‘To bolster ecological balance’ — NGO plants economic trees in Lagos

She Leads Climate Action Initiative (SLCAI), a not-for-profit organisation, has planted economic trees in Akodo Ise community, in Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos.

The selected tree species include 5 Queens Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana), 5 Coconut trees (Cocos nucifera), and 5 Oil Palms (Elaeis guineensis).

In a statement on Tuesday, the organisation said the effort would bolster the ecological balance of the area, following antecedents of deforestation in the locality.

The programme which took place on March 16, had support from other NGOs, community leaders and 55 children within the community.

SLCAI said plans were underway to expand the programme for its second cohort.

“The Akodo Ise tree restoration project emerged as a standout initiative presented by fellows Yinusa Atinuke Simbiat and Oluwatoke Faeji, both undergraduates at Lagos State University and University of Lagos, respectively,” the statement reads.

“As part of the fellowship program’s inaugural cohort consisting of eight young women, the project received support from RESWAYE, where Atinuke and Oluwatoke acquired essential skills in coastal community initiatives and project management.

“Recognizing the pivotal role of trees in sustaining life on our planet, the project planted a total of 15 palm trees around the community’s primary school while raising awareness among locals about the importance of afforestation.”

The project’s execution witnessed the participation of Doyinsola Ogunye, founder of RESWAYE, and her team, who provided expertise and support for tree planting activities and community engagement.