The Kwara Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (KWACReSAL), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, has commenced the distribution and planting of tree-crop seedlings in selected schools across Kwara State.
The project, officially launched in Ilorin, is designed to strengthen agricultural education, promote environmental sustainability, and create revenue opportunities for participating schools.
In a statement issued on Monday by KWACReSAL Communication Officer, Okanlawon Taiwo, the Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, explained that the initiative will establish school-based orchards where students can gain practical knowledge about crop production and its benefits, while also supporting research.
She praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his dedication to food security and for endorsing the program.
“Through the ACReSAL project, the Governor has approved the distribution and planting of 14,180 economic trees across selected primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions in the state,” Arinde stated.
According to her, the seedlings, which include cocoa, cashew, oil palm, and orange, will not only serve as windbreakers and enhance the aesthetic appeal of school environments but will also provide schools with an additional source of income.
She further encouraged school administrators to ensure proper accountability in managing the orchards and advised them to extend the culture of tree planting to their homes and communities.
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Alabi, emphasized that the initiative would contribute to restoring ecological balance, instil values of conservation and sustainability in young people, and equip them with hands-on knowledge of tree planting.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, highlighted that the project would offer students direct practical experience while safeguarding school environments and assets. He further assured that his ministry would establish a monitoring team to oversee the growth and maintenance of the trees.
The State Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, Alhaji Shamsideen Aregbe, explained that the campaign is designed to strengthen food security, empower young learners, and advance environmental sustainability.
“Through this initiative, we seek to cultivate an appreciation for nature, encourage eco-friendly practices, and nurture a sense of responsibility in students. For us at ACReSAL, this program reflects our dedication to raising a generation committed to sustainability, climate change mitigation, and environmental stewardship. As these seedlings take root, so too will the values of responsibility, conservation, and community service among our youth,” he said.
The event featured the symbolic handover of seedlings to school leaders, a sensitization talk on tree planting, and an interactive question-and-answer session.
It was attended by directors from key ministries, local government officials, school administrators, and members of the Kwara ACReSAL team.
