate: Trees as Nigeria’s Lifeline and Our Collective Responsibility,” ACERD Executive Director Fred Nohwo talked about how trees help control temperature, improve air quality, and stop soil erosion.

Mr Nohwo warned that rising floods, desertification, and extreme heat show the need for everyone to act together.

“National policies give direction, but real change happens when institutions and communities act,” he said.

NEDI Executive Director Nefertiti Okotie also spoke. She called the participants ambassadors of environmental sustainability. She said every tree planted is a step toward a better future.

The event wrapped up with officials from the partner organizations, the polytechnic management, and students planting trees. This marks the start of a long-term effort for environmental restoration.