An environmentalist, Micheal Odenigbo, has embarked on an extraordinary mission to set a new Guinness World Record by planting 27,000 trees within 24 hours.
The ambitious attempt began on Thursday, June 5, just after 4 pm, and is scheduled to conclude around the same time on Friday, June 6.
It is being held at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Agbani, in Enugu State.
The challenge coincides with World Environment Day and aims to surpass the current record of 23,060 trees planted in a single day by Canadian environmentalist Antoine Moses.
While the numbers are impressive, Odenigbo emphasized that the initiative is about more than world records.
“The aim is not just to break a record, but to make a significant input towards the combat against climate change,” he told DAILY GAZETTE in May.
According to Odenigbo, the initiative serves as a rallying call for climate action, especially in Nigeria, where deforestation and climate-related issues have become increasingly urgent.
He explained that the goal is to raise public awareness and encourage environmental responsibility.
“It aims to raise awareness, inspire action, and make a tangible contribution to combating climate change,” he stated.
The project emphasizes the role individuals can play in environmental restoration, showcasing how personal commitment can influence collective change.
The effort focuses on Moringa oleifera, a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree known for its ecological and nutritional benefits.
ESUT was selected as the venue due to its strong environmental orientation.
In a letter approving the use of a four-hectare area for the attempt, ESUT’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, expressed full support:
“The project aligns with the university’s Green Revolution and Environmental Sustainability Programme,” he said.
The university’s endorsement also matches the Enugu State Government’s broader climate action strategy.
ESUT, however, set terms for the event, including a requirement to maintain the newly planted trees for at least three months and to obtain necessary environmental permits.
Odenigbo’s application was officially accepted by Guinness World Records on January 14, 2025, under the title: “Most trees planted by an individual in 24 hours.”
The assigned reference number is 241216003153mtpb.
The attempt must follow strict rules:
All trees must be planted in a single, defined area.
Holes must be dug at the time of planting, without the use of digging machinery.
The entire process must be video recorded, with photos and a detailed logbook.
At least two independent witnesses must be present throughout—one of whom must be a qualified specialist, such as a botanist or arborist.
Witnesses must rotate every four hours, and the event must proceed non-stop for 24 hours. Rest breaks are allowed, but the clock continues to run.
Despite acknowledging the enormity of the task, Odenigbo remains hopeful and driven.
“On 5th of June 2025 (World Environmental Day), I will be attempting the Guinness World Record for the Most Trees Planted by an Individual in 24 hours,” he said.
He views the attempt not just as a personal feat, but as a call to action for all Nigerians:
“The challenge goes beyond breaking a world record,” he said.
“It seeks to highlight the impact of individual commitment to environmental restoration and to encourage others… to take meaningful action.”
