Polaris Bank Limited, in partnership with the University of Ibadan (UI) and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), has launched an environmental conservation initiative focused on tree planting. This collaboration aims to support land restoration efforts and promote sustainable practices across the country.
The initiative was unveiled during a courtesy visit to the UI Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, by representatives from Polaris Bank and the NCF. Abimbola Ozomah, Executive Director of Corporate and Investment Banking at Polaris Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment to environmental sustainability as part of its corporate social responsibility.
“The initiative is our contribution to the environment and communities, marking World Environment Day 2024, which focuses on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, in line with the United Nations’ ecosystem restoration goals,” Ozomah said. She further emphasized Polaris Bank’s commitment to sustainable practices, including responsible banking, empowering communities, and addressing environmental issues through economic tree planting across the country.
Adedayo Memudu, Senior Manager of the NCF, expressed the foundation’s dedication to environmental preservation, encouraging Nigerians to appreciate and live in harmony with nature. He commended the partnership with Polaris Bank, which aligns with NCF’s goal of fostering collaborations for sustainable development.
On behalf of UI, Registrar Ganiyu Saliu reaffirmed the university’s dedication to environmental conservation. He cited the campus’s abundance of ‘Iroko’ trees as evidence of the institution’s commitment to preserving greenery. He also mentioned the university’s plan to plant 1,000 trees as part of its UI@75 anniversary celebrations, which will be supported by well-meaning Nigerians to ensure their long-term sustainability.
The tree planting initiative commenced at Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, on July 1, 2024, continued in Ajingi Community Reserve in Kano State on August 30, and reached the University of Ibadan on October 3. The partnership will culminate in a Memorandum of Understanding between UI, Polaris Bank, and the NCF to ensure continued environmental efforts.
Polaris Bank’s initiative supports global sustainability goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles (NSBPs), and the UNEP Finance Initiative’s Principles of Responsible Banking.