By Ochiaka Ugwu
Korean Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN) has observed Korea’s Arbor Day with tree-planting events with the aim of achieving environmental sustainability between April 7 and 8 in Abuja.
In a statement released in Abuja Thursday by Habiba Sharon Yakubu of Press Desk of Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria, it noted that on 7th of April 2025, KCCN marked Korea’s Arbor Day with the event honouring a standing culture of care and restoration.
According to the statement, “The Korean Cultural Center Nigeria (KCCN) commemorated Korea’s Arbor Day through a series of tree-planting activities held on April 7 and 8 in Abuja, promoting environmental awareness while further strengthening cooperation between Nigeria and the Republic of Korea.
“Arbor Day, known as Sikmokil in Korea, is a national observance that reflects the country’s long-standing commitment to reforestation and environmental restoration. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of collective action in protecting the environment.
“To mark the occasion, KCCN organized tree-planting activities at the University of Abuja, the Nigeria-Korea Model School (Junior Secondary School, Piwoyi), and the School for the Deaf in Kuje.
“At the University of Abuja, a tree-planting activity was held in front of the Korea Corner, a dedicated space that serves as a hub for Korean studies and cultural exchange on campus. The activity was attended by Dr. Dare Daniel Joseph, Director of Asian Studies at the University of Abuja.
“The planting of Mugunghwa, the national flower of the Republic of Korea, added symbolic significance to the event, underscoring the continued growth of cultural ties between Korea and Nigeria” the statement read in part.
“Building on programs conducted last year, KCCN also plans to expand Korean cultural experience activities at the University this year.
“Separate tree-planting activities were also carried out at the Nigeria-Korea Model School and the School for the Deaf in Kuje. At the two schools, orange trees and flowers, including Mugunghwa, were planted with the participation of school communities and education stakeholders.
“The school-based activities were attended by Lady Florence Dawon Wenegieme, Chairperson of the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), Irene Okafor Isioma, Deputy Director of the Department of Cultural and Creative Arts, and other UBEB directors, alongside school representatives.
“Participants also included Mrs. Mbanefo Pamela, Director/Principal of the Nigeria-Korea Model School, as well as Mr. Aguda Ezra (Assistant Headteacher – Academics) and Mr. Reuben Otunla (Senior Master – Administration) from the School for the Deaf in Kuje.
“Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting its positive impact in raising environmental awareness and encouraging student engagement.
“The participation of UBEB further highlighted the growing educational partnership between KCCN and the Board. KCCN is currently working with UBEB to provide Taekwondo classes in eight schools across Abuja, and plans are underway to introduce K-pop classes in three additional schools this year. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to youth development, education, and cultural exchange”.
The statement reported that KCCN Director, Mr. Juho Jeon emphasized that the Arbor Day commemoration represents not only environmental action, but also friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and Korea.
It noted that Juho reaffirmed KCCN’s commitment to expanding educational and cultural programs for young people in Nigeria.
“Through this Arbor Day celebration, KCCN reaffirms its commitment to fostering environmental responsibility, cultural exchange, and bilateral cooperation” the statement concluded.
