Ogun State government has pledged to plant thousands of trees yearly to restore its eco-systems, enhance biodiversity, combat climate change, and improve air and water supply in the state. Governor Dapo Abiodun, disclosed this while flagging off the maiden edition of the Ogun State Tree Planting Day with the theme: “Greening Tomorrow, Today,” at the state secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, at the weekend. Represented by the Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, the governor said planting of trees yearly will not only enrich the environment, but also foster a culture of conservation among various communities in the state.
While reflecting on the crucial roles trees play in human existence, Abiodun said they are the lungs of the planets as they tirelessly work to filter the air used for breathing, as well as offer shades on hot days, shelter for wildlife and improve the visual effects on the landscapes. Governor Abiodun, therefore, called on the residents of the state to support the government efforts by safeguarding the trees and stop indiscriminate felling of existing trees in their communities. In his remark, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya said the importance of trees and plants in human existence is immeasurable as they serve for medicinal, ornamental and economic purposes that nurture the society.
While thanking the Federal Ministry of Environment, National Environmental Standard Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) and various Non Governmental Organisations for their support, Oresanya said with the large number of industries, numbering over 6,000 – daily giving out emission, there is the need to have ecosystem and eco- balancing in the state.Also, the Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun said his Ministry has always been in the forefront of replenishing the state’s forest reserves through planting of millions of trees.He said that yearly planting of trees in urban and semi-urban areas will increase the lifespan of residents of the state.
