The Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Professor Edoba Omoregie, has announced that the institution will soon launch a campaign to plant 10,000 trees as part of efforts to combat the adverse effects of climate change.
Omoregie made the announcement during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to his office at the university in Benin City.
He explained that the tree planting initiative is a key component of his five-point agenda, which outlines his strategic objectives for advancing the university.
“Since I assumed office, I’ve emphasized that the University of Benin must move forward. I am here to ensure that happens. The university has existed for 55 years, and it is the only institution in Edo State to have thrived for that long,” Omoregie said.
He continued, “This shows the importance of this institution, not just to the government, but to all stakeholders, including your Council. I’ve put together a five-point agenda that aligns with the university’s strategic vision.”
The Vice Chancellor went on to outline his key objectives, which include: advancing the university’s academic profile, establishing the university as a hub for capacity building and vocational training, improving the welfare of staff and students, enhancing the institution’s infrastructure, and fostering an environmentally friendly campus.
“We are committed to improving the environmental outlook of the university,” he said. “We want to continue making our campus a model of environmental sustainability.”
As part of these efforts, Omoregie revealed plans to kickstart a large-scale tree planting initiative on campus. “We will soon begin planting 10,000 trees here at the university, and we plan to extend this effort to Benin City and beyond. If you look at Benin, from Ugbowo to other areas, there’s a noticeable lack of trees. This is particularly concerning given that we’re located in the rainforest region.”
He emphasized the importance of tree planting for environmental conservation, public health, and mitigating climate change. “This is not just about beautifying the campus. The environmental benefits are significant, and we are taking this campaign very seriously,” Omoregie added.
Reflecting on his first task as Vice Chancellor, Omoregie recalled that it involved planting trees, underscoring his commitment to the environmental goals of the university.
The Vice Chancellor concluded by assuring the NUJ leadership of the university’s readiness to collaborate for the betterment of society.
Earlier, Festus Alenkhe, Chairman of the Edo State NUJ Council, congratulated Omoregie on his appointment and praised the strides the university has made under his leadership. Alenkhe assured the Vice Chancellor of the union’s continued support in achieving his five-point agenda for the institution.
