Polaris Bank, NCF take tree planting initiative to Kano

File photo: Trees planting

Polaris Bank Limited, in partnership with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation, has taken its tree planting initiative, aimed at nationwide land restoration, to Kano State.

A statement from the bank revealed that a commemorative tree planting activity was held at Ajingi Community Reserve, Kunkurawa, Kano recently.

Polaris Bank commenced a tree-planting scheme to commemorate World Environment Day in June.

The 2024 theme focuses on ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience’.

According to the bank, the initiative took off at the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

In his goodwill message, Polaris Bank’s Divisional Head, North, Mahmud Kawu, who represented the bank’s chief executive officer, Lawal Akintola, expressed the bank’s unwavering commitment to the tree-planting initiative, highlighting how deeply it aligned with its values and dedication to a greener future.

“At Polaris Bank, sustainability is more than a catchphrase; it is the core of who we are. We are on a dedicated journey to uphold this ethos with conviction. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of our operations, from promoting responsible banking and empowering communities to tackling environmental challenges and driving economic growth.

“We ensure that every decision we make, from investments to day-to-day operations, is rooted in strong Environmental, Social, and Governance principles,” he said.

The bank CEO explained that the partnership between Polaris Bank and the NCF is borne out of its conviction of the foundation’s dedication to encouraging sustainable economic growth and appreciating the importance of environmental preservation.

He also encouraged residents to be key to the scheme to bring about sustainable environmental preservation.

“Today’s tree planting initiative at Ajingi Community Reserve, Kunkurawa, in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation is a testament to our commitment to environmental sustainability. The NCF is a renowned non-governmental organisation dedicated to sustainable development and nature conservation in Nigeria. Polaris Bank shares its dedication to encouraging sustainable economic growth and appreciating the importance of environmental preservation.

“This project aligns perfectly with the theme of World Environment Day, and in addition to reducing carbon footprints and enhancing our natural ecosystem, it aims to raise public awareness about the importance of environmental preservation,” he affirmed.

Akintola highlighted the benefits of the bank’s tree-planting initiative, including the restoration of degraded areas and prevention of soil erosion, among others.

“The benefits of our tree-planting initiative cannot be overemphasised. It contributes significantly to the restoration of degraded areas, the prevention of soil erosion, and the enhancement of the biodiversity of the area. Additionally, by absorbing CO2 and helping to regulate the climate, trees play a crucial role in reducing overall carbon footprints.

“In conclusion, the tree-planting project is a testament to Polaris Bank’s dedication to environmental stewardship and community well-being, promoting a greener future through corporate responsibility,” he noted.