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Ukorebi Esien | October 17, 2025
CALABAR — In a major step toward advancing environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation, the Cross River State Forestry Commission (CRSFC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Processed Wood Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria (PROWPMAN) to restore 5,000 hectares of degraded forest reserves across the three senatorial districts of the state.
The MOU, signed on Thursday in Calabar by the Chairman of the Forestry Commission, Ntufam Rt. Hon.. (Dr.) George Oben-Etchi, and the National President of PROWPMAN, Chief Ademola Christopher Oyaleke, mark the launch of a Sustainable Green Project targeted at the Oban Group Forest Reserve in Akamkpa Local Government Area (South), Okon River Forest Reserve in Edondon, Obubra LGA (Central), and Yache Forest Reserve in Alifokpa, Yala LGA (North).
According to Chief Oyaleke, the initiative is designed to promote sustainable forest practices, enhance biodiversity, and contribute to Nigeria's climate action commitments under international environmental frameworks. He noted that the project will also support local community development through green jobs and forest-based livelihoods.
In his remarks, the CRSFC Chairman, Hon. Oben-Etchi, described the partnership as a turning point in the state's effort to restore and sustain its forest heritage, assuring that the Commission would continue to operate transparently while documenting progress for future reference.
The Director of Forestry, Mr Donatus Adie, applauded both parties for what he termed a "forward-thinking collaboration," urging other stakeholders, including NGOs, community-based organizations, and private investors, to emulate the initiative rather than rely solely on government intervention.
CALABAR — In a major step toward advancing environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation, the Cross River State Forestry Commission (CRSFC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Processed Wood Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria (PROWPMAN) to restore 5,000 hectares of degraded forest reserves across the three senatorial districts of the state.
The MOU, signed on Thursday in Calabar by the Chairman of the Forestry Commission, Ntufam Rt. Hon.. (Dr.) George Oben-Etchi, and the National President of PROWPMAN, Chief Ademola Christopher Oyaleke, mark the launch of a Sustainable Green Project targeted at the Oban Group Forest Reserve in Akamkpa Local Government Area (South), Okon River Forest Reserve in Edondon, Obubra LGA (Central), and Yache Forest Reserve in Alifokpa, Yala LGA (North).
According to Chief Oyaleke, the initiative is designed to promote sustainable forest practices, enhance biodiversity, and contribute to Nigeria's climate action commitments under international environmental frameworks. He noted that the project will also support local community development through green jobs and forest-based livelihoods.
"This collaboration reflects our collective determination to restore degraded forest areas and promote responsible forest management," Oyaleke said. "With the unwavering support of the Cross River State Forestry Commission, PROWPMAN is recording its most successful afforestation effort yet in Nigeria."
In his remarks, the CRSFC Chairman, Hon. Oben-Etchi, described the partnership as a turning point in the state's effort to restore and sustain its forest heritage, assuring that the Commission would continue to operate transparently while documenting progress for future reference.
"We want Cross Riverians to know that conscious efforts are being made through tree planting to reclaim our forest reserves," he said. "With this MOU, we now have a working document and a reference point for generations to come."
The Director of Forestry, Mr Donatus Adie, applauded both parties for what he termed a "forward-thinking collaboration," urging other stakeholders, including NGOs, community-based organizations, and private investors, to emulate the initiative rather than rely solely on government intervention.
Similarly, the Secretary of the Forestry Association of Nigeria (FAN), Cross River Chapter, Dr Emmanuel Ugbong, commended the Commission for providing security and technical support during field operations. He expressed optimism that the project would significantly boost afforestation, regeneration, and ecosystem restoration across the state.
On behalf of PROWPMAN's Cross River Chapter, Mr Babatunde Williams disclosed that over 25,000 seedlings of different species have already been planted in Oban, Akamkpa LGA, as part of the 5,000-hectare pilot phase. He appreciated the Forestry Commission for its continuous partnership and support.
Also speaking, PROWPMAN Vice President, Chief Dosunmi Adetola, thanked the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, for granting approval and providing logistics support for the project's takeoff, describing the governor's gesture as a testament to his "People-First" environmental vision.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Oben-Etchi reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to ensuring that the partnership stands the test of time, adding that the project will substantially expand the state's forest cover and enhance its contribution to global climate goals.
The Sustainable Green Project is expected to serve as a model for other states, reinforcing Cross River's position as Nigeria's leading champion in forest conservation and climate resilience.
"This collaboration will not only green our environment but also secure the future of our forest resources," he said.
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