In line with the Lagos State Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Ikeja Local Government joined other Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas across the State to commemorate the 2026 Lagos State Tree Planting Day with the theme, “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility”.
The event, held under the bridge, opposite the Ikeja Secretariat brought together government officials, environmental stakeholders, community leaders and residents to promote environmental stewardship through tree planting.
Present at the ceremony were the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda; the Vice Chairman, Hon Omisore Abisola; the Secretary to the Local Government Prince Adeyinka Illo; the Leader of the Legislative Arm,
Hon Rasheed Ogunseye; the Council Manager, Mrs Juliannah Odubeko Taiwo; the Majority Leader, Hon Ganiyu Lawal; the Supervisors; the Special Advisers; members of the entire Management staff of Ikeja Local Government.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Director, Ministry of the Environment, Mrs. Adedayo Aderonke; the Deputy Director, Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK), Mrs. Idowu Adebisi Tolulope; representatives of the Community Development Committee (CDC); the Iyaloja General; and other distinguished guests.
Delivering the first goodwill message, Mrs. Adedayo Aderonke, Deputy Director, Ministry of the Environment, highlighted the significance of the annual Tree Planting Day initiative. She explained that the exercise was introduced to encourage afforestation, ensure the availability of raw materials for industries, and protect the environment from the devastating effects of deforestation.
According to her, unchecked deforestation has contributed significantly to flooding, land degradation, erosion, rising temperatures and environmental pollution. She stressed that tree planting remains one of the most effective ways of mitigating climate change, improving air quality, reducing flooding, conserving biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, providing shade, beautifying communities, and creating healthier and more sustainable environments. She urged residents to actively participate in planting and nurturing trees, adding that collective efforts would make Lagos a greener and safer place for present and future generations. She concluded by thanking God for the successful organisation of the programme.
Speaking on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Deputy Director of LASPARK, Mrs. Idowu Adebisi Tolulope, described this year’s theme, “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” as a reminder that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility. She noted that as Lagos continues to experience rapid urbanisation, tree planting has become a strategic tool for combating climate change, reducing heat stress, improving air quality, managing stormwater, preserving biodiversity and enhancing public health. She commended LASPARK and its development partners for their continuous efforts in greening Lagos through tree planting, environmental education and community partnerships, while calling on individuals, organisations and corporate bodies to continue supporting the initiative.
The Head of Department, Environment (Sanitation), Mrs. Olatunde Omotayo, also addressed participants on the numerous environmental benefits of tree planting. She stated that trees play a vital role in improving air quality, reducing flooding, mitigating the effects of climate change, enhancing biodiversity and creating healthier communities. She encouraged residents to embrace tree planting as a civic responsibility, concluding with the call: “Together, let us make Lagos healthier, greener and more resilient.”
In his keynote address, the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), who represented the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability through continuous tree planting and preservation.
Quoting the late environmentalist Wangari Maathai, he noted that meaningful environmental action goes beyond words and requires collective commitment. He stated that the annual Tree Planting Day represents Lagos State’s resolve to build a greener, healthier and more climate-resilient city.
The Chairman commended the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) for its consistent efforts in driving the greening agenda across the State and highlighted the importance of trees in combating climate change, reducing urban heat, improving air quality, controlling flooding and promoting public health. He further stressed that protecting the environment is the responsibility of every resident and encouraged individuals, communities, schools, markets, religious organisations and private establishments to actively participate in tree planting and nurture planted trees to maturity.
The Supervisor for Environment, Hon. Edward Samuel, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the Executive Chairman, invited guests, officials of the Ministry of the Environment, LASPARK, management, staff, community leaders and all participants for their support and commitment towards making the programme a success. He urged everyone to sustain the culture of environmental responsibility by planting and protecting trees within their communities.
The event climaxed with the symbolic tree planting and official flag-off ceremony, led by the Executive Chairman alongside dignitaries and stakeholders. Trees were planted at designated locations within Ikeja Local Government as part of the Statewide campaign, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to building a greener, healthier and more sustainable environment for all residents.
