Tony Okpanachi, the managing director/CEO of the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), has reiterated the bank’s commitment to broader sustainability efforts, just as strengthening efforts to prioritise environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its business operations.
“By prioritizing sustainability, DBN seeks to align its activities with global best practices and contribute to the green transition in Nigeria’s economic landscape,” Okpanachi stated, emphasising the importance of reforestation in combating desertification and promoting biodiversity.
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According to him, land restoration is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and combating the adverse effects of desertification. He stated further that tree planting drive underscores the bank’s broader sustainability efforts, including the integration of ESG principles into its business operations.
“By planting trees, we are not only restoring the land but also ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations. So, we are thrilled to celebrate this World Environment Day by engaging in this meaningful tree planting initiative, because at DBN, we are driven by the belief that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility,” he stated.
In a demonstration of environmental stewardship and corporate social responsibility, DBN’s team engaged in a collaborative effort to plant over 3000 trees in two strategic locations – the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos and Kpeygi Community in Abuja.
The bank reinforces its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development through its impactful gesture of tree planting in alignment with the 2024 theme, ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience’.
Joseph Onoja, the director-general, Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), stated that the tree planting project is an act of sowing the seeds for a more resilient, green future that benefits both people and the planet.
“We are happy that DBN understands the role and importance of fostering a culture of environmental responsibility within its organization. Permit me to use this medium to appeal to other organizations to borrow a leaf from what DBN has done, by contributing their own quota in preserving and conserving our environment,” stated Onoja, who was represented by Uchenna Achunine, the director of business development and communications at NCF.
