Ogun State Government has urged timber dealers and artisans to participate in active tree planting activities in order to boost afforestation, protect the environment and preserve forest reserve in the state.

The government said that the initiative would complement the approximately five million trees already planted by the Dapo Abiodun led administration to restore the state’s nine forest reserves to full operational capacity.

Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun, disclosed this yesterday during the 10th anniversary celebration of the Irewolede Plank Sellers and Woodworkers Association in the state.

Oludotun tasked the timber operators to collaborate with the government by sourcing wood responsibly from designated reserves while actively planting new trees to ensure ecological sustainability.

Earlier, the Chairman of the association, Mr. Gbemisola Adenekan, assured that members would key into any tree planting initiative that would boost afforestation, aid their operations and conserve the forest reserve.

Adenekan lauded the he state government for creating a business-friendly environment for the dealers and artisans, saying that the anniversary as a testament to the unity, resilience, enterprise, and collective spirit of the association.

He highlighted that the association—headquartered at the Lafenwa Sawmill in Abeokuta—continues to foster peaceful coexistence, economic growth, and welfare for its members. .

“Our members can only thrive when there is peace, security and an environment that supports legitimate economic activities”, the chairman said.

He also commended the past and present executive members, with special appreciation for Adeyemi Azeez, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, for his steadfast commitment to the association’s growth.