The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) Joint Venture (JV) on PML 53 and PML 54, in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), has commenced the transplantation of 100,000 nursery-raised indigenous tree seedlings to designated restoration sites under its Afforestation, Livelihood Enhancement and Carbon Sequestration (ALEC) Project.
Beginning with Koluama II Community in Bayelsa State, the company said the exercise marked a significant milestone towards the JV’s commitment to plant 500,000 indigenous trees across its 11 host communities in five years.
It added that the project would contribute significantly to carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, shoreline protection, and improved livelihoods for communities across Bayelsa State.
Speaking during the tree-planting exercise, the Executive Director of Corporate Services, FIRST E&P, Emmanuel Etomi, described the transplantation of the seedlings as a defining moment in the project.
Etomi, who was represented by FIRST E&P HSE Adviser, Oluwatosin Amida, said: “Today’s milestone is a demonstration of what is possible when environmental stewardship and community development are pursued together.
The ALEC project embodies our long-term commitment to restoring the coastal forest ecosystem, protecting biodiversity, and building a more sustainable future for our 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.”
Also speaking, the Lead, Community Relations, Asset B, NUIMS, Ekis Okoro, described the project as a strategic investment in environmental restoration and future generations.
“This project is a worthwhile investment in restoring our coastal forests. I look forward to returning to these sites in a few years to see thriving forests where people can reconnect with nature, enjoy the beauty of the coastline and appreciate the value of preserving our environment,” Okoro stated.
On his part, the Programmes Development Manager of NCF, Joshua Dazi, said: “Sustainability begins when people understand the critical role nature plays in supporting our existence. Our coastal forests are not just resources for today’s livelihoods; they are investments in tomorrow’s future.
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“The ALEC coastal restoration project reflects our shared responsibility to restore degraded ecosystems while creating a better future for coastal communities. For the 2026 planting season, a total of 100,000 trees will be planted in the 11 communities.”
Speaking on behalf of Koluama II Community, the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs, ThankGod Orunimighen, noted that coastal erosion has steadily threatened the community over the years.
“When we were growing up, the shoreline was much farther away. Over the years, the ocean has continued to encroach on our community. With the ALEC project, we are optimistic that restoring the coastal forest will help protect our shoreline and reduce the impact of coastal erosion,” he said.
One of the project volunteers from Koluama I, George Diseye, said the initiative offers both environmental and economic benefits.
Diseye disclosed that many young people in the community grew up depending mainly on fishing, adding: “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.”