In a significant move to combat deforestation and climate change, a youth-led advocacy group, Plant A Decade Initiative (PADI) has partnered with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Oyo State chapter, and planted 103 economic trees at the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Iseyin, Iseyin Lg, Oyo State. The event, aimed at addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 13 and 15, Climate Action and Life on Land, respectively, by responding to the pressing environmental issues in the region, featured a tree planting exercise and a comprehensive climate education talk to raise awareness among Nigerians on climate action and advocacy in Nigeria.
The tree-planting initiative, held at the NYSC camp in Iseyin, saw active participation from the State Coordinator for NYSC Oyo State chapter, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche, the Executive Chairman of Iseyin local government, Hon. Rasaq Bisi Fadiran, Camp manager, Directors, youth corps members, media organizations, and environmental enthusiasts. Idowu Anuoluwapo Ezekiel, the lead initiator of PADI and a seasoned broadcaster, led the event with an impassioned speech. He emphasized the critical role of youth in the climate change discourse, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures against the alarming rate of deforestation in Oyo State.
“The rate of deforestation in Oyo State is abysmal and requires urgent action, not just mere talks,” Anuoluwapo stated. He elaborated on the dire consequences of continued deforestation and the importance of reforestation efforts to mitigate climate change impacts. Anuoluwapo also pointed out that youth engagement in environmental conservation is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the region.
Meanwhile, the event not only focused on planting 103 tree seedlings but also included an educational segment where Corps members and officials were informed about the broader aspects of climate change and the importance of advocacy. While warmly receiving the team, the State Coordinator, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche appreciated the youths’ effort in modeling a commendable course aimed at equipping the youth with the knowledge and motivation needed to actively participate in environmental conservation efforts.
PADI’s partnership with NYSC signifies a collaborative approach to tackling the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 13- Climate Action and 15- Life on land at the grassroots level. The successful planting of 103 economic trees is a testament to the power of community involvement and the pivotal role of youth in driving climate action. The PADI vanguards expressed hope that the initiative would inspire similar projects across Nigeria, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for the country, as captured in the objectives of PADI, which is to plant 10,000 trees and bridge the information gap on Climate education in Nigeria.