In a bid to address Nigeria’s critical deforestation challenges and drive sustainable development, the ECO2RUPPERS Nigeria Project has launched the ‘Free2Green’ initiative aimed at planting over six billion trees annually.
The outfit’s lead sustainable finance and circular economy expert, Mr Victor Wilkinson Agih, in a statement, explained that an unprecedented 60 million eco-volunteers would be mobilised to plant the trees to foster ecosystem restoration, biodiversity protection and economic empowerment across the nation.
The environmentalists remarked that the ‘Free2Green’ initiative marks a significant milestone in efforts to combat deforestation, mitigate climate change, and promote biodiversity conservation in Nigeria.
Expressing concern over the high rate of deforestation in the country, he noted that the ‘Free2Green’ initiative aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework agreement, offering an innovative solution to climate finance challenges.
He stated that through a comprehensive strategy, the campaign seeks to empower communities, create green jobs, and catalyze positive environmental change on a massive scale adding the Free2Green Nigeria Campaign is positioned to activate a series of transformative programs and incentives across all 6 geopolitical zones of the country.
Agih cited green job creation, health and wellness, eco-advocacy and awareness as benefits derivable from the campaign in the country.
According to him: “The establishment of 6 million eco-marshal positions, providing employment opportunities and promoting environmental stewardship. 60 million Nigerians will receive health wallets, ensuring access to healthcare and preventive measures.Sustainable Energy Solutions: The distribution of 60 million clean cook stoves, reducing indoor air pollution and promoting sustainable energy practices.
“Engaging 60 million Nigerians as eco-volunteers, raising awareness and driving positive environmental change.Ecopreneurship Support: The provision of 600,000 ecopreneurship grants, fostering sustainable business initiatives and economic growth.Reforestation Efforts: A massive tree-planting campaign, aiming to plant 6 billion economic trees across the country, contributing to reforestation and carbon sequestration.Circular Economy and Waste Management:
“The recycling of 60 million tons of plastic waste, promoting a circular economy and reducing environmental pollution.A Nationwide Movement for a Sustainable FutureThe Free to Green initiative represents an unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s natural resources and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come,” he noted.
“By empowering Nigerians as eco-volunteers and providing them with the necessary tools and incentives, the project aims to foster a nationwide movement towards environmental stewardship and economic prosperity.
“The campaign’s multifaceted approach addresses various aspects of sustainable development, including job creation, healthcare access, clean energy solutions, and waste management. By engaging communities and promoting eco-entrepreneurship, the initiative seeks to create a ripple effect of positive change across Nigeria.
“Through this ambitious program, the ECO2RUPPERS Nigeria Project aims to set an example and inspire collective action towards a greener, more sustainable future.”