In a bold step towards environmental restoration and sustainable agriculture, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to plant 20 billion trees during the upcoming rainy season. The initiative is part of a broader national reforestation strategy aimed at combating climate change, enhancing biodiversity, and improving rural livelihoods.

The announcement was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima during his recent visit to Ethiopia, where he toured a series of successful agricultural and industrial sites. These included Adama Dairy Farms, Luke Avocado Nursery, Shera Dibandiba Mojo Family Integrated Farm, Biyyo Poultry Farm, and Bishoftu Pea Farm—all celebrated for integrating innovation, job creation, and environmental sustainability.

Inspired by Ethiopia’s Green Legacy

Vice President Shettima used the opportunity to applaud Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, describing it as a model of how nations can align ecological goals with economic development. Ethiopia’s programme, which has already planted billions of trees, served as the inspiration for Nigeria’s massive 20 billion tree-planting goal.

“Achieving this ambitious target will require planning, community mobilization, and strong political will,” Shettima stated. “Ethiopia has shown us what is possible when a nation commits to sustainability. Nigeria is ready to follow that path and even scale it up.”

He emphasized that with Nigeria and Ethiopia jointly accounting for over 350 million people, strategic collaboration between both countries is key to Africa’s renaissance and food system transformation.

Driving Agricultural Innovation and Bilateral Growth

The visit also reinforced the importance of agricultural diplomacy. The Nigerian delegation expressed interest in learning from Ethiopia’s transformation from a wheat-importing country to a regional exporter. According to Shettima, such success stories provide a roadmap for Nigeria to replicate—particularly in the face of food insecurity and rural underdevelopment.

Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, echoed this sentiment, describing the tour as a turning point in Nigeria’s strategy to scale up agribusiness and climate resilience.

“President Tinubu is keen on applying lessons from Ethiopia. We’re focusing on strengthening the agricultural value chain and exploring export opportunities in crops such as avocado, pineapple, mango, cashew, and cocoa,” Uzoma said.

Reforestation as a Climate and Economic Strategy

The tree-planting initiative is not just about combating desertification or mitigating climate risks—it’s a key pillar in Nigeria’s green economy agenda. By increasing forest cover, the government aims to reduce carbon emissions, restore degraded ecosystems, and generate green jobs for youth and rural dwellers.

This move complements other ongoing efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy away from oil dependence while boosting its standing in sustainable agriculture, agroforestry, and climate adaptation.

Looking Ahead

With preparations underway, stakeholders across the agriculture, environment, and development sectors are optimistic. The 20 billion tree campaign, if fully executed, could redefine Nigeria’s approach to environmental sustainability, food security, and international collaboration.