The Nigerian Army has taken a pioneering role in inspiring and training Nigerians in tree planting and food cultivation, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and food security. This initiative was highlighted during a tree planting ceremony at the Infantry Zoological Garden in Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna, led by Maj-Gen. Henry Wesley, the Chief of Special Service and Programmes.
Wesley emphasized the symbolic and significant nature of the tree planting ceremony, viewing it as an opportunity to project the Army’s commitment to environmental sustainability to the world. He noted that this initiative predates the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is unique within Sub-Saharan Africa. The Nigerian Army has established the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches department, which focuses on crop development and animal husbandry, as part of its broader efforts to promote environmental conservation.
Additionally, Maj-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe, Commander of TRADOC, discussed the development of the Infantry Zoological Garden, soon to be renamed the Nigerian Army Conservation Education Centre. This facility was initially set up in 2020 to create a therapeutic environment for families residing in Jaji and to advocate for conservation. The garden also houses specimens of all the mascots of the Nigerian Army, serving as a symbolic “library of mascots.”
The Army’s efforts aim to educate the younger generation on the vital culture of tree planting and conservation, with aspirations to affiliate the center with global conservation and wildlife organizations. This initiative reflects the Army’s commitment to expanding its scope in environmental conservation and raising awareness about the dangers of deforestation to human and food security in Nigeria.