As part of efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability, LAPO Microfinance Bank (LAPO MfB) has launched a tree-planting initiative in the Ado Awaye area of Oyo State.
Implemented in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the innitiative, among other things, aims to plant 3,000 trees across select communities in Ogun and Oyo States.
In a statement, the bank said the project, which kicked off in Ado Awaye, has already seen the planting of over 1,200 trees, featuring indigenous species such as Akoko, Obi Edun, and Agbalumo.
“This initiative is more than a response to environmental degradation—it is a deliberate and strategic step toward climate resilience and ecological restoration.
“Climate change remains one of the most pressing challenges of our era, with widespread impacts that cut across continents. According to the United Nations, global temperatures have increased by about 1.1°C since the pre-industrial era, with Africa experiencing warming even faster.
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“The World Health Organisation warns that climate change could result in an estimated 250,000 additional deaths annually between 2030 and 2050 due to malnutrition, malaria, and heat stress. Despite contributing the least to global emissions, Africa remains among the most vulnerable to its effects.
“Afforestation, the deliberate planting of trees in non-forested areas, has emerged as one of the most effective natural solutions to combating climate change. It not only absorbs carbon dioxide but also supports biodiversity, combats desertification, and improves the quality of life for surrounding communities.”
Story was adapted from Thisday.
