Gov Abiodun Reaffirms Ogun’s Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

Aina Obasanjo 

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described tree planting as a reaffirmation of collective responsibility to protect the environment, restore degraded ecosystems and secure a sustainable future.

Governor Abiodun stated this at the commemoration of the 2026 Ogun Tree Planting Day, organised by the State Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Ministry of Forestry at Orange Valley Estate, Olusegun Obasanjo Hilltop, Okemosan, Abeokuta.

The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said the theme of this year’s event, “Root for the Future: Plant a Tree, Heal the Earth,” was timely, considering the increasing impact of climate change on communities and livelihoods.

He listed rising temperatures, flooding, prolonged dry seasons, land degradation and biodiversity loss as some of the environmental challenges confronting the state.

Governor Abiodun commended the Federal Government for prioritising environmental sustainability through initiatives including the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan, National Clean Cooking Policy, afforestation and ecosystem restoration programmes.

He said Ogun State would continue to support these initiatives through investments in afforestation, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green infrastructure, waste management, environmental sanitation and improved flood control mechanisms.

The Governor also commended the Ministries of Environment and Forestry for sustaining the annual tree planting programme, noting that it had grown beyond a government initiative into a statewide movement involving schools, tertiary institutions, corporate organisations, development partners and individuals.

He urged residents to not only plant trees but also nurture and protect them to maturity.

Also speaking, the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr Olanrewaju Iskeel Saka, called on public servants, corporate organisations, educational institutions, community leaders and residents to make tree planting an integral part of their daily activities.

The Commissioner for Forestry, Engineer Taiwo Oludotun, disclosed that the state government had resuscitated all six forest reserves that were moribund before the inception of the present administration, resulting in improved forest cover across the state.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya had said that trees help to capture carbon dioxide, improve air quality, conserve water, prevent soil erosion and provide habitats for wildlife.

Dr Oresanya also noted that trees beautify cities and contribute to the physical and mental well-being of residents.

He urged residents to nurture and protect every tree planted, while calling on students and young people, whom he described as the “Environmental Champions of Tomorrow,” to begin planting trees in their schools, places of worship and communities.

Dr Oresanya also encouraged them to also inspire others to join the campaign in the overall public interest.