In an effort to foster environmental consciousness and agricultural education, the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, has partnered with the Youth Farmers Development Initiative (YFDI) to establish a botanical garden and horticultural parks on the university campus.
The collaboration, sealed by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to develop the planting of fruit trees and the cultivation of a thriving orchard within the university premises.
During his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Professor Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, FNES, emphasized the urgent need to align infrastructural development with the green initiative and enhance the ambience and conviviality of the university environment.
Expressing appreciation to the YFDI delegation for their visit and willingness to provide much-needed specialist support, Prof. Rim-Rukeh highlighted that the university’s founders recognized the importance of fruit-tree planting, hence designated spaces in the university Master Plan for that purpose. He also pledged to offer all necessary support for the project’s realization.
In his remarks, YFDI National President, Mr. Chilota Onyeka, expressed his organization’s readiness to assist the university in reaping the abundant benefits of fruit-tree planting. He assured that genetically modified species of pawpaw, orange, coconut, and other economically viable tree varieties would be nurtured to maturity to optimize their economic benefits and enhance the aesthetics of the learning environment.
According to him, beyond the educational aspect, the collaboration aims to contribute to the university’s commitment to biodiversity and climate resilience. Fruit trees, known for their ability to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, will enhance the campus’s green cover and contribute to the overall well-being of the ecosystem.
The event also included a practical session where fruit tree samples were planted by both the Vice-Chancellor and the President of YFDI at the university.
Others present at the event were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Doris Ogeleka; Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) Omoyine E. Jane; Bursar, Mr. Garba Nabayi; and the Director of the Physical Planning Department, Arc. Oniovoefe Ekuerhare.
The YFDI delegation included State Coordinator, Hon. Ovie Joseph Akozo; National Principal Officer, Bishop Unwe Samson Efe; and State PRO, Ovuakpoye Eric.