By Daniel Tyokua
The Anglican Diocese of Kubwa has kicked off its 20th anniversary celebration with the commencement of two million trees planting at St. Peter’s Church, Karu in Abuja.
Briefing journalists on Wednesday, the Kubwa Anglican Bishop, Dr Duke Akamisoko said 80 per cent of the trees would be food trees.
He explained that the initiative with the theme, ‘Rooting for a Greener Future’ is a call to action, a commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the well – being of generations to come
According to him, the activities will reach its peak on March, 2025 with the dedication of 250 hospital beds, which is the day the Diocese was created.
The Bishop also urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to enforce laws that will keep cows out of Abuja roads, in order to encourage a healthy environment in the nation’s capital.
Akamisoko said: “This gesture is part of the various activities to mark the 20th anniversary of our Diocese which has already commenced. The activities will reach its peak on March 12, 2025 with the dedication of 250 Hospital beds, which is the day the Diocese was created.
“Trees have significant role in human life and culture, providing food, shelter, and resources. Today, we gather to commence a transformative initiative that will shape the future of our Diocese, community, nation and our planet through the planting of fruit crops and flowers. 80% of the trees we shall plant will be food trees. Our tree planting campaign, “Rooting for a Greener Future,” is a call to action, a commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of generations to come.
“I plead with the FCT Minister to return cows to ranches so that our campaign for tree planting to be successful. I learnt that he plans to evacuate beggars from FCT streets by next week, which is commendable. However, after beggars, cows should be next. I don’t want cows to eat up our trees.
“In our daily lives, in our busy daily schedule, in the middle of this dynamic city, we all need regular reminders of our connection with nature and our planet. This act is fundamental. The health of our planet is essential to our own health and wellbeing, and to our future and trees are an essential part of it. Trees and forests play an essential role in mitigating the impact of climate change. Planting trees is one of the most important things we can do to contribute to the health of the planet.
“Forests are the lungs of our planet, drawing in carbon dioxide and breathing out oxygen. And trees improve our lives both on a grand scale and at the local level. Strategic planting of trees can help save the energy used for heating in winter and for air conditioning in summer. Trees in urban areas filter the air and remove harmful particles. They also help to filter and regulate water, preventing flooding and protecting watersheds.
“They reduce noise pollution by shielding homes and offices from roads and industrial areas. They provide a hospitable place for animals to live and other plants to grow. And if anyone of us visit any Recreative Park now, how much trees can we see that will help to promote health and relaxation, improve quality of life and provide beautiful places for people to relax and socialize? Trees are mysterious, wonderful and ancient. Plants and forests are hundreds of millions of years old, while homo sapiens has been around for just 300,000 years.
“Leaves, and trees, and all plants, are a vital accompaniment to human life. As we celebrate festivals, let us celebrate them.”
He added that: “There are unprecedented environmental challenges in our society today. Climate change threatens our ecosystems and economies. Deforestation destroys biodiversity and habitats. Pollution imperils our air, water, and health, but we also have the power to create change.
“By planting trees, we combat climate change through carbon sequestration, support biodiversity and preserve ecosystems, enhance air and water quality, foster community engagement and social cohesion and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future.
“Our vision is to plant 2 million trees in 20 Archdeaconries, which cut across the entire FCT between now and December. We look forward to partner with Non- Governmental Organizations, religious Organizations, educational institutions, government agencies and individual families.
“Our target is to cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility, to create a legacy of sustainability, to ensure a greener future for all. Indeed, planting a tree is more than just an act of environmental stewardship; it’s a profound gesture of hope, a symbol of life, and a legacy for future generations.
“The event today is a reminder of our deep connection to nature and the responsibility we hold to nurture and protect it. Yes, as we plant trees, we are not only fostering a healthier planet but also sowing seeds of inspiration, peace, and prosperity. Every tree planted is a step toward a greener, more sustainable world.”
On her part, the Chairperson, Climate Change/ Justice sub-committee of the anniversary Planning Committee of the Kubwa Diocese, said trees have essential minerals and vitamins to sustain our environment and should be treated just like human beings.
