The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) Joint Venture (JV) for PML 53 and PML 54, in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), have officially begun the transplantation of 100,000 nursery-raised indigenous tree seedlings to designated restoration sites as part of its Afforestation, Livelihood Enhancement, and Carbon Sequestration (ALEC) Project. 

The project kicked off in the Koluama 2 community in Bayelsa State and marks a significant milestone toward the JV’s commitment to planting a total of 500,000 indigenous trees across its 11 host communities over the next five years.

The ALEC project was initiated to address critical issues such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change in 11 coastal communities of Bayelsa State while also improving the socio-economic conditions of the local population. 

In addition to afforestation, the project includes environmental education, biodiversity protection, youth engagement, and alternative livelihood programs to ensure that conservation efforts are driven by and sustainable for the community.

During the tree-planting event in Koluama 2, the Executive Director of Corporate Services at FIRST E&P, Emmanuel Etomi, represented by HSE Adviser Oluwatosin Amida, described the transplantation of seedlings as a pivotal moment in the project. “Today’s milestone demonstrates what is possible when environmental stewardship and community development go hand in hand. 

The ALEC project reflects our long-term commitment to restoring the coastal forest ecosystem, safeguarding biodiversity, and building a more sustainable future for our 11 host communities. Moreover, by providing skills training and livelihood opportunities to over 220 youth volunteers, we are nurturing a generation of environmental stewards and creating lasting value for our communities.”

Also addressing the audience, Mrs. Ekis Okoro, Lead of Community Relations for Asset B at NUIMS, characterised the project as a strategic investment in environmental restoration for future generations. “This project represents a valuable investment in restoring our coastal forests. I look forward to revisiting these sites in a few years to witness thriving forests, allowing people to reconnect with nature, enjoy the beauty of the coastline, and recognise the importance of preserving our environment.”

For the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, the project exemplifies how environmental conservation and community development can coexist. Joshua Dazi, Programmes Development Manager at NCF, stated, “Sustainability begins when people comprehend the critical role nature plays in supporting our existence. 

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“Our coastal forests are not merely resources for current livelihoods; they are investments in a sustainable future. The ALEC coastal restoration project embodies our shared responsibility to restore degraded ecosystems while improving the future for coastal communities. 

“For the 2026 planting season alone, we will plant a total of 100,000 trees across the 11 communities.”

Speaking on behalf of the Koluama II Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Chief ThankGod Orunimighen, Chairman of the Council of Chiefs, noted that coastal erosion has increasingly threatened the community.

“When we were growing up, the shoreline was much farther away. Over the years, the ocean has continued to encroach upon our community. 

“With the ALEC project, we are hopeful that restoring the coastal forest will help protect our shoreline and mitigate the impact of coastal erosion,» he said.

For many young people, the project is creating new opportunities beyond traditional livelihoods. One volunteer from Koluama I, George Diseye, shared how the initiative offers both environmental and economic benefits. 

“Most young people here grew up mainly depending on fishing. Through this project, we are learning new skills in tree planting and environmental restoration while also exploring opportunities in agriculture and ecotourism. 

“Restoring the shoreline will not only protect our environment but also create new sources of income for our communities.»

As the project progresses toward its goal of planting 500,000 trees across Koluama 1, Koluama 2, Ezetu 1, Ezetu 2, Foropa, Fishtown, Ekeni, Sangana, Oginibiri, Okumbiribeleu, and Okunmbiri (collectively referred to as KEFFESO) in Southern Ijaw and Brass Local Government Area, it is expected to significantly contribute to carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, shoreline protection, and enhanced livelihoods for communities throughout Bayelsa State.