The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, has applauded the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Hon. Engr. Magaji Da’u Aliyu, PhD, mni, for his transformational leadership and impactful achievements within his first 100 days in office, as the agency launched a landmark Tree Planting Campaign for Environmental Restoration and Green Infrastructure Development in Abuja.
The event, which brought together researchers, staff, students, and community stakeholders, was held at the SHESTCO complex under the theme, “Science for Sustainability: Restoring Our Environment, Securing Our Future.” As part of the initiative, over 1,000 economic and indigenous tree seedlings were planted to advance climate action, ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.
Joining the programme via a telephone call, the Minister commended the DG for providing visionary leadership and repositioning SHESTCO as a practical driver of national development through science, technology, and innovation.
Dr. Udeh described the environmental restoration initiative as a model for how research institutions can deploy science-based solutions to address pressing environmental challenges and improve community well-being.
“I am proud of what SHESTCO is doing under the leadership of Engr. Magaji Da’u Aliyu,” the Minister stated. “This is the kind of practical, solution-driven science we want from our agencies. By transforming the Complex into a green laboratory, SHESTCO is demonstrating that innovation is not only about inventions but also about protecting the environment that sustains us all. The Ministry stands firmly behind this initiative and encourages other institutions to emulate this model.”
He further described the campaign as a practical reflection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that it demonstrates how science and innovation can be translated into measurable outcomes that support environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and improved livelihoods. He urged other government institutions to adopt similar initiatives that combine scientific research with direct community impact.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Hon. Engr. Magaji Da’u Aliyu emphasized that science and technology institutions must move beyond theoretical research to solving real-life challenges confronting the nation. He noted that climate change, desertification, flooding, and environmental degradation remain major threats to Nigeria’s food security, public health, and economic prosperity, stressing that research must translate into tangible solutions that improve lives.
The DG explained that the greening initiative aligns with Nigeria’s commitments under the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) and supports ongoing efforts to promote environmental sustainability within the Federal Capital Territory. He disclosed that each tree planted has been geo-tagged and assigned to staff and students for monitoring and nurturing, creating a living database for climate, biodiversity, and environmental research. He also revealed plans to institutionalize annual tree-planting exercises and establish a Centre for Climate Adaptation and Green Infrastructure at SHESTCO.
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, Hon. Engr. Aliyu stated that SHESTCO would continue to champion science-driven solutions that address national priorities and strengthen environmental resilience. “Science for sustainability is not a slogan; it is a responsibility,” he said. “Through this initiative, we are planting the seeds of a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for Nigeria, while demonstrating the impact of purposeful leadership and research-driven development.”
Pauline Sule (Mrs),anipr
