By Aliyu Bala Gerengi,Gombe
As part of activities commemorating the 50th Anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN). The Gombe State Branch, successfully carried out a Legacy Tree Planting Exercise on Saturday November 14, 2026, at the College of Nursing Sciences, Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe.
The exercise witnessed the planting of 200 fruit-bearing trees, which include mango, orange, guava, berries and other varieties, culminating in the establishment of a dedicated orchard within the College premises. The initiative is aimed at promoting environmental sustainability, contributing to food security, improving the institutional environment and creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
A special feature of the exercise was the dedication of selected trees in honour of distinguished leaders and stakeholders whose contributions to healthcare, education, institutional development and community service are worthy of recognition. These included the Executive Governor of Gombe State, H.E Alh. Muhammadu Inuwa Yahya, Emir of Gombe, HRH Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, Prof. Yusuf Mohammed Abdullahi, Chief Medical Director, past Medical Directors, MWAN National President, Gombe ACReSAL Project Coordinator Dr. Sani Adamu Jauro, Management Staff and Princial Officers of FTHG, Gombe State NMA Chairman, MDCAN Gombe President, ARD FTH Gombe President, Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences FTHG, MWAN Gombe President, among others.
The Association particularly acknowledges the invaluable support of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, which provided a substantial number of the seedlings, alongside contributions from other well-wishers and supporters. ACReSAL further demonstrated its commitment to the sustainability of the project through the donation of a 2,500-litre water storage tank to support the irrigation and maintenance of the orchard.
Special appreciation goes to Professor Aliyu Usman Elnafaty, elder statesman, former Medical Director FMC Gombe and former Vice-Chancellor Gombe State University, who personally supported the initiative and honoured the occasion with his personal contribution.
The event was attended by other distinguished dignitaries, members of MWAN, representatives of partner organisations and well-wishers, whose presence and support added colour and significance to the occasion.
The Legacy Tree Planting Exercise represents more than the planting of trees; it is a symbol of gratitude, recognition, sustainability and continuity. As the trees grow and bear fruits, they will serve as enduring reminders of the Golden Jubilee celebrations and the collective commitment of MWAN Gombe to community development, environmental responsibility and intergenerational impact.
End
