Onitsha South Launches 5,000-Tree Green Revolution as Soludo Govt Takes Over Fegge Niger Beach Project

The Onitsha South Local Government Council has commenced the planting of over 5,000 shade trees across the council area as part of its ongoing environmental beautification and green restoration programme.
The first phase of the project starts with the planting of 2,000 trees, with horticulturists already mobilized to various locations for the exercise.

The official flag-off of the project is scheduled to take place next Monday.
Speaking on the initiative, the Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Chief Emeka Orji, said the project is aimed at restoring the aesthetic appeal and environmental beauty of the commercial city.
According to him, Onitsha was once regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the South-East due to the abundance of trees and green spaces strategically located across the city.
“When we were growing up, Onitsha was counted among the most beautiful cities in the South-East. Trees were planted at strategic locations across the city, providing shade and enhancing the environment. Today, however, virtually every available space has been converted into markets, and this has continued to deface the city,” he said.
The Mayor explained that the tree-planting initiative forms part of a broader urban renewal programme being implemented by the council.
“We began with the demolition of illegal structures, makeshift buildings, and the clearance of slums in different parts of the local government. The next phase is the planting of trees, which will not only beautify the environment but also provide shade and improve the well-being of residents,” Orji stated.
He disclosed that five species of trees are being planted under the programme, including Ural trees, Caliptus, Dogonyaro, Step trees, and Menaila trees, all selected for their ability to provide shade and improve the urban ecosystem.
Orji further announced that the Anambra State Government has officially taken over the proposed Niger Beach development project in Fegge, noting that the local government had earlier reclaimed the River Niger waterfront from illegal occupants, street traders, and criminal elements.
“Recall that about two years ago, we recovered the River Niger waterfront that had been taken over by hoodlums and street traders. We cleared the area and prepared it for the construction of a beachside leisure and tourism resort,” he said.
According to him, the administration of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has now assumed responsibility for the project and is set to commence development work on the site.
“The state government has taken over the project, and work will commence very soon. After the landscaping and planting of grasses, interested investors will be invited to bid for designated spaces where they can establish simple, environmentally friendly shops, bars, restaurants, and other recreational facilities,” he added.
The Mayor expressed optimism that the project would transform the waterfront into a major tourism and leisure destination, boost economic activities, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall image of Onitsha.
He further revealed that the project would soon be officially flagged off by the Anambra State Government, marking the beginning of a new phase in the redevelopment of the Fegge waterfront and the revitalization of the city’s tourism potential.