Micheal Odenigbo, a Nigerian climate advocate, has set a new world record by planting over 25,000 trees in just 24 hours, surpassing the previous Guinness World Record. The achievement took place on June 5, 2025, at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) in Agbani, coinciding with World Environment Day.
The record-setting event began at 4 p.m. on Thursday and ended 24 hours later at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025. Odenigbo had aimed to plant 27,000 trees but exceeded expectations, successfully planting more than 25,000 trees in the allotted time.
Speaking to CGTN Europe after the event, Odenigbo confirmed that he had broken the record, stating, “Today, we did a tree planting project which kicked off on World Environment Day. Our target was 27,000 trees, but we surpassed 25,000. We’ve broken the record, and now we just need to upload the evidence to Guinness World Records.
The record was previously held by Canadian environmentalist Antoine Moses, who planted 23,060 trees. Odenigbo’s effort focused on planting Moringa oleifera, a fast-growing and drought-resistant tree known for its environmental and nutritional benefits.
The event took place on a four-hectare plot at ESUT, a site chosen for its commitment to green initiatives. The university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, supported the project, highlighting its alignment with ESUT’s Green Revolution and Environmental Sustainability Programme. The university also required the newly planted trees to be maintained for at least three months.
Odenigbo’s attempt was officially recognized by Guinness World Records in 2025, under the title “Most trees planted by an individual in 24 hours.” According to Guinness’ guidelines, all trees had to be planted manually, without the use of digging machinery, and the process was documented with videos, photos, and logbooks. At least two independent witnesses, including a qualified botanist or arborist, verified the attempt, ensuring that the planting was done continuously over 24 hours, with rest breaks allowed every four hours.
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