Abdulrasaq Kamaldeen
Tackling Climate Change in Sokoto: UDUS Students’ Green Initiative
In the arid heat of Northern Nigeria, where temperatures at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) often surpass 40 degrees Celsius, students face daily battles against the harsh climate.
Yet, amid these challenges, a group of enterprising students have embarked on a mission to transform their environment and promote sustainability.
Members of Junior Chamber International (JCI) at UDUS, along with other committed students, have launched a series of green initiatives aimed at creating a cooler and more habitable campus.
Their transformative tree-planting exercise, which spanned the walkway from Jatau Bridge to the bus stop, has turned a previously sun-baked path into a shaded refuge for students and staff alike.
Shedding more light on the initiative, Imam Taofeeq, a 400-level student and the current vice president of JCI-UDUS spoke in an interview with the Harbinger.
He said, “In an environment like Sokoto, where the sun often rises above 40 degrees Celsius, the need to mitigate climate change cannot be underestimated. By planting these trees, we can provide shade and help ease the hot weather,” he explained.
Despite facing resource challenges, the association’s efforts have been bolstered by a dedicated group of volunteers under the supervision of Staff Adviser Prof. Jimoh Olaiye Amzat.
“We appreciate the efforts of JCI members, staff advisers, and external participants attracted by our brand awareness,” Taofeeq noted.
On February 1, 2022, former Minister of Environment Sharon Ikeazor announced the success of the National Afforestation Programme under the Green Bond project.
The project, implemented by the Forest Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), National Agency for Great Green Wall (NAGGW), and other stakeholders, has forested over 6 million hectares and raised over 6.5 million seedlings distributed to various institutions and state governments
The importance of such initiatives is underscored by organizations like Food and Trees for Africa (FTFA), which emphasize the crucial role of trees in mitigating climate change, pandemics, and social unrest.
FTFA highlights that trees serve as ecosystem engineers, providing habitats for innumerable plant and animal species, filtering rainwater, and improving water quality.
Additionally, trees represent natural capital and a key component of green infrastructure, regulating environmental processes like climate regulation, pollination, and air quality, and offering aesthetic and health benefits.
The National Forest Foundation further explained that trees play a vital role in the carbon cycle. Through photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight to produce sugars that feed the tree and emit oxygen, benefiting the environment. 
Advocates for Climate Change
Among the advocates for this green initiative is Imam Taofeeqah Ahmad, a 500-level Animal Science student, who expressed her enthusiasm: “I feel great and very excited to contribute positively to climate change. The turn-out was encouraging, and I believe in community development and rendering service to humanity.”
Moreso, Adedeji Jubril Abisade, a 400-level Computer Science student and General Legal Counsel of JCI-UDUS, emphasized the project’s purpose: “The reason behind planting the trees is to reduce the harsh climate, especially during the hot season. The challenge we faced was raising funds.”
Usman Kabiru Sonfada, a 500-level Animal Science student and Treasurer of JCI-UDUS, highlighted the project’s impact: “Sokoto’s scorching heat often makes it challenging for students to attend lectures comfortably. JCIN UDUS initiated the tree-planting project to provide a cooler and more conducive learning environment.”
Overcoming Challenges and Future Plans
Sonfada noted the difficulties faced during the project: “We wanted to plant 100 trees but managed only 50 seedlings, donated by the Sokoto State Ministry of Environment. We aimed to plant at the new Faculty of Engineering but were limited by insufficient seedlings.”
Yusuf Abdulrazak, a 100-level Microbiology student, praised the initiative: “Planting trees provides shade, shelter, fresh air, and oxygen. It also improves mental health, well-being, and offers opportunities for outdoor learning and a connection to nature.”
Aminu Ahmad Yasir, a 200-level Law student, added: “Tree shade reduces temperature and provides a place for rest and relaxation. It serves as an abode when our rooms are overheating.”
