BREAKING: SANWO-OLU LAUNCHES MASSIVE TREE-PLANTING DRIVE, TARGETS 20,000 TREES TO COMBAT CLIMATE CHANGE

SANWO-OLU LAUNCHES MASSIVE TREE-PLANTING DRIVE, TARGETS 20,000 TREES TO COMBAT CLIMATE CHANGE

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on residents to actively participate in tree planting as part of efforts to combat climate change and create a cleaner, greener and more resilient environment across the state.

The governor made the appeal during the 2026 Tree Planting Day celebration held at Eko Amore Gardens in Lekki, where he reaffirmed his administration's commitment to environmental sustainability through nature-based solutions.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Lagos has set a target of planting 20,000 trees in 2026. He revealed that as of June 30, the state had already planted 13,401 trees, representing about 67 percent of the annual goal.

According to the governor, the tree-planting campaign will continue throughout the rainy season until October, with activities taking place across all 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

Sanwo-Olu stressed that the initiative is aimed at reducing the effects of climate change, improving air quality, controlling flooding and creating healthier communities.

He urged residents not only to plant trees but also to ensure they are properly nurtured until they mature.

"We are not just planting trees; we are planting hope and a lasting legacy. Together, we can build a Lagos that is cooler, cleaner, safer, flood-resilient and more beautiful for future generations," the governor stated.

As part of measures to sustain the programme, Sanwo-Olu directed all council chairmen to serve as Tree Custodians, with the responsibility of monitoring and protecting trees planted within their jurisdictions.

He also reminded residents that anyone who illegally fells a tree under Lagos State law must replace it with five new trees.

The governor further unveiled 20 Lagos Tree Champions, recognising individuals and organisations for their contributions to environmental conservation, while encouraging residents to obtain free tree seedlings from LASPARK nurseries located in Ikorodu and Agege.

Earlier, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, described the annual exercise as a critical strategy for addressing climate change and protecting the environment.

Speaking on this year's theme, "Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility," Wahab said the campaign highlights the importance of collective action in preserving the environment.

He noted that rising temperatures, flooding, biodiversity loss and other extreme weather conditions have made tree planting one of the most effective natural solutions for climate adaptation.

The commissioner added that all 57 LGAs and LCDAs have been designated as Tree Custodians and are expected to nurture newly planted trees for at least 12 months to improve their survival rate.

Also speaking, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, said rapid urbanisation, environmental degradation and increasing temperatures require stronger community participation in environmental protection.

She encouraged families, schools, religious organisations, market associations and private businesses to embrace tree planting as a continuous culture that will benefit future generations.

The Lagos State Government says the initiative remains a key part of its broader strategy to build a climate-resilient city while promoting environmental sustainability and improving residents' quality of life.