Cross River to plant one million trees on World Environment Day 2025

As part of activities marking the 2025 World Environment Day, the Cross River State Government, through the Ministry of Environment, has kicked off a tree-planting campaign, targeting the planting of over one million trees across its five urban centres.

This year’s celebration, themed “Ending Plastic Pollution Globally,” was observed on June 5, 2025.

Speaking at the event’s official kickoff, Moses Osogi, Commissioner for Environment, emphasised the need for responsible and proper disposal of plastic waste, noting that adopting proper waste management practices will not only help reduce plastic pollution but also mitigate its harmful effects on the environment and public health.

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Osogi announced that the state has earmarked over one million ornamental and economic trees for planting across the five Urban centres of the state. The initiative aims to promote climate change mitigation and enhance the aesthetic value of the five designated urban areas.

To flag off the initiative, the Commissioner, accompanied by officials from the ministry and various non-state actors, led a symbolic tree-planting exercise at the Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC) gate and the new roundabout, Calabar. He also revealed that efforts are ongoing to replace ageing and damaged trees across the state to prevent incidents of tree falls.

Similarly, as part of its corporate social responsibility, Lafarge Africa PLC, through its Mfamosing Plant Manager, Milad Hanna, donated 1,200 ornamental tree species to the state. Hanna stated that the gesture is in line with the company’s strategic commitment to partnering and promoting a healthier and more sustainable environment.

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The day’s events also featured a colourful carnival float aimed at raising public awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution and promoting environmental consciousness.

The commemorative ceremony for this year’s World Environment Day will culminate in a grand finale featuring inter-school competitions, keynote addresses, and paper presentations focused on environmental protection and sustainability.