NES CHARGES MEMBERS ON TREE PLANTING AS WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY IS MARKED IN ABEOKUTA Urges residents to take personal responsibility for environmental protection Tasks members to plant at least one tree each, promotes climate action drive The Chairperson of the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), Abeokuta Chapter, Alhaji (Chief) Jamiu Adebayo Badmos, has called on environmental professionals and residents to take concrete action against climate change by embracing tree planting and sustainable environmental practices. In a special message to mark the 2026 World Environment Day, Badmos stressed that environmental protection remains a shared responsibility that cannot be left to government alone, but must be driven by deliberate individual and community actions. He noted that the annual global observance serves as a reminder of the urgent need to safeguard the environment against worsening climate conditions, pollution, and ecological degradation. “This year’s celebration reminds us that environmental protection is not solely the responsibility of governments and institutions; it is a collective duty that begins with individual actions,” he said. The NES chairperson urged members of the Abeokuta chapter to lead by example by planting at least one tree each within their homes, workplaces, or communities, describing tree planting as a practical step towards environmental sustainability. According to him, a single tree plays a critical role in carbon sequestration, air purification, erosion control, biodiversity conservation, and broader climate change mitigation efforts. He further encouraged members to document and share evidence of their tree-planting activities as part of efforts to promote accountability and inspire wider public participation in environmental stewardship. “The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago; the second-best time is now,” Badmos said, urging immediate action rather than continued delay in addressing environmental challenges. He expressed optimism that sustained tree-planting efforts would contribute to making Abeokuta greener, Ogun State healthier, and Nigeria more resilient to environmental risks. Badmos reaffirmed the commitment of the NES to continued advocacy, awareness creation, and practical interventions aimed at promoting a cleaner and more sustainable environment. He congratulated members of the chapter on the occasion of the 2026 World Environment Day, charging them to remain steadfast in their commitment to environmental protection and climate action. Is