By Chuks Oyema-Aziken and Felix Khanoba
Justice, Development, and Peace Caritas Initiative (JDPCI), a faith-based non-governmental organisation, says it planted more than 10,000 trees between 2023 and 2024.
This initiative, aimed at enhancing biodiversity, was highlighted at a press conference in Abuja on Friday to commemorate World Environment Day 2024.
Sir Josephat Abaagu, KSM, Chairman of JDPCI, emphasized the campaign’s alignment with the principles of “Laudato Si'”, Pope Francis’ encyclical on environmental stewardship.
“Our ambitious tree planting campaign has seen us plant over 10,000 economic trees,” Abaagu stated. “These trees are pivotal in restoring the environment and boosting biodiversity while also offering economic advantages to local communities.”
Abaagu linked the campaign to the 2024 World Environment Day theme, “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” urging Nigerians to take active steps in preserving the environment.
He highlighted JDPCI’s recent launch of the Laudato Si’ Briquette Factory, aimed at combating climate change.
“The JDPC Laudato Si’ Briquette Factory, inaugurated in April 2024 by His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Ignatius A. Kaigama, is a landmark project,” Abaagu noted. “The factory transforms agricultural waste such as sawdust and rice husks into eco-friendly briquettes.
” This provides a sustainable alternative to traditional wood and charcoal, thereby reducing deforestation and carbon emissions. Additionally, the factory offers a cleaner, more affordable energy source for households,” he said.
Abaagu outlined the broader impact of these initiatives: “Our tree planting campaign contributes to carbon sequestration, prevents soil erosion, and promotes a healthier ecosystem. Concurrently, the briquette factory and safe energy cooking stoves address the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, helping alleviate poverty and promote environmental justice.”
He urged continued commitment to environmental protection:
His words : “Despite our achievements, significant challenges remain. With dedication and a shared vision, we can drive positive change. I encourage everyone to join us in our efforts to protect and preserve our environment.”
Other notable speakers at the event included Chukwu Edozie Abazie from the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), Rev. Father Solomon Uko, Executive Director of JDPCI, Mrs. Stephanie Akpiroro, Secretary of JDPCI, and Timothy Ejeh, Programme Director of JDPCI.
They called on Nigerians and the Federal Capital Territory Administration to intensify efforts to protect the environment.
JDPCI, operating under the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, has been engaged in various humanitarian interventions for over 30 years, consistently contributing to community development and environmental sustainability.
