Dangote Plants Hundreds of Trees to Mark Forest Day
By Patience Ikpeme
The Transport Unit of Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana, has carried out a large-scale tree-planting initiative and seedling distribution to commemorate the 2026 International Day of Forests.
The exercise, which involved the planting of hundreds of trees, also extended its reach to the educational sector by providing seedlings to 13 different schools. This outreach aims to foster environmental consciousness and practical conservation efforts within the host communities.
Speaking during the event, the Divisional Director of Transport, Col. Hemant Rana (Rtd), noted the essential nature of forest ecosystems in maintaining global stability. Represented by the Assistant Divisional Director of Transport, Mr. Abdullahi Aliyu, he explained that forests play a vital role in regulating the climate, supporting biodiversity, and providing essential resources for humans.
The company stated that the awareness sessions and demonstrations held during the event align with its goal of educating stakeholders while taking active measures to combat deforestation and environmental degradation.
“We believe that when we plant trees, we plant hope for cleaner air, better climate, and a more sustainable future,” Col. Rana stated. He added that the symbolic distribution of seedlings to schools is a deliberate step toward building a culture of environmental stewardship among the younger generation.
The 2026 celebration, themed “Forests and Economies,” focuses on the role of wooded areas in providing jobs, sustainable livelihoods, and economic resilience. As the largest employer in Nigeria outside of the government, the Dangote Group’s involvement reflects a corporate strategy that links environmental health with economic stability.
Contributing to the discussion, the Sustainability Lead for Dangote Cement Transport Nigeria, Mr. Olumide Balogun, described forests as much more than a collection of trees. He characterized them as life-support systems that regulate rainfall, improve air quality, prevent soil erosion, and provide habitats for various species.
Mr. Balogun encouraged all participants to take an active interest in the growth of the new plants, stating that the company intends to expand these efforts in the coming years. “As we mark today’s International Day of Forests, we are also renewing our commitment to expand this effort,” Mr. Balogun said. “We will continue to plant more trees, nurture those already planted, and work closely with our communities to ensure their survival and impact.”
Adding to this sentiment, the Human Resources and Admin Manager at the Transport’s Post Trip Inspection Unit, Mr. Marcos-Akuso Daniel, said the event served as a moment to look forward to future conservation goals. He noted that the company is focused on deepening community participation and strengthening its role as a responsible corporate citizen.
The International Day of Forests was established by the UN General Assembly in 2012 and is observed every March 21. It serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the importance of all types of forests and trees in providing food, medicine, and clean water to billions of people worldwide.
