The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Joint Venture on PML 53 and PML 54, in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), have commenced the transplantation of 100,000 nursery-raised indigenous tree seedlings to designated restoration sites to tackle deforestation, biodiversity loss and climate change across 11 littoral communities in Bayelsa State.
Under Afforestation, Livelihood Enhancement and Carbon Sequestration (ALEC) Project, the organisations will commence the exercise in Koluama 2 Community, Bayelsa State, with the aim of planting 500,000 indigenous trees across its 11 communities over the next five years.

Beyond afforestation, the project will integrate environmental education, biodiversity protection, youth engagement and alternative livelihood programmes to ensure conservation efforts are community-driven and sustainable.
Speaking during the tree-planting exercise, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, FIRST E&P, Emmanuel Etomi, who was represented by HSE Adviser, Oluwatosin Amida, described the transplantation of the seedlings as a defining moment in the project.

He said the initiative demonstrates environmental stewardship and community development, while embodying a long-term commitment to restoring the coastal forest ecosystem, protecting biodiversity and building a more sustainable future for the 11 host communities
“By also equipping over 220 youth volunteers with new skills and livelihood opportunities, we are cultivating a generation of environmental custodians and creating lasting, shared value for our host communities,” he said.

Also speaking, Lead, Community Relations, Asset B, NUIMS, Mrs. Ekis Okoro, described the project as a strategic investment in environmental restoration and future generations.
She said the project is a worthwhile investment in restoring coastal forests where people can reconnect with nature, enjoy the beauty of the coastline and appreciate the value of preserving the environment.

“As the project progresses towards its goal of planting 500,000 trees across Koluama 1, Koluama 2, Ezetu 1, Ezetu 2, Foropa, Fishtown, Ekeni, Sangana, Oginibiri, Okumbiribeleu and Okunmbiri (jointly referred to as KEFFESO) in Southern Ijaw and Brass LGA, it is expected to contribute significantly to carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, shoreline protection and improved livelihoods for communities across Bayelsa State.
Programmes Development Manager, NCF, Joshua Dazi, said the project represents a practical demonstration of how environmental conservation and community development can go hand in hand.

According to him, sustainability begins when people understand the critical role nature plays in supporting human existence.
He stated that coastal forests are not just resources for today’s livelihoods, but are investments in tomorrow’s future.

Dazi noted that the ALEC coastal restoration project reflects the organisations shared responsibility to restore degraded ecosystems while creating a better future for coastal communities.
Speaking on behalf of Koluama II Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Chairman of the Council of Chiefs, ThankGod Orunimighen, noted that coastal erosion has steadily threatened the community over the years.

He said while the ocean has continued to encroach on their community over the years, the ALEC project is expected to restore the coastal forest, help protect communities shoreline and a reduce the impact of coastal erosion.
One of the project volunteers from Koluama I, George Diseye, said the project is creating new opportunities beyond traditional livelihoods as it offers both environmental and economic benefits.

“Most young people here grew up depending mainly on fishing. Through this project, we are learning new skills in tree planting and environmental restoration, while also opening opportunities in agriculture and eco-tourism. Restoring the shoreline will not only protect our environment but also create new sources of livelihood for our communities,” he said.