Polaris
Bank Limited has collaborated with the University of Ibadan (UI) and the
Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) on environmental conservation through a
tree planting initiative.
This
was disclosed during a courtesy visit to the UI Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kayode
Adebowale, by representatives of Polaris Bank Ltd and the Nigerian Conservation
Foundation (NCF).
During the visit, Polaris Executive Director, Corporate & Investment Banking, Abimbola Ozomah, mentioned that the initiative is part of the bank’s corporate social responsibility efforts.
Ozomah
explained that the initiative stemmed from the bank’s desire to continuously
contribute positively to the environment and communities, as well as to
commemorate World Environment Day on June 5, 2024.
She
highlighted that the theme for World Environment Day 2024 centres on land
restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, in alignment with the
United Nations’ ecosystem restoration goals.
Ozomah
said that Polaris Bank Ltd is committed to sustainable practices and land
restoration through the nationwide planting of economic trees.
According
to her, the bank’s sustainability practices include promoting responsible
banking, empowering people and society, addressing environmental issues, and
ensuring sustainable economic growth.
Mr.
Adedayo Memudu, Senior Manager of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation,
stressed that the organization encourages Nigerian citizens to appreciate
nature and thrive while living in harmony with it.
He
noted that one of the NCF’s core values is its commitment to partnership
development, which is why it has partnered with Polaris Bank Ltd to enhance the
bank’s corporate social responsibility and sustainability platforms.
The
visit culminated in the consequent actual planting of trees at a designated
site on the university campus.
A
Memorandum of Understanding will later be signed between the University of
Ibadan, Polaris Bank Ltd, and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation.
Speaking
on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, UI Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu Saliu, reaffirmed
the university’s commitment to conserving campus vegetation and promoting a
greener environment to improve individuals’ well-being.
Saliu
pointed out that the large number of ‘Iroko’ trees on the University of Ibadan
campus serves as evidence of the institution’s intentional conservation
efforts, despite broader environmental challenges in Nigeria and globally.
He
explained that the university does not allow indiscriminate felling of trees
but enforces a structured process for tree removal.
The
registrar also noted that as part of the UI@75 anniversary celebrations, the
university initiated a project to plant 1,000 trees, which will be adopted by
well-meaning Nigerians, with the university providing the necessary support for
their sustainability.
He
stressed the importance of collaboration between the academic community and
broader society, stating that both sectors must work together to address shared
environmental challenges.
Saliu
expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of organizations to tackle
common challenges in Nigeria and appreciated Polaris Bank Ltd for partnering
with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation in the tree planting initiative.
Polaris Bank kick-started the nationwide tree planting initiative for
land restoration on July 1, 2024 at the Tai Solarin University of Education
(TASUED), Ijagun, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State; it then Proceeded to Ajingi Community
Reserve, Kunkurawa, in Kano, Kano State on August 30, and next at the
University of Ibadan on October 3.
Polaris
Bank is known for taking proactive measures in addressing challenges of
development and sustainability, including environmental and social issues.
The Bank supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles (NSBPs), and the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI’s) Principles of Responsible Banking.
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