An NGO, Bridge That Gap Initiative on Friday led the distribution of over 2,000 trees across communities in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State to promote grassroot climate resilience.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with Hope for Africa Initiative and supported by the Nigeria Conservation Foundation, marks the completion of the first phase of a 5,000-tree afforestation campaign under the Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance.
Zinta Apkpoko, Programme Officer of Bridge That Gap, said the initiative was driven by the urgent need to engage local communities in nature-based solutions to climate change.
“We believe in empowering communities to act. Tree planting is not just about ecology it is about health, livelihoods and climate justice,” he said.
The traditional ruler, Malam Ishaku Yari, Sa Gbagyi, said the closing ceremony saw the allocation of 1,300 forest trees and 700 fruit trees to public institutions and households.
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Yari welcomed the campaign, calling for intensified greening around the palace and in adjoining communities.
“Let this street provide shade for everyone. A green environment secures our future,” he said.
Beneficiaries included schools, religious centres, health facilities, and individuals.
The species distributed included both climate resilient trees such as teak, eucalyptus, and gmelina and economically beneficial fruit trees like guava, soursop, cashew, orange, palm, and date palm.
Lydia Saleh of the Network of Civil Societies in Environment, commended Bridge That Gap for championing local ownership of climate action.
“This campaign offers communities a practical and symbolic way to respond to the climate crisis,” she said.
Rose Otitoyomi, a beneficiary, described the project as empowering.
“These trees will feed my family, clean the air, and give me something valuable to nurture,” she said.
Shadrach Hassan, Wambai Rido Gbagyi, said the initiative had inspired him to promote tree planting among faith-based groups.
According to Bridge That Gap, the approach ensures inclusive participation, with forest trees assigned to public spaces and fruit trees distributed to households blending environmental goals with economic benefit.
The organisation said the second phase would deepen outreach to more vulnerable communities, promoting sustainable land use and ecosystem restoration.