The World of Faith Group of Schools (WOFGOS), a Christian-based institution, has started planting 4,000 exotic trees in Abuja to help build climate-resilient urban communities.
The Administrator-General of WOFGOS, Mrs. Daisy Idahosa, announced in Abuja on Thursday that the initiative is part of activities to commemorate the 2026 World Environment Day (WED).
Idahosa explained that the project is being carried out in partnership with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) and other stakeholders, aligned with the theme, “Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future.”
She added that the trees would be planted in designated urban spaces, schools, and communities to enhance Abuja’s green canopy and combat the adverse effects of climate change.
“This will create natural cooling zones to counter rising city temperatures,” she said.
Idahosa noted that the 2026 WED theme, “Inspired by Nature, for Climate, for our Future,” aims to promote urgent climate action and nature-based solutions.
She called on urban communities to take proactive steps toward environmental conservation, emphasizing that green spaces are “crucial” for human survival.
Idahosa praised school children for leading climate action efforts, highlighting their commitment to building climate-resilient communities.
The Director of the UNIC Centre, Mr. Ronald Kayanja, highlighted the rising global temperatures and stressed that “now is the time to act.”
He stated that the tree planting campaign could significantly reduce the impact of climate change and urged developed nations to fulfill their climate-finance commitments to developing countries.
This, he said, would help protect livelihoods and bolster vulnerable economies.
Kayanja warned that the world is at risk of temporarily exceeding the 1.5°C global temperature threshold, which damages homes and worsens hunger.
“Local actions, such as urban afforestation, are vital to protecting vulnerable economies while developed nations meet their climate finance promises,” he emphasized.
Mr. Joe Ukairo, Chair of the Parent-Teacher Association at WOFGOS, stressed the importance of community involvement in building urban resilience to climate change.
He said that securing the future of the younger generation requires active participation in local climate solutions.
The first tree was planted at the WOFGOS premises by Mrs. Kachalla Fatima, President of the Association of Flowers, Nursery, and Landscaping Practitioners of Abuja.
Additionally, a School Friends of the Environment Club was inaugurated during the event, and awards were presented for the cleanest classroom, the best essay on the environment, and the materials recovery competition.
