In a bid to restore ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and improve air and water quality, the government of Ogun State has unveiled plans to plant thousands of trees annually across the state.
The announcement was made by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by the Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya. This initiative was officially launched during the inaugural Ogun State Tree Planting Day under the theme “Greening Tomorrow, Today” at the state Secretariat in Okemosan, Abeokuta.
Highlighting the significance of trees in sustaining human life, Abiodun referred to them as the “lungs of the planet.” He emphasized that trees not only purify the air we breathe but also offer shade, wildlife shelter, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of landscapes.
Emphasizing the broader environmental initiatives of the state, the governor mentioned the promotion of LPG and natural gas for cooking in rural areas, the enforcement of a 25% green space policy for construction approvals, the establishment of the Ogun State Parks and Gardens Agency, and various reforestation projects.
These measures are part of a strategic approach to safeguard the environment and address the challenges posed by climate change. Abiodun emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the environment for future generations through these initiatives.
Fostering public participation, residents were urged to actively support the tree planting efforts by nurturing newly planted trees and refraining from the indiscriminate felling of existing ones.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya, underscored the invaluable role of trees, citing their medicinal, ornamental, and economic value, particularly in an industrialized state like Ogun.
Maintaining ecosystem balance is essential, with trees playing a vital role in achieving this goal, as stated by the Commissioner for Forestry, Engr. Taiwo Oludotun. The annual planting of trees will significantly contribute to the health and well-being of the state’s residents.