By DAYO ADESULU
Lagos, Nigeria – October 2, 2025 – Polaris Bank, in partnership with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), has expanded its nationwide tree-planting initiative to three states: Lagos, Ogun, and Kaduna, reaffirming its commitment to tackling climate change and promoting sustainable environmental practices across Nigeria.
The exercise, which took place at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in Ogun State, and Sardauna Memorial College in Kaduna, is part of Polaris Bank’s broader strategy to combat carbon emissions, restore degraded land, and support the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration.
Sustainability as a Business Imperative
At the Lagos edition, Executive Directors Chris Ofikulu and Sharafadeen Muhammad joined representatives of NCF and community stakeholders in planting trees.
Ofikulu, who led Polaris Bank’s first tree-planting campaign in 2024, emphasized that the initiative reflects the Bank’s belief that sustainability is not just a duty but a business imperative.
“Through this initiative, Polaris Bank reaffirms its role beyond financial services and aligns with the global goal of planting 10,000 trees. We are securing a greener future for generations to come,” he said.
Muhammad added that environmental protection is a shared responsibility, calling for more reserves that conserve nature while creating economic opportunities.
Extending Impact to Ogun and Kaduna
In Abeokuta, Yetunde Okeleye, Divisional Head, Ogun/Oyo, described the campaign as proof of Polaris Bank’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.
“By planting economic trees across Nigeria, we are demonstrating that sustainability is part of our ethos as a Bank,” she said, noting that the initiative at FUNAAB will help prevent soil erosion and restore degraded land.
At Sardauna College in Kaduna, Kabir Lawal, Acting Group Head, North West, stressed that sustainability is deeply embedded in Polaris Bank’s culture.
>“Every decision we make is guided by ESG principles. Beyond reducing carbon footprints, this initiative restores degraded areas, improves environmental health, and raises awareness on the importance of preservation,” he explained.
Community and NCF Applaud Initiative
The NCF commended Polaris Bank’s leadership, noting that the choice of fruit-bearing and shade-providing trees would help with erosion control, food security, and climate resilience. Community leaders from FUNAAB and Sardauna College also expressed gratitude, describing the project as timely and impactful in addressing global environmental challenges.
Banking With a Purpose
Polaris Bank has continued to integrate sustainability into its long-term growth strategy, ensuring that climate action, community development, and environmental stewardship remain central to its operations.
By partnering with NCF and expanding its tree-planting campaign nationwide, the Bank positions itself not only as a financial services provider but as a catalyst for positive social and environmental change.
