Polaris Bank Expands Tree-Planting Initiative to Abuja and Anambra
Polaris Bank, in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), has extended its tree-planting initiative to Abuja and Anambra State, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The latest exercise took place on 14th October at Government Secondary School, Gwagwalada, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following a similar event held earlier at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Anambra. Professor K.K. Nwozor commended Polaris Bank for its dedication to conservation, acknowledging its efforts towards a greener Nigeria.
This initiative aligns with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), which advocates for urgent action to restore degraded landscapes and combat desertification and drought. The bank’s activities also reflect the theme of the 2024 World Environment Day, emphasising the importance of sustainable practices in restoring ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity nationwide.
Speaking at the Abuja event, Osazuwa Igbinoba, Directorate Head for Abuja, highlighted the bank’s approach to sustainability: “Sustainability is embedded in our business strategy and actions at Polaris Bank.” Igbinoba added that the tree-planting efforts are not only intended to restore ecosystems but also involve the cultivation of economic trees, contributing to a sustainable environment for future generations.
Chiwetalu Nwatu, Directorate Head for the South East, echoed these views, noting that the bank’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond financial services. “At Polaris Bank, responsible banking is intertwined with societal empowerment and environmental responsibility,” Nwatu stated, stressing that the bank’s operations are underpinned by Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
The tree-planting initiative addresses critical environmental issues such as soil erosion, air quality improvement, and climate regulation by absorbing carbon dioxide. Polaris Bank’s efforts form part of a broader, nationwide campaign that has seen similar activities at various educational institutions and community reserves.
In recent months, the bank has carried out tree-planting exercises at Tai Solarin University, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, on 1st July; Ajingi Community Reserve, Kunkurawa, Kano State, on 30th August; and the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, on 3rd October. These efforts demonstrate Polaris Bank’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and environmental restoration.
The initiative also serves as a public call to action, encouraging individuals, communities, and organisations to embrace environmental preservation. Polaris Bank, through its partnership with the NCF, aims to inspire others to engage in ecosystem restoration and promote sustainability throughout Nigeria.
By combining corporate responsibility with environmental stewardship, Polaris Bank is championing a greener future for the country, ensuring that both present and future generations benefit from a healthier environment.
