FUBK, UNICEF Launch Green Rising Campaign, Plant 1,000 Trees in Kebbi
By Yusuf Gwandu
The Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK), in partnership 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 during the inauguration in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Muhammad Zaiyan-Umar, said the initiative aligns with the institution’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
He explained that the campaign is being implemented in collaboration 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.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the campaign builds on the university’s afforestation programme, noting that FUBK has planted more than 12,000 trees and established a tree nursery since 2018.
Prof. Zaiyan-Umar directed relevant university units to ensure the proper nurturing, monitoring, and protection of the newly planted seedlings to guarantee their survival.
He stressed that every tree planted must be preserved for future generations and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with UNICEF and other stakeholders to advance sustainable environmental initiatives.
UNICEF Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Facilitator supporting Kebbi State, Mr. Toyin Adisa, said the Green Rising Campaign was designed to inspire and empower young people to take the lead in climate action through tree planting and environmental stewardship.
He commended the university for embracing the initiative and expressed confidence in its capacity to sustain the project.
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.
