The Federal Government has launched a one million tree-planting campaign at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna State, as part of renewed efforts to tackle climate change, desertification, and environmental degradation across the country.

The initiative, unveiled at the academy’s Biodiversity Conservation Centre, is a collaborative effort involving the Africa Finance Corporation and private sector partners.

It is designed to promote ecological restoration, improve biodiversity, and enhance Nigeria’s climate resilience.

Representing the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Kaduna State Commissioner for Environment, Abubakar Buba, described the programme as a strategic intervention with long-term environmental and economic benefits.

He warned that Kaduna State continues to face increasing environmental threats, including desert encroachment in the northern region and deforestation in the south, both of which are negatively impacting agriculture, water resources, and local ecosystems.

According to him, the planting of one million trees will contribute significantly to carbon absorption and align with Nigeria’s commitments under global climate agreements.

He added that the project would focus on creating a sustainable and diverse forest ecosystem rather than a single-species plantation.

President and Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Finance Corporation, Samaila Zubairu, said the campaign reflects a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and intergenerational responsibility. “We are not just planting trees; we are planting a promise to protect our environment and secure the future for generations to come,” he said.

Zubairu noted that environmental degradation and biodiversity loss remain critical challenges, particularly in northern Nigeria, stressing the need to balance economic growth with environmental protection.

Also speaking, Commandant of the NDA, Oluyemi Olatoye, described environmental degradation as a growing national security concern, calling for urgent and collective action. “Environmental security is national security.

A nation cannot thrive if its natural resources are depleted,” he said. Olatoye added that the academy established its Biodiversity Conservation Centre to preserve indigenous species, support ecological research, and promote environmental awareness among military personnel.

The tree-planting campaign is expected to support carbon capture, control erosion, and strengthen environmental education, while contributing to broader national efforts to combat climate change.