Governor Abiodun calls for unified effort as Ogun state throws its weight behind initiative to boost tree planting

Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State, views tree planting as a shared duty to safeguard the environment, revive damaged ecosystems, and ensure a secure future for all.

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This stance was expressed by Abiodun while delivering the keynote address at the 2026 Ogun Tree Planting Day, which was themed "Root for the Future: Plant a Tree, Heal the Earth" and organized by the state's Ministries of Environment and Forestry at the Orange Valley Estate in Abeokuta.

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The event, held at the frontage of Olusegun Obasanjo Hilltop in Oke-Mosan, was attended by Abiodun's representative, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who emphasized the timeliness of the theme given the escalating impacts of climate change on communities and the economy.

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According to Abiodun, the effects of climate change are no longer a distant concern, as rising temperatures, flooding, and biodiversity loss are increasingly affecting communities, livelihoods, and the economy, making the theme particularly timely.

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Abiodun defined tree planting as more than just placing seedlings in the soil, but as a reaffirmation of the collective responsibility to protect the environment, restore ecosystems, and secure a future where economic progress and environmental sustainability coexist.

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The governor praised President Bola Tinubu's administration for prioritizing environmental sustainability through initiatives such as the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan, National Clean Cooking Policy, and Climate Safe Investments.

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Ogun State remains committed to supporting national objectives through investments in afforestation, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture, among other areas, as stated by Abiodun.

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Abiodun commended the Ministries of Environment and Forestry for sustaining the annual tree-planting program, which has grown into a statewide movement involving various stakeholders, including schools and corporate organizations.

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The governor urged participants to sustain their tree-planting efforts and ensure the proper nurturing of planted trees to allow them to mature.

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Olanrewaju Iskeel Saka, the Ogun State Head of Service, called on the public to integrate tree planting into their daily lives, emphasizing its importance.

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Taiwo Oludotun, the Commissioner for Forestry, stated that the state government has resuscitated all six forest reserves that were previously non-functional, resulting in a significant improvement in the state's forest cover.

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In his welcome address, Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya highlighted the numerous environmental benefits of trees, including carbon capture, improved air quality, and erosion control.

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Oresanya also noted that trees contribute to the aesthetic appeal of cities and the well-being of residents, emphasizing the need for more tree planting across the state.

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The commissioner urged residents to protect and nurture tree seedlings, monitoring their growth and development.

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Oresanya referred to students and young people as the "Environmental Champions of Tomorrow," encouraging them to start their environmental protection journey by planting trees in their schools and communities.