Polaris Bank, collaborating with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), has expanded its tree planting initiative to key locations across Nigeria, including the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in Ogun State, and Sardauna Memorial College in Kaduna State.
Launched in 2024 during the Bank’s World Environment Day activities, the initiative underscores Polaris Bank’s commitment to combating climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable environmental practices.
Lagos Event Highlights Environmental Commitment
The Lagos edition at the iconic Lekki Conservation Centre saw the participation of Executive Directors Chris Ofikulu and Sharafadeen Muhammad, alongside NCF representatives.
Chris Ofikulu, Executive Director of Commercial and Retail, highlighted the initiative’s significance, noting it reinforces Polaris Bank’s dedication to environmental sustainability. He recalled leading the Bank’s first tree planting activity in 2024 at TASUED, Ogun State.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, aiming to secure a greener future for generations. “Sustainability is not just a responsibility; it is a business imperative for Polaris Bank,” he said, adding that the Bank remains committed to the collective goal of planting 10,000 trees.
Sharafadeen Muhammad, Executive Director of Operations, noted that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. He encouraged the creation of natural reserves that conserve ecosystems while generating economic value, reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to the initiative.
Ogun State: Driving Environmental Sustainability
In Ogun State, Divisional Head Yetunde Okeleye emphasized that planting economic trees demonstrates Polaris Bank’s ethos of sustainability.
“Our partnership with NCF at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, highlights our commitment to restoring degraded land, preventing soil erosion, and combating climate change,” Okeleye stated. She described the initiative as a reflection of the Bank’s role in promoting environmental stewardship and community well-being.
Kaduna State: Sustainability as a Core Value
In Kaduna, Acting Group Head Kabir Lawal, with staff from local branches, reaffirmed that sustainability is central to the Bank’s culture.
“Every decision is guided by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, ensuring we address environmental challenges while empowering communities,” Lawal said. The tree planting at Sardauna Memorial College, in collaboration with NCF, aims to restore degraded areas, prevent soil erosion, improve environmental health, and raise awareness about conservation.
NCF and Community Recognition
NCF praised Polaris Bank’s leadership, highlighting that the selected fruit-bearing and shade-providing trees offer multiple benefits, including erosion control, wind breaking, shade, and food security.
Community representatives from FUNAAB and Sardauna College expressed gratitude to Polaris Bank and NCF, describing the initiative as timely and impactful in addressing global climate challenges.
Commitment to Sustainability and Community Development
Polaris Bank continues to integrate sustainability into its operations, ensuring climate action and community development are core to its growth strategy. Through initiatives like this, the Bank reinforces its role as a catalyst for positive environmental and social impact.
