NEPL/Seplat JV and Edo State Join Forces for Massive Reforestation Initiative

In a landmark move towards environmental conservation and sustainable development, the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited/Seplat Energy Joint Venture (NEPL/Seplat JV) has forged a strategic partnership with the Edo State Government. The agreement entails the allocation of 6,000 hectares of land from Edo’s protected forest reserves to facilitate a large-scale tree planting initiative by Seplat Energy Plc.

This collaboration, a testament to the commitment of both parties, aims to address the pressing need for increased forest cover and carbon sequestration efforts in the region. Selected as the implementing partner for the reforestation project, Seplat Energy pledges to plant millions of indigenous trees on the designated land over the next five years.

At the agreement signing ceremony held at the Edo State Government House, Managing Director of Seplat West Limited, Ayodele Olatunde, emphasized the global significance of the partnership in mitigating climate change’s adverse effects. Olatunde highlighted the economic, social, and environmental benefits that the initiative promises, including job creation, biodiversity conservation, and improved ecosystem health.

Echoing these sentiments, Edo State Commissioner for Environment & Sustainability, Joshua Omokhodion, underscored the importance of concerted efforts to combat climate change. He emphasized the scientific rationale behind the initiative, emphasizing its potential to create a conducive environment for both humans and wildlife.

Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs & Social Performance at Seplat Energy, expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government for their collaboration in this sustainable endeavor. She emphasized the project’s role in advancing shared goals of environmental conservation and sustainable land use, while also promoting local economic growth and wildlife preservation.

Representing NEPL, Nicolas Foucart, underscored the urgency of addressing the global warming crisis, emphasizing the conservative nature of the Tree4Life project in mitigating environmental degradation caused by human activities. Teasoo Consulting Limited played a facilitating role in the agreement signing ceremony, further cementing the commitment of all parties involved to this transformative environmental initiative