The Akure-Owena Lions Club has reinforced its commitment to environmental sustainability with the planting of 50 Teak tree seedlings at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), as part of efforts to promote afforestation, climate action, and environmental conservation.
The initiative, which goes beyond ceremonial tree planting, is backed by a comprehensive Tree Care Programme designed to ensure the seedlings are nurtured and monitored until maturity.
Speaking during the exercise, President of Akure-Owena Lions Club, Prof. Adekunle Ayokanmi Dada, said the project reflects the club's long-term commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
According to him, the club has entered into a partnership with FUTA and the Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to ensure the trees are adequately maintained and protected throughout their growth cycle.
He explained that the club would provide periodic progress reports on the trees to both the university management and the ministry, adding that the initiative forms part of Lions Club International's global environmental sustainability agenda.
"Our responsibility does not end with planting these trees. We have established a Tree Care Programme that will ensure continuous monitoring and nurturing of the seedlings until they reach maturity. This is our contribution towards creating a healthier environment for future generations," Dada said.
He disclosed that upon maturity, the 50 Teak trees would be formally handed over to FUTA as a lasting environmental legacy and contribution to nature preservation within the institution.
Dada also commended members of Akure-Owena Lions Club and its mentoring clubs — Akure Emerald Lions Club, Ikare Diaspora Lions Club, and Ilaje Coastal Lions Club — for supporting the initiative.
He described the tree planting exercise as a collective effort aimed at building a greener and healthier environment while strengthening community participation in environmental stewardship.
Responding on behalf of the university, the Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Tope Amos, expressed appreciation to the Lions Club for selecting the institution as the beneficiary of the project.
According to him, the Teak plantation will serve as a valuable resource for the university's Forestry and Wood Technology programmes while supporting practical learning and research activities.
He noted that the trees would particularly benefit thousands of students undertaking industrial training and forestry-related studies across the country.
"The project will significantly enhance our Forestry and Woods programmes and strengthen our research efforts in sustainable development. We assure the Lions Club that the university will nurture these trees to accelerated growth and ensure they become a valuable asset to the institution," Amos said.
He added that the initiative would further enhance FUTA's reputation as one of Nigeria's leading research-oriented institutions committed to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
A major highlight of the event was the introduction of Mission 1.5, a Lions Club membership growth initiative, which attracted interest from several management staff members of the university who indicated their willingness to support the formation of a Lions Club chapter within FUTA.
The interested participants were subsequently decorated with Lions Club pins, marking the beginning of what organisers described as a new phase of community service and environmental advocacy within the university community.
The tree planting initiative aligns with growing global efforts to combat climate change, increase carbon absorption, and promote sustainable environmental practices through afforestation and ecosystem restoration.