Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Launches 10,000-Tree Project to Combat Climate Change in Kogi

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has inaugurated an ambitious environmental initiative aimed at planting 10,000 economic trees across communities in her senatorial district. The project, titled “Growing Kogi Central, Building Our Future,” is designed to promote environmental sustainability while addressing the localized impacts of climate change.

The initiative focuses on planting a variety of economic tree species, including mango, guava, orange, moringa, and neem. These were selected specifically for their dual utility: they provide essential environmental benefits, such as carbon absorption and soil erosion control, while offering long-term nutritional, medicinal, and commercial value for local residents.

Speaking at the project’s launch on Monday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that the program is a strategic investment in the future of Kogi Central. She noted that the initiative translates global climate goals into tangible community-level action, aligning with international standards for ecosystem restoration and carbon sequestration.

“Today, Kogi Central is joining the global movement for climate action,” the Senator stated. “Every tree we plant is a symbol of hope, resilience, and our collective determination to leave behind a healthier environment and a stronger economy for future generations.”

She further highlighted that the focus on economic trees is a deliberate effort to ensure that environmental conservation supports, rather than hinders, local livelihoods. By providing sustainable sources of income through fruit production and other commercial uses, the project aims to demonstrate that environmental sustainability and economic prosperity can thrive together.

The Senator urged traditional rulers, youth organizations, farmers, and civil society groups to take ownership of the project by ensuring that the trees are nurtured to maturity. She acknowledged that while the government can initiate such programs, their long-term success depends on grassroots stewardship.

Environmental advocates and community members present at the launch lauded the effort, noting that afforestation remains one of the most effective nature-based solutions to rising temperatures and declining agricultural productivity in the region.