A multi-national oil firm, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited, SEEPCO, is preaching the gospel of tree planting to students, with a view to catching them young.
The company’s efforts have so far yielded results, as up to 5,500 tree saplings have been planted in 153 schools as part of the 10,000 total tree planting drive across six educational districts in Lagos, as envisioned by the company.
The latest drive is being carried out in partnership with the Lagos State government and an NGO, the Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), according to a statement from SEEPCO in line with the grow green initiative of promoting tree planting and nurturing among students in Lagos.
The school-based activities were done to commemorate this year’s World Environment Day to promote climate literacy and practical environmental action among students.
During the campaign, 202 students from Eva Adelaja Girls Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, Bariga, as well as Government Model Junior and Senior Colleges, Owutu, Ikorodu, 20 school teachers, 58 SEEPCO volunteers and community leaders participated, with up to 336 tree saplings planted in the two schools.
Participants were trained on waste segregation and shown how to separate waste into six categories- biodegradable, recyclable, hazardous, sanitary, electronic, and residual waste. This helped them understand how proper waste separation supports cleaner school grounds and healthier communities.
Participants were also introduced to composting processes and methods, with a focus on how biodegradable wastes such as food remains, leaves, and other organic materials can be converted into compost for soil enrichment and improved plant growth.
A SEEPCO volunteer also reflected on the emotional value of tree planting, saying: “I chose to dedicate the tree I planted to my late parents, my sister, and my brother-in-law. It was a deeply emotional moment for me. Knowing that these trees will continue to grow and give life makes me feel that their memory lives on through them. This experience meant far more to me than simply planting a tree, it became a lasting tribute to the people I love and miss.”
