UBA Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, is taking bold strides to lead Africa’s green revolution and combat climate change. Through its 2024 Tree Planting Campaign, themed “Our Land: Grooming a Greener Future,”the foundation aims to plant one million trees across Africa by 2025 as part of a broader commitment to environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the launch of the campaign, UBA Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Oliver Alawuba reaffirmed the bank’s strong dedication to sustainability and the well-being of the planet. During a symbolic tree planting ceremony at the UBA Foundation Garden in Marina, Lagos, Alawuba stated, “We must work to save the planet, and we commit that UBA will plant one million trees across Africa by the end of 2024. Trees are essential not only for carbon reduction but also for lowering urban temperatures by at least 12 degrees Celsius, reducing the risk of heat-related crises.”
Alawuba emphasized the simplicity of tree planting as a tool for driving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11, which focuses on sustainable cities and communities. He highlighted that recent flooding in Nigeria is a consequence of global warming, stressing that planting trees is a small yet impactful action everyone can take to create a healthier environment.
Bola Atta, Managing Director/CEO of UBA Foundation, noted that the tree planting initiative goes beyond symbolism. “These trees are powerful agents of change in our fight against climate change,” she said. Atta stressed the need to return to healthier living environments for future generations, explaining that trees play a vital role in purifying the air, reducing the impact of floods, and preventing the displacement of communities.
Also in attendance was Mrs. Funto Aina, representing Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK), who commended UBA Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation. Aina acknowledged that UBA’s efforts align with the Lagos State Government’s objectives of nurturing the future through tree planting, praising the foundation’s collaboration with LASPARK in recent years.
UBA Foundation has long been dedicated to improving the socio-economic conditions of the communities in which it operates, with a particular focus on education, environment, economic empowerment, and special projects. Through initiatives like the Tree Planting Campaign, UBA is actively contributing to the fight against climate change while fostering a greener future for Africa.
