The UNICEF’s U-Report initiative in Sokoto State organized a tree-planting ceremony at the Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Runbukawa, Sokoto North Local Government Area, in alignment with the global theme of World Environment Day 2025, “Combating Plastic Pollution.
The event marked the commencement of a campaign to plant 1,000 trees across Sokoto State. The aim is to mitigate desert encroachment and provide shade to the healthcare facility. This initiative also complements efforts to reduce plastic pollution by promoting sustainable environmental practices.
Mr. Ibrahim Khalil Adamu, the Sokoto State Coordinator of U-Report, emphasized the importance of environmental conservation. “Our goal is to combat desertification, environmental degradation, and the effects of intense heat. We’re also conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public on the dangers of indiscriminate tree felling and plastic pollution,” he stated.
He said the trees planted include mango, guava, cashew, and other non-commercial species.
Mr. Mustapha Umar, Community Health Officer in charge of PHC Runbukawa in Sokoto North Local Government Area, expressed gratitude for the initiative, assuring that the facility would ensure the trees are nurtured to maturity.
“This place has a high turnout of patients every day, so there is a need for trees to provide shade and improve ventilation. We are grateful to U-Report by UNICEF for coming to our aid,” he said.
The Primary Healthcare Centre in Runbukawa is one of the facilities supported by UNICEF.
This local action reflects a broader global commitment to environmental sustainability and the fight against plastic pollution.