In the quiet village of Maimalari in Yobe State, hope is taking root—quite literally.
As part of a bold new plan, the Federal Government has launched an ambitious drive to distribute five million date palm seedlings to farmers by 2025, aiming to inject over ₦300 billion into the economy annually.
At a tree-planting event in Maimalari village, Yobe State, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), Saleh Abubakar, revealed the government’s plan to distribute five million date palm seedlings to farmers across 11 frontline states by 2025.
This bold move, he noted, aims to generate over ₦300 billion each year.
“These seedlings represent more than just trees — they serve as powerful economic tools,” Abubakar declared.
“Each tree produces 100 kilograms of dates twice a year, and farmers can sell the yield for up to ₦1 million annually.”
Fighting Climate Change With Trees
Consequently, the initiative seeks to energise local economies, strengthen livelihoods, and position forestry as a key driver of national revenue.
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NAGGW estimates that the total date production could reach 500 million kilograms annually, creating a robust income stream for farmers.
Moreover, the campaign aligns with the government’s broader goal to combat climate change through sustainable agriculture.
Abubakar emphasised that the project would not only improve household incomes but also build climate resilience across Yobe and the 10 other participating states.
In addition, the 2025 tree-planting campaign marks the 10th anniversary of NAGGW.
Through this project, the agency aims to restore degraded land, empower farmers, and turn forest-based livelihoods into a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy.
By planting the seeds of a green economy today, the Federal Government is cultivating prosperity for tomorrow.
