Government at all levels, private investors, and international organisations have been urged to support large-scale forest regeneration with policies, equipment, and collaboration to scale ecosystem restoration.

The GMD/CEO of MBH Global Resources, Prince Adebanjo Adejuwon, a US-based sustainability advocate, who gave the advise, said restoring ecosystems is a global responsibility, and with collective effort, biodiversity can be protected, economies strengthened, and a sustainable future secured for generations to come.

He spoke glowingly onSustainable Forest Management (SFM), considered as a holistic approach to managing forests that balances environmental protection, social needs, and economic growth, adding that the core principle of SFM is to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Adejuwon revealed that energy poverty remains a root cause of deforestation, stressing that his organisation advocates for promoting clean cooking technologies and renewable alternatives while scaling afforestation projects.

“Our aims include promotion of SFM – balancing environmental, social, and economic needs, while safeguarding forests for future generations; scaling afforestation and reforestation – restoring degraded lands through tree planting, biodiversity enhancement, and carbon sequestration; advancing Climate-Smart Agriculture – integrating ecological land use with sustainable farming systems that build resilience and food security; and engaging end users through green solutions.

“We also aim at reducing deforestation by providing sustainable alternatives that support livelihoods and cultural values; fostering International Partnerships – collaborating with governments, global stakeholders, and the private sector to scale ecosystem restoration.”

He added that the SFM initiative goes beyond harvesting trees, but emphasises stewardship of the entire ecosystem, ensuring that forests remain healthy, diverse, and productive for the long term. He added that the idea of embracing tree planting to save forests, tackle land deforestation and sustain the greener future has become a global phenomenon.

“By offering end users practical green solutions and reducing reliance on firewood, we are addressing both environmental degradation and social needs.

“MBH Global Resources aligns with national sustainability goals and promotes forestry as an economic engine.

Drawing inspiration from countries such as Vietnam, Brazil, and Ethiopia, the company advocates for Nigeria to industrialise its forests, generating revenue, jobs, and resilience.

“There is plan on ground to collaborate with institutions offering forest-related courses in order to build capacity and provide end users with training, internships, and career development opportunities, thereby preparing a new generation of sustainability professionals,” he said.

Considering the fact that tree planting is capital intensive, and a long-term project, coupled with the difficulty in getting the commitment of government, Adejuwon said the company encourages investment by offering scalable, lower-risk models. “Rather than funding from the beginning, investors can buy into established plantations with proven survival rates.

This ensures predictable returns, while advancing long-term forest regeneration.

“The primary challenge is early-stage investment, as young plantations require high maintenance. MBH Global Resources builds investor confidence by showcasing successful projects, ensuring transparency, and demonstrating forestry’s long-term economic and environmental returns.”

While speaking on the economic implications, benefits and the sustainability of the projects, Adejuwon said sustainable forestry creates both ecological resilience and economic opportunities.

He added that by engaging communities in tree planting and agroforestry, MBH Global Resources provides jobs, enhances food security, and generates long-term industrial value.

“Species like Gmelina, Teak, Afara, Obese, Opepe, Iroko and so on are used in industries ranging from paper to furniture. Though capital-intensive, such projects attract sustainable investments, proving that environmental stewardship and economic growth go hand in hand.

“The trees planted by MBH Global Resources generate significant economic returns. Melina trees can be used in paper and other industries within three to four years, while hardwoods such as Iroko provide valuable timber over longer cycles. Diversifying tree species ensures continuous supply, supporting industries while maintaining ecological balance,” he said.