Abuja: The Steron Community Development Foundation (SCDF) says it has planted 100 trees in Wasa and Takushara communities in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Managing Director of Steron Group, Mr. Abubakar Omar, announced that the tree planting initiative was conducted in collaboration with the Climate Action Team Initiative and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). This effort is part of the ‘Befriend a Tree Initiative,’ aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing the socio-economic wellbeing of the residents in these communities.
Mr. Omar explained that out of the 100 trees planted, 80 were economic trees, specifically mango and orange varieties, while the remaining 20 were mast trees strategically planted to improve environmental conditions and soil stability. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with his personal commitment to environmental sustainability, especially given the company’s involvement in the extraction of natural resources.
Participants and representatives from partner organizations praised Steron Group for its tangible demonstration of corporate responsibility in Nigeria’s extractive sector. Mr. Daniel Black, Founder of the Growth for Sustainable Agriculture Initiative and former President of the YALI Network, highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting it as a visible commitment by an extractive company to environmental and community development.
Mrs. Ebaide Omiunu, Founder of The Ebaidebhek Initiative (TEI), lauded Steron Group as a model of responsible corporate engagement with host communities. On behalf of NEITI, Gender and Environment Officer Stephanie Etareri reaffirmed the organization’s support for initiatives that promote transparency, environmental responsibility, and accountability within the extractive sector.
The tree planting is part of Steron Group’s broader community development program focused on sustainable environmental practices in areas where the company operates. Halima Imam, the Community Development Manager, announced plans to continue environmental interventions, including training women in Wasa and Takushara in briquette production for clean cooking. This training aims to foster cleaner cooking practices and enhance community health.
The ‘Befriend a Tree Initiative’ is designed as a long-term commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible engagement with host communities. Organizers expressed confidence that the trees would mature to offer lasting environmental and economic benefits to the residents of Wasa and Takushara.