Sani Dutsinma
The Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK), in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has launched the Green Rising Campaign with the planting of 1,000 tree seedlings to promote youth-led climate action and environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Birnin Kebbi, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Muhammad Zaiyan-Umar, said the initiative underscores the institution’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Professor Zaiyan-Umar explained that the campaign is being implemented in partnership with the Kebbi State Ministry of Environment, the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), Kebbi State Chapter, the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), the Go Green Foundation, and the Students’ Union Government.
He noted that the initiative builds on the university’s ongoing afforestation programme, revealing that FUBK has planted more than 12,000 trees and established a tree nursery since 2018.
The Vice-Chancellor directed relevant university units to ensure the proper nurturing, monitoring, and protection of the newly planted seedlings to guarantee their survival, stressing that every tree planted must be preserved for the benefit of future generations.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with UNICEF and other stakeholders to advance sustainable environmental initiatives and foster greater climate resilience.
In his remarks, the UNICEF Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Facilitator in Kebbi State, Mr. Toyin Adisa, said the Green Rising Campaign is designed to inspire and empower young people to take the lead in climate action through tree planting and environmental stewardship.
Also speaking, the Director of Environment at the Kebbi State Ministry of Environment, Mr. Dantani Sarki, urged the university to ensure proper care and continuous monitoring of the seedlings to maximise their environmental impact.
The Green Rising Campaign is expected to enhance environmental sustainability, strengthen youth participation in climate action, and contribute to afforestation efforts across Kebbi State.