Polaris Bank Limited has launched a significant tree planting initiative in collaboration with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. The initiative, aimed at land restoration and environmental sustainability, began on Monday at the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The tree planting project, held in front of the university’s council chamber, was inaugurated by the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olumide Banjo, represented by his deputy, Prof. Adekunle Adeogun. Prof. Adeogun expressed profound gratitude for Polaris Bank’s support for the university.
Polaris Bank Executive Director, Chris Ofikulu, emphasized that the initiative aligns with the 2024 World Environment Day theme, “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” and the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030). Ofikulu highlighted the bank’s commitment to sustainable practices and land restoration by planting trees nationwide, starting in Ogun State.
“At Polaris Bank, sustainability is not just a catchphrase. It is our ethos. It is a journey in which we are committed to walk in with conviction,” Ofikulu stated. He added that the bank’s sustainability practices focus on responsible banking, empowering society, addressing environmental issues, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
The tree planting at TASUED marks the beginning of the bank’s initiative, which involves planting 500 trees in total—250 seedlings at the university and another 250 in a different part of Ogun State to be determined later. This project signifies Polaris Bank’s dedication to environmental stewardship and community well-being, promoting a greener future through corporate responsibility.
Prof. Banjo, represented by Prof. Adeogun, praised Polaris Bank for its longstanding relationship with TASUED, which began with the former Skye Bank in 2007. He appealed for continued support, promising mutual benefits from the ongoing partnership.
Ayodele Alamu, Senior Manager of Partnerships at NCF, highlighted the initiative’s goal of achieving afforestation and restoring Nigeria’s forest cover. Alamu pointed out that deforestation has reduced the country’s forest cover from 30% to between 6% and 8%, causing significant environmental challenges such as land degradation and erosion. He emphasized the importance of such projects in combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Mrs. Bukola Oluyadi, Group Head of Customer Experience and Value Management, Rasheed Yusuf, Group Head of Ondo/Ekiti, Abiodun Daramola, Group Head of Ogun/Oyo, and Yemi Akinrelere, Head of Sustainability and Consumer Protection, among others.