EDO FORESTRY COMMISSION CHAIRMAN HOSTS NIGERIAN RED CROSS SOCIETY, URGES YOUTHS TO VENTURE INTO FORESTRY, DONATES 1,000 SEEDLINGS
The Chairman of the Edo State Forestry Commission, Hon. Valentine Asuen, hosted members of the Red Cross Society of Nigeria at the commission's headquarters in Benin City. During the visit, Hon. Asuen encouraged Nigerian youths to consider careers in forestry, emphasizing its potential for environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, and job creation.
Hon. Asuen donated 1,000 seedlings to the Edo State Chapter of the Red Cross Society of Nigeria as part of the commission's efforts to promote tree planting, forest conservation, and environmental protection across Edo State. "Forestry is a vital sector that offers substantial opportunities for youths to contribute to environmental sustainability while earning a living," Asuen stated. "We urge Nigerian youths – to consider careers in forestry; it is a field that not only protects our environment but also holds great potential for economic growth and development."
The Edo Forestry Boss emphasized the commission's commitment to collaborating with stakeholders, including civil society organizations like the Red Cross, to drive sustainable forest management, combat deforestation, and restore degraded forest lands in Edo State. "Through partnerships like this, we can make significant strides in protecting our forests, mitigating climate change, and improving livelihoods in our communities," Asuen noted.
The Edo State Coordinator of the Red Cross Society of Nigeria expressed appreciation for the gesture and pledged the organization's continued support for the Edo Forestry Commission's initiatives. "We are grateful for this donation of seedlings and the call to action for youths. The Red Cross Society will work with the Forestry Commission to promote environmental sustainability and support tree planting campaigns across Edo State."
Hon. Valentine Asuen also took the opportunity to express appreciation for the unwavering commitment of His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, towards reforestation programs in the state.
The donation and advocacy are part of Edo State Government's broader efforts to promote sustainable forest management, with a Plantation Strategy aimed at restoring degraded forests and promoting economic development through sustainable forestry practices.