In a significant move to address climate change, the Federal Government has mandated all National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to plant a minimum of 10 trees before their Passing Out Parade (POP). This initiative was announced by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, during the national flag-off of the NYSC tree-planting campaign in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
The minister highlighted the collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AU-NEPAD) to drive this tree-planting campaign, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s goal of planting 25 million trees by 2030. Emphasizing the crucial role of the program in combating climate change and environmental issues, she urged corps members to be agents of change in their communities through innovative solutions.
This initiative aims to address challenges such as desertification, land degradation, and climate-related conflicts. Dr. Ibrahim stressed the importance of collective action in defending the environment and enhancing agricultural productivity.
She called upon the energy and creativity of Nigerian youth to make this initiative successful and urged all stakeholders to support the program for a greener and healthier future. Harnessing the creativity and commitment of the youth is seen as vital for the success of this noble cause.