Ikorodu Local Government joined other councils across Lagos State in commemorating the 2026 Lagos State Tree Planting Day, themed “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” with stakeholders calling on residents to actively protect and preserve the environment.

The event, hosted by Ikorodu Local Government under the leadership of Executive Chairman, Hon. Prince Adedayo Ladega, featured the planting of trees within a school environment to promote environmental sustainability and encourage young people to embrace a greener future.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Babawale Alogba presented the message of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, emphasizing that tree planting is one of the state’s most effective strategies for tackling climate change, reducing flooding, improving air quality, and creating healthier communities.

Quoting the late Kenyan environmentalist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Wangari Maathai, the Governor’s message stressed that planting a tree is only the beginning, as true success lies in nurturing it until it matures.

The address noted that Lagos has already planted 13,401 trees, representing 67 percent of its 20,000-tree target for 2026. The campaign, which is taking place simultaneously across all 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas, will continue throughout the rainy season until October to improve the survival rate of newly planted trees.

Residents were encouraged to embrace the campaign’s message by planting at least one tree and taking responsibility for its growth, while free seedlings remain available at LASPARK nurseries in Ikorodu and Agege.

Earlier, the Head of Environment, Mrs. Sanusi Wuraola, welcomed participants and reminded everyone that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.

She urged residents not only to plant trees but also to care for them after planting, noting that trees provide clean air, shade, help regulate climate change, and improve the quality of life for future generations.

Representing the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Mr. Hassan Oriyomi, a member of the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the state’s green infrastructure.

He warned that it is illegal to cut down trees without obtaining approval from LASPARK, adding that anyone intending to remove a tree must first secure the necessary permit from the agency in accordance with Lagos State environmental regulations.

Speaking on the health benefits of tree planting, Health Officer Ajeyomi Gloria explained that trees play a critical role in regulating climate, conserving soil and water, improving air quality, reducing erosion, and promoting healthier living environments.

The event concluded with the ceremonial planting of trees within the school premises, symbolizing Ikorodu Local Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the collective responsibility of residents to build a greener, cleaner, and more climate-resilient Lagos.

The 2026 Tree Planting Day reinforced the message that protecting nature is everyone’s responsibility and that every tree planted today is an investment in a healthier future for generations to come.