U-Report lead climate action with tree-planting campaign in Sokoto

In commemoration of the World Environment Day 2025, U-Report, a group of young people in Sokoto State, have launched a tree-planting campaign to fight desertification, heat waves, and plastic pollution. The campaign kicked off at the Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Runbukawa, Sokoto North Local Government Area.

The initiative is powered by U-Report, a platform developed by UNICEF to empower youth with tools to speak up on issues affecting their communities and take meaningful action. Through SMS and social media, U-Report connects young people with decision-makers and enables them to drive change from the ground up.

With a target of planting 1,000 trees across Sokoto State, the campaign is youth-led and community-focused. The trees will not only provide environmental benefits such as shade and improved air quality but will also serve as symbols of youth commitment to sustainability and a greener future.

“Our environment is under threat, and it’s our generation that must rise to the challenge,” said Ibrahim Khalil Adamu, the Sokoto State Coordinator of U-Report. “This campaign is about more than planting trees. It’s about inspiring our peers to take ownership of their future by protecting the environment and rejecting harmful practices like plastic pollution and deforestation.”

Trees planted during the launch included moringa, mango, guava, cashew, and other native species suited to the local climate. These will be maintained by community members and the health facility, with youth volunteers ensuring their survival.

Mr. Mustapha Umar, the Community Health Officer at PHC Runbukawa, praised the youth-led effort.

“The presence of trees will improve conditions for both patients and staff. We are happy to see young people taking the lead—it gives us hope,” he said.

As part of a broader movement of climate-conscious youth across Nigeria, this initiative underscores the role of young people as frontline actors in the fight against environmental degradation. Backed by UNICEF, Sokoto’s U-Reporters are turning awareness into action—one tree at a time.