Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on residents to actively participate in tree-planting and ensure the survival of every tree planted after planting it already planted 13,401 in 2026 alone as  part of the state’s efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation.

The governor disclosed that Lagos aims to plant at least 20,000 trees in 2026, with 13,401 trees already planted as of June 30. According to him, this represents 67 per cent of the state’s annual target, while planting activities will continue throughout the rainy season until October.

The update was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the spokesperson for the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Adekunle Adeshina.

Sanwo-Olu made the appeal during the 2026 Tree Planting Day celebration held at Eko Amore Gardens on Freedom Way, Lekki. Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the governor described tree planting as one of Lagos State’s major nature-based approaches to tackling climate change and environmental challenges.

He emphasised that planting trees should be accompanied by efforts to nurture them to maturity.

“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.”

Sanwo-Olu noted that trees contribute significantly to cooling urban areas, improving air quality, reducing flood risks and creating healthier communities.

As part of the state’s renewed campaign, he announced the commencement of tree planting activities across all 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas. He also directed council chairmen to serve as Tree Custodians, responsible for protecting and monitoring trees within their respective jurisdictions.

The governor further reminded residents that existing state laws require anyone who unlawfully cuts down a tree to replace it with five new ones.

He also unveiled 20 Lagos Tree Champions—individuals and organisations recognised for supporting the state’s greening initiative—and encouraged 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 tree planting exercise as a strategic measure designed to reduce the impacts of climate change while encouraging environmental responsibility.

He explained that the 2026 theme, “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” highlights the importance of collective participation in safeguarding the environment.

Wahab said, “The celebration goes beyond a ceremonial event. It serves as a reminder that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility.”

He added, “The increasing occurrence of extreme weather events, flooding, land degradation, biodiversity loss and rising temperatures across the globe underscores the urgent need for collective climate action, while tree planting remains one of the simplest and most effective nature-based solutions.”

According to the commissioner, every one of the state’s 57 LGAs and LCDAs has been designated as a Tree Custodian and will be responsible for nurturing and monitoring newly planted trees for a minimum of 12 months to improve survival rates.

He urged residents to view every tree planted as an investment in the future and to adopt environmentally responsible practices that would preserve Lagos State’s natural heritage.

Also speaking at the event, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Oluremi Hamzat, said Lagos continues to face environmental pressures caused by rapid urbanisation, increasing temperatures, flooding and environmental degradation.

She stated that tree planting remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve air quality, reduce heat, conserve biodiversity and strengthen community resilience.

Hamzat described tree planting as an investment in the health, safety and prosperity of future generations and encouraged families, schools, faith-based organisations, market associations and private sector operators to make it a regular practice that leaves a lasting environmental legacy.

Source: Punch