Ogun Governor Abiodun Urges Collective Action for Tree Planting, Commends Tinubu's Reforms

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Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, represented by his Deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele, called for collective action in tree planting during the 2026 Ogun Tree Planting Day in Abeokuta. Abiodun commended President Bola Tinubu's efforts in environmental sustainability through initiatives such as the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan, National Clean Cooking Policy, and Afforestation and Ecosystem Restoration.

The event, themed 'Root for the Future: Plant a Tree, Heal the Earth,' was organised by the Ogun State Ministries of Environment and Forestry. The governor stated that tree planting was not merely placing of seedlings into the soil but a reaffirmation of the collective responsibility to protect the environment, restore degraded ecosystems, and secure a future where economic progress and environmental sustainability advance together.

Abiodun also commended the Ministries of Environment and Forestry for sustaining the annual tree-planting programme, saying it had grown beyond a government initiative into a statewide movement involving schools, tertiary institutions, corporate organisations, development partners, and individual citizens. He urged participants to sustain tree planting efforts and ensure that planted trees matured through proper commitment and nurturing.

The Ogun State Head of Service, 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 lives.' The Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun, stated that the state government had resuscitated all six forest reserves that were moribund before the commencement of the Abiodun administration, adding that 'Ogun now had a good forest cover.'

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, highlighted the environmental benefits of trees, including 'carbon capture, improved air quality, water conservation, erosion control, and the provision of habitats for wildlife.' Oresanya also said trees beautified cities and contributed to the physical and mental well-being of residents, stressing the need for more tree planting across the state.

He urged residents to nurture every tree seedling, protect it from damage, and monitor its growth. Calling students and young people 'Environmental Champions of Tomorrow,' Oresanya urged them to begin their commitment to environmental protection by planting trees in their schools, places of worship, and communities and encouraging others to do the same.

Ogun Governor Abiodun Urges Collective Action for Tree Planting, Commends Tinubu's Reforms

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, represented by his Deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele, called for collective action in tree planting during the 2026 Ogun Tree Planting Day in Abeokuta. Abiodun commended President Bola Tinubu's efforts in environmental sustainability through initiatives such as the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan, National Clean Cooking Policy, and Afforestation and Ecosystem Restoration.

The event, themed 'Root for the Future: Plant a Tree, Heal the Earth,' was organised by the Ogun State Ministries of Environment and Forestry. The governor stated that tree planting was not merely placing of seedlings into the soil but a reaffirmation of the collective responsibility to protect the environment, restore degraded ecosystems, and secure a future where economic progress and environmental sustainability advance together.

Abiodun also commended the Ministries of Environment and Forestry for sustaining the annual tree-planting programme, saying it had grown beyond a government initiative into a statewide movement involving schools, tertiary institutions, corporate organisations, development partners, and individual citizens. He urged participants to sustain tree planting efforts and ensure that planted trees matured through proper commitment and nurturing.

The Ogun State Head of Service, 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 lives.' The Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun, stated that the state government had resuscitated all six forest reserves that were moribund before the commencement of the Abiodun administration, adding that 'Ogun now had a good forest cover.'

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, highlighted the environmental benefits of trees, including 'carbon capture, improved air quality, water conservation, erosion control, and the provision of habitats for wildlife.' Oresanya also said trees beautified cities and contributed to the physical and mental well-being of residents, stressing the need for more tree planting across the state.

He urged residents to nurture every tree seedling, protect it from damage, and monitor its growth. Calling students and young people 'Environmental Champions of Tomorrow,' Oresanya urged them to begin their commitment to environmental protection by planting trees in their schools, places of worship, and communities and encouraging others to do the same.

A Brief History of Tree Planting in Ogun State

Ogun State has a long history of tree planting, dating back to the 1980s when the state government launched its first tree planting programme. The programme aimed to restore degraded ecosystems and promote environmental sustainability in the state. Over the years, the programme has undergone significant transformations, with the current administration prioritising tree planting as a means of securing a sustainable future for the state.

The programme has also been expanded to involve schools, tertiary institutions, corporate organisations, and individual citizens, making it a statewide movement. The Ministries of Environment and Forestry have played a critical role in sustaining the programme, which has grown to become one of the most successful environmental initiatives in the country.

The Environmental Benefits of Trees

Trees provide numerous environmental benefits, including carbon capture, improved air quality, water conservation, erosion control, and the provision of habitats for wildlife. In addition, trees beautify cities and contribute to the physical and mental well-being of residents. This is why tree planting is an essential component of environmental sustainability, and why governments and citizens must work together to promote this initiative.

What's Next?

The 2026 Ogun Tree Planting Day has come to a close, but the work of tree planting continues. The Ministries of Environment and Forestry will continue to sustain the programme, with a focus on promoting environmental sustainability and securing a sustainable future for the state. Residents are urged to nurture every tree seedling, protect it from damage, and monitor its growth. By working together, we can create a greener and more sustainable Ogun State for future generations.

'Tree planting is not merely placing of seedlings into the soil but a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility to protect the environment, restore degraded ecosystems, and secure a future where economic progress and environmental sustainability advance together.' — Governor Dapo Abiodun

The Nigerian Angle

Tree planting is not just a global issue but also a critical concern in Nigeria. The country has been experiencing severe environmental degradation, with deforestation, desertification, and climate change affecting the livelihoods of many Nigerians. The Ogun State government's commitment to tree planting is a welcome development, and it is essential that other states in the country follow suit.

Additional Quotes

'We urge public servants, corporate organisations, educational institutions, community leaders, and residents to make tree planting an integral part of their daily lives.' — Olanrewaju Iskeel Saka, Ogun State Head of Service

'Trees beautify cities and contribute to the physical and mental well-being of residents, stressing the need for more tree planting across the state.' — Ola Oresanya, Commissioner for Environment

Conclusion

The 2026 Ogun Tree Planting Day has been a resounding success, with the Ministries of Environment and Forestry sustaining the annual programme and promoting environmental sustainability in the state. The governor's call for collective action in tree planting is a welcome development, and it is essential that all citizens work together to create a greener and more sustainable Ogun State for future generations.