IITA Forest Center had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Sade Morgan, Nigerian Breweries Plc Corporate Affairs Director, to the Olokemeji Reforestation Project site on 20 February. Her visit marked a significant moment in the ongoing collaboration between Nigerian Breweries Plc and IITA Forest Center, reinforcing the shared commitment to environmental sustainability and community development.
During her visit, Morgan inspected one of the first pure water sources provided to the local community by Nigerian Breweries Plc. The water source, a critical resource in an area where clean drinking water has been a longstanding challenge, has become an invaluable asset to the residents. The community’s appreciation was evident, as access to clean water remains a primary necessity for their well-being.
She also toured the reforested areas of the Olokemeji Forest Reserve, where the once-degraded landscape is now beaming green with growing trees. The thriving trees visibly impressed her, as did the technical expertise the IITA Forest Center team demonstrated in executing the project’s goals. Her enthusiasm and appreciation were evident as she observed the variety of tree species contributing to biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration.
Giving her remarks, Morgan stated, “It is very satisfying to see the results of all the work that our partners, the staff, and the entire community here put in. Seeing the range of tree species planted and their contributions to biodiversity is truly inspiring.”
Looking ahead, she emphasized the importance of ensuring the project’s long-term sustainability. She called on the government to strengthen oversight measures to protect the growing forest from illegal loggers and other security threats. She also encouraged the local community to remain actively involved in safeguarding the trees, emphasizing that their commitment is crucial to the project’s success.
Additionally, Morgan reaffirmed Nigerian Breweries’ dedication to collaborating with IITA-CGIAR and other stakeholders to drive the project’s success and foster community ownership of the initiative. She expressed optimism about securing new partnerships to expand the project’s impact, ensuring that reforestation and biodiversity benefits conservation endure for generations.
Her visit reinvigorated the shared vision of all partners involved. With strengthened resolve, IITA Forest Center remains committed to advancing reforestation, conserving biodiversity, and enhancing ecosystem resilience—one tree at a time.
Contributed by Folake Oduntan
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