NDDC Initiates Tree Planting Effort to Curb Erosion and Preserve Coastal Communities

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has flagged off a large-scale tree planting campaign aimed at addressing the destructive effects of erosion and rising sea levels on coastal communities across the Niger Delta.

The initiative, launched in partnership with the Foundation for Sustainable Development Options, seeks to promote a greener environment across the nine NDDC states. The week-long exercise, themed “Reawakening the Consciousness of Tree Planting”, ended on Monday in Calabar, Cross River State.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku—represented by the State Director, Dr. Daniel Ajunwa—highlighted the urgent need for the programme, citing the widespread ecological damage caused by erosion in the region.

According to him, the project is already underway in five states, including Rivers and Cross River, with plans to expand to all nine states. He explained that tree planting would help restore ecosystems, reduce carbon emissions, preserve biodiversity, and protect coastal communities from environmental hazards.

Ajunwa urged residents to refrain from indiscriminate felling of trees, stressing that preserving existing trees is as vital as planting new ones. He added that the NDDC leadership is committed to protecting the environment, restoring ecological balance, and ensuring healthier living conditions.

As part of the campaign, the Commission also organised sensitisation programmes for primary and secondary school pupils, encouraging them to adopt tree planting as a civic duty.