Digitized tree labelling and capacity building, Nigeria

  • Status of project

    Completed

  • Region

    Asia

  • Country

    Nigeria

  • Programme

    BGCI

  • Workstream

    Saving Plants

  • Topic

    Tree Conservation
Funded by ArbNet, via the Global Botanic Garden Fund
Project Completed: 2024
Institution: International Institute of Tropical Agriculture Forest Center (IITA Forest Center)

Digitized tree labelling and capacity building in the Tree Heritage Park, Ibadan, Nigeria

Introduction

The Tree Heritage Park of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, Nigeria, is nicknamed ‘Noah’s Ark’ for hosting living collections of over 100 native tree species  – about half of which are already Red-Listed by the IUCN. The THP was awarded a Level II accreditation by ArbNet in January 2022. Based on the accreditation assessment, proper labelling of trees and plots is an area needing improvement in the THP, which is the focus of this proposed project.

Project Goals

This project aimed to promote tree conservation through digitalized tree labelling and training for the Integrated Resource Management Association (AGIR) based in the neighbouring country (Benin Republic).

Dr David Ladipo installs a botanic label during the ceremonial event at the Tree Heritage Park, Ibadan Nigeria.

Key Achievements

A digital gateway way created for the Tree Heritage Park by generating QR codes for 25 species. These QR codes link directly to the corresponding species pages on the website (https://forestcenter.iita.org/index.php/manual-tree-propagation/).

The QR codes and essential species information was incorporated into 40 durable botanic labels. The labels were unveiled and installed during a ceremonial event that attracted 28 passionate experts and enthusiasts. This occasion not only showcased the enhanced Tree Heritage Park but also amplified project visibility, as featured in this newsletter.

Mr Senan Victorin Kitibi of the Integrated Resource Management Association from Benin Republic was trained on project activities within the park

They shared expertise across border by providing a  hands-on three days of training  for a representative of AGIR, on tree propagation and management, including tree collection management. This capacity-building initiative aims to enhance AGIR’s management of the Ewe Adakplame Forest Park.

Dr John Peacock displays how QR codes links the botanic labels to the species account on the webpage.

This project significantly boosted the Tree Heritage Park’s educational value by providing labelled plant collections, facilitating learning and research for visitors and scientists alike. 

“We are grateful for ArbNet-BGCI’s crucial support, enabling us to drive meaningful impacts in tree conservation and public engagement.”

 

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