Ogun State tree planting campaign aims to plant one million trees and establish 50 hectares of parks to promote climate resilience and sustainability

Ogun State tree planting initiatives have received a major boost, as Governor Dapo Abiodun announced an ambitious plan to plant one million trees and develop 50 hectares of green parks by the end of this year’s planting season.

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Speaking through Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun, at the Ogun State Tree Planting Day event, the governor said the campaign, themed “Grow Trees, Sustain Life,” aligns with the state’s ISEYA agenda—particularly its focus on Agriculture and Social Development.

“These trees are more than just plants,” Governor Abiodun stated. “They represent hope and the future. They will clean our air, reduce urban heat, and help mitigate flooding while providing fruit and medicinal benefits.”

To ensure broad participation, the government is launching a “One Citizen, One Tree” campaign across the state’s 20 local government areas and collaborating with private organisations to build 50 hectares of green recreational parks.

Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, described the initiative as “strategic, scientific, and survival-driven,” saying it directly addresses climate change and flooding, especially in Ogun’s urban centres.

He also announced plans to:

• Partner with industries on mass tree planting
• Integrate tree education into school curricula
• Introduce annual awards for schools and businesses excelling in tree maintenance

As Nigeria’s most industrialised state, Ogun is taking proactive steps to reduce its carbon footprint and ensure sustainability in the face of rapid development.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tunji Odunlami, confirmed his ministry would prioritise tree protection in urban renewal projects, while Head of Service Mr. Kehinde Onasanya urged residents to plant trees and avoid deforestation.

The event, hosted by the Ministry of Environment in partnership with other ministries, featured goodwill messages from key organisations including:

• Lafarge Africa Plc
• Nigeria Conservation Foundation
• Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria
• National Youth Service Corps
• Nigeria Institute of Landscape Horticulturists

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The ceremony ended with a symbolic tree planting led by the Commissioner for Forestry, as hundreds of seedlings were distributed to local councils, estates, NGOs, and communities to expand the reach of the campaign.