The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has launched a tree planting initiative, aiming to plant one million tree seedlings as part of its efforts to combat desert encroachment.
During the inauguration of the campaign on Wednesday in Kaduna, Commandant Maj.-Gen. John Ochai highlighted the academy’s leadership role in addressing the environmental challenge of desert encroachment. The event was held in conjunction with the NDA’s 61st anniversary celebrations.
Ochai described desert encroachment as a pressing issue, emphasizing that the academy’s tree planting campaign is a significant step towards ensuring environmental sustainability. “This initiative is about giving back to the earth what we have taken from it due to human development,” he stated.
The Commandant also underscored the academy’s role in shaping Nigeria’s leaders, with graduates serving in various key sectors of the country’s development, including in the military, royal families, business, and public service.
“The NDA has trained leaders across all spheres, and we remain committed to our role in developing the country’s future leaders,” he said.
Ochai further noted that the NDA is actively teaching cadets the importance of environmental conservation to ensure the survival of tree species in the country. He also pointed out that the Kaduna State government is running a tree planting campaign to plant 10 million trees over four years, aligning with the NDA’s one million tree target.
“We hope that future generations of leaders will come here and see the trees we’re planting today, marking a part of our history,” he added.
In 2024, the NDA established a biodiversity and conservation center to enhance research and education on environmental sustainability. The center aims to build capacity in line with global environmental practices.
Ochai encouraged cadets to embrace tree planting, noting its benefits in providing shelter, beautifying the environment, and combating desert encroachment. He also called on other organizations to follow suit and plant trees to protect the environment.
Prof. Bryian Onwumere, Director of the biodiversity center, commended the NDA’s initiative, noting that the military has increasingly recognized the importance of environmental protection. He explained that military training often took place in the bush, but now, personnel understand the need to protect these vital areas.
“It’s not just about planting trees; it’s about ensuring their protection and conservation,” Onwumere stated. He also highlighted the inclusion of indigenous tree species in the planting initiative to ensure sustainability.
