Ekiti Government Launches Landmark Reforestation Initiative in Partnership with MBH Global Resources Limited

In a monumental step towards ecological restoration and sustainable development, the Ekiti State Government has officially launched a new Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative focused on reforesting significant areas within the state. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed recently with the innovative timber and agriculture company, MBH Global Resources Limited. This partnership aims to plant thousands of trees in deforested areas, preserve existing forested regions, create hundreds of job opportunities, and expand the state’s revenue base.

The ambitious project will involve the replanting of up to 1,000 hectares of deforested landscapes with a diverse mix of exotic and indigenous economic trees. This collaborative venture will be jointly managed by MBH Global Resources Limited and the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, starting with an immediate focus on planting 100 hectares within the Ise Forest Reserve located in the Ise-Orun Local Government Area.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, signed on behalf of the government. Additionally, Mr. Adekunle Sunday, the Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, also signed the MOU, reinforcing the state’s commitment to the initiative. During the signing ceremony, Governor Oyebanji expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “The green economy is a great opportunity for Ekiti to shine. Our natural assets can provide livelihoods while protecting our environment. This investment signifies confidence in our efforts to rejuvenate rural development and discover innovative pathways in the green economy.”

Echoing the Governor’s sentiments, Prince Adebanjo Adejuwon, CEO of MBH Global Resources, praised the administration’s dedication to sustainable projects: “Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to green investment is inspiring. This partnership reflects a modern approach to governance that prioritizes environmental responsibility and fosters long-term economic growth.”

The agreement, spanning 30 years, ensures a consistent revenue stream for the state, as 30% of the timber’s value will be remitted to Ekiti State’s coffers. The reforestation effort will feature both popular commercial species and the indigenous trees that once established the state as a hub for Nigeria’s timber industry, contributing to ecological balance and enhanced economic benefits.

The forestry initiative is expected to generate at least 100 jobs during its establishment phase, transitioning to approximately 40 full-time roles and 10 seasonal positions focused on key activities such as planting, weeding, and maintenance. In addition to job creation, the project will support continual management and protection of the area, curbing illegal activities, preventing erosion and fire risks, and promoting ecological restoration adjacent to the nationally significant Ise Forest Conservation Area.

Hon. Tayo Adeola, Ekiti State Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, remarked, “This partnership is a testament to our administration’s commitment to attracting reputable investors. I am optimistic about the economic and environmental benefits this collaboration will bring to Ekiti.”

Using cutting-edge satellite Land Use Land Cover maps, facilitated by the UK FCDO Propcom+ programme under the Africa Sustainable Commodities Initiative, the Ekiti State Government identified optimal locations for the reforestation project to maximize impact. The approach will adhere to global standards to safeguard culturally significant sites, wetlands, and existing vegetation.

With the Ekiti State Forestry Law 2016 incentivizing private plantation development through reduced fees, the state is fostering a thriving forestry sector for the future. Hon. Tayo Adeola stated, “Our forests possess immense potential for environmental protection and entrepreneurial prospects. We are enabling responsible growth in our forest sector while promoting private sector participation and safeguarding our natural resources.”

Prince Adebanjo Adejuwon articulated the rationale behind this initiative: “Our decision to invest in Ekiti is grounded in the state’s vast environmental potential, suitable land access, and a rising national recognition of sustainable development. By reintroducing fast-growing species like Gmelina alongside rare indigenous varieties, we aim to contribute to ecological restoration and rural development.”

He further emphasized the importance of forestry as critical for Nigeria’s future: “Forestry has a significant role to play in environmental restoration, economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development.”

The significance of this partnership transcends economic benefits. It represents a collective commitment to healing the earth, nurturing ecosystems, and investing in Nigeria’s green future.