A heartwarming story of legacy and environmental stewardship has captured the hearts of Nigerians online. A man, identified as TikTok user @farmer.olufad, recently paid a nostalgic visit to his former secondary school in Lagos and made a remarkable discovery.
A Nostalgic Visit Yields a Living Legacy
The man decided to return to his alma mater to relive fond memories from his school days. To his immense joy, he found a living testament to his past still thriving on the school grounds: a tree he personally planted as a student fifteen years ago.
According to his account, the tree planting took place in 2009 or 2010 when he was an active member, and even the head, of a Climate Change Club. This club was reportedly founded by the then-Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola. The initiative was part of a campaign encouraging students to plant trees, often with the incentive of winning a prize.
From Seed to Symbol: Finding Purpose
In a video he shared, the man emotionally hugged the fully grown tree, identified as a Gmelina arborea. He reflected on the deeper meaning of the experience, stating that while he did not win any prize back then, he gained something far more significant.
"I didn’t win anything then, but I gained something bigger: purpose," he said. "Proof that impact outlives applause. I thought I wanted medicine, but God planted forestry in me." His words highlight a personal journey that began with a simple school activity and potentially shaped his future path and passion.
Mixed Reactions from Social Media
The video sparked a flood of reactions from Nigerians on social media, showcasing a mix of inspiration, humour, and the typical Nigerian online banter.
While many users celebrated his achievement and positive mindset, others made light-hearted jokes. One user, @ADE~, commented, "Your tree grow, what about you!?" Another, @Sabi girl, humorously noted, "Na watin EFCC want make boys Dey do be this," suggesting such positive acts are what the anti-graft agency should encourage.
However, several commentators defended the man's joy and sense of accomplishment. User @Apocalypto encouraged him, saying, "Bro, don't mind those insulting you... You passionate about what you doing, continue with it." Another user, @Enigma, pointed out that success isn't always visible, stating, "I've seen millionaires... going around with rubber slippers and cheap clothes, so looks can be very deceptive."
The story serves as a simple yet powerful reminder of how small actions, like planting a tree, can grow into lasting legacies. It underscores the importance of environmental education and the long-term value of initiatives started during one's formative school years.
