Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, reiterated his commitment to environmental sustainability as the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation are evident all around.

The governor made this known during the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) special Tree Planting exercise, in commemoration of his 60th birthday, at in Ikeja, adding that “environmental sustainability is essential to Lagos” as a state with rapidly growing population and urban landscape.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr Tajudeen Gaji, the governor described tree planting as one of the simplest yet powerful actions to combat climate change, improve air quality and create a healthier environment for generations to come.

According to him, the exercise goes beyond celebration, but is a reaffirmation of the collective commitment to a sustainable environmental protection and the future of the state. He added that the exercise was an impactful way to protect the environment.

“As your governor, I remain committed to advancing initiatives that safeguard our environment and combat climate change from our urban greening programmes to renewable energy and climate adaptation projects,” he added.

Sanwo-Olu stated further that for every tree planted today would help cool the city, improve the quality of the air residents breathe and reduce the risk of flooding on the streets, stressing that “it is also a gift to the future, one that children and grandchildren will be thankful for.”

The governor commended the LJLA Fellows for leadership and dedication initiatives, adding that the trees, like the seeds of leadership they are nurturing.

Grow strong, tall and enduring, standing as living monuments to the Lagos of tomorrow. LJLA, he said, represents the leaders who understand that true progress is measured not just by economic growth but by sustainability and impact.

He recalled that the academy was named in honour of the late Lateef Jakande for being a man of vision and service, adding that the exercise beautifully reflects his values, foresight, inclusiveness and the courage to plant what others will one day harvest.

According to him, “it is fitting that these young leaders have chosen an activity that not only honours my life but also contributes meaningfully to the future of our state.”

Emphasising that true change requires collective ownership, he urged Lagosians to join the movement to plant a tree, care for it, and watch it grow as a symbol of their own contribution to the shared future.