A total of 260,000 tree seedlings have been distributed free of charge to 90,000 smallholder farmers in Kwara State. This initiative aims to enhance the environment, provide food nutrients, control erosion, and increase income among local farmers.
During the distribution event in Jebba, Moro local government area, Mr. Alfred Adzoyi, the team lead of One Acre Fund, highlighted the project’s goals. One Acre Fund, a non-governmental organization committed to securing the future through free seedlings, aims to boost the income of smallholder farmers in the state.
Adzoyi explained that each farmer received 27 tree seedlings. The project is designed to protect the environment, combat climate change, diversify farmers’ income, and improve soil fertility. The benefits of these trees include fast growth, fodder from leaves, erosion control, nitrogen fixation, and improved soil fertility.
“Soil quality improves when dropped leaves decompose, providing shade, boundary marking, and nutrients for food. The trees fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing fertility. Seeds can be sold for income, and the trees provide shade for crops, have medicinal properties, and offer drought resistance,” Adzoyi noted.
One Acre Fund began operations in Kwara State six years ago, initially starting in Niger State, with plans to expand the tree planting campaign to Nasarawa State.
Mr. Babatunde Idris, the director of forestry in the Ministry of Environment, who represented the state commissioner, praised the program. He emphasized that it complements Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s environmental efforts and boosts smallholder farmers’ financial capacities.
Beneficiaries of the project, including Hajia Funmilayo Lawal, Musa Salau, and community leader Chief Bello Samuel, expressed their gratitude. They believe the project will positively impact their environment and finances.
