By Halima Imam
The journey of the “Befriend a Tree” initiative began in a time of uncertainty and quiet resolve. It was the early days, before the world was swept up in the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, when my small group of environmental enthusiasts in Abuja conceived the idea of planting trees, not just as an act of environmental stewardship, but as a gesture of hope, resilience, and connection.
The initiative, though modest in its inception, was driven by a simple yet powerful belief: that each tree planted could be a beacon of change, a symbol of care for the earth, and a gift to future generations. But as the world soon descended into the pandemic, with lockdowns and isolation becoming the new norm, the “Befriend a Tree” initiative seemed to be a dream deferred.
It was during these challenging times that a lifeline appeared, one that would not only revive the project but propel it into something far greater than originally imagined. A grant from Abuja Global Shapers provided the much-needed support to bring the idea to life. With this grant in hand, I, alongside my young and passionate team members, students of NTIC Abuja, set out to breathe life into our vision.
In those early days of the pandemic, the streets of Abuja were eerily quiet, and yet, they became the backdrop for an extraordinary act of community and environmental stewardship. Armed with seedlings, we took to the roads, offering these young trees to strangers we encountered along the way, shyly telling them to accept from us their new friends and urging them to name the plants. The surprise and gratitude in their eyes told us everything we needed to know, we were planting more than just trees; we were planting hope and friendship in the hearts of those who felt the weight of uncertainty.
We did not stop there. Our mission extended to our families and friends, who were equally surprised and touched by the gesture. The act of gifting a seedling became a symbol of love, connection, and the belief that even in times of separation, we could still nurture life and growth.
Word of our initiative spread, reaching far beyond the borders of Abuja. It was during this time that Joan Gregerson, an American environmentalist and the founder of Green Team Academy, discovered our campaign. Joan, known for her deep commitment to environmental causes, was so impressed by our work that she wrote about it in her book, titlred, Climate Action Challenge. To be recognized by someone of her stature was not only an honor but also a testament to the impact of our efforts.
Year after year, the “Befriend a Tree” initiative has continued to grow, just like the trees we have planted. Each planting season, we set our sights on different communities across Abuja, selecting economically viable trees that would not only thrive but also benefit the local populations. From Chika to Karon Majiji, Aleyita to Gwako, and many other communities, we have left a trail of green that stretches across the city.
The acceptance we received from the chiefs and community members in these areas was nothing short of heartwarming. In each village, we were welcomed with open arms and grateful smiles. The chiefs, often the gatekeepers of their communities, recognized the value of our work and supported us wholeheartedly. They saw the potential of the trees to provide shade, fruit, and economic benefits, and they welcomed our young team with the respect and encouragement that fueled our determination.
In Karon Majiji, a chief shared a story with us about how the trees would remind future generations of the time when the world stood still, but their community continued to grow. In Gwako, we were invited to join a community celebration, where the trees we planted became the centerpiece of their festivities, a symbol of life and renewal.
Each community we visited added its own chapter to the story of the “Befriend a Tree” initiative, and each tree we planted became a living testament to the power of collective action. We were not just planting trees; we were sowing seeds of change, hope, and a brighter future.
The journey of the “Befriend a Tree” initiative is far from over. As we continue to plant, nurture, and grow, we remain committed to our mission of connecting people to the earth and to each other. In a world that is constantly changing, we have found our anchor in the simple act of planting a tree, a gesture that speaks to the enduring power of nature and the human spirit.
As the years have passed, the “Befriend a Tree” initiative has become more than just an environmental campaign; it has evolved into a movement that touches lives, fosters community bonds, and cultivates a deep respect for nature. Each tree planted carries with it the stories of the people who nurtured it, the communities that embraced it, and the vision of a greener, more sustainable future for Nigeria.
In the lush landscapes of Chika, our trees have grown tall, offering shade to children who now play beneath their branches. The once barren fields of Karon Majiji have transformed into thriving green spaces, where the air is fresher, and the sense of community is stronger. In Aleyita, mothers gather around the trees for women in community meetings, their voices echoing the wisdom of generations past, while in Gwako, the trees stand as silent witnesses to the resilience of a community that continues to thrive against all odds.
The support we’ve received from local leaders and elders has been invaluable. In each village, the chiefs not only welcomed us but also actively participated in the planting process. They understood that the trees were more than just physical entities, they were symbols of hope, prosperity, and continuity. Their acceptance and encouragement have paved the way for our initiative to flourish in places where change is often met with resistance.
One of the most touching moments occurred in Gishiri, where an elder, who said he had witnessed many changes in his lifetime, took a young seedling in his hands and planted it with a prayer for future generations. He spoke of how the tree would grow and provide for his grandchildren, how its roots would dig deep into the earth, anchoring the community in its rightful place. His words were a powerful reminder that our actions today will shape the world of tomorrow.
The trees we have planted in communities like Kwali, Dagiri, Angwan Dodo, Kuchin Goro, Lugbe, Kiyi, and Chukuku are not just surviving, they are thriving. They have become part of the fabric of these communities, providing food, shade, and even a source of income for many. The fruit trees, in particular, have been a boon for local women, who now have access to fresh produce that they can sell in local markets, adding an extra stream of income to support their families.
As we look to the future, the “Befriend a Tree” initiative continues to grow in scope and ambition. We are committed to expanding our reach, planting more trees in more communities, and engaging even more people in our mission. We envision a Nigeria where every community is enriched by the presence of trees, where every child grows up with the knowledge that they can make a difference, one tree at a time.
In a world where challenges often seem insurmountable, the “Befriend a Tree” initiative stands as a beacon of hope. It is a reminder that even the smallest actions can have a profound impact. A single seedling, placed in the hands of a stranger, can grow into something much greater, a symbol of resilience, community, and the enduring power of nature.
As we plant, nurture, and grow, we remain steadfast in our commitment to making the world a greener, more connected place. The trees we plant today will be the legacy we leave for tomorrow, a legacy of hope, of life, and of a future where every community is strong, sustainable, and filled with the promise of growth.
As we continue to nurture the seeds of change through our “Befriend a Tree” initiative, we recognize that the road ahead requires the collective effort of all who believe in the power of a greener, more sustainable future. The challenges of funding this vital project have grown, but our resolve remains unwavering. We invite all well-meaning Nigerians who share our vision to join us in this journey. Whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your contribution can make a lasting impact. Together, we can continue to plant the trees that will not only sustain our communities but also inspire hope for generations to come.
*Imam is Founder of Climate Action Team
