Ikeja Local Government has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability with the successful hosting of its 2026 Annual Tree Planting Exercise, themed “Tree for Lagos, Our City, Our Responsibility.”The programme, organized in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment, brought together government officials, environmental stakeholders, community leaders, and residents to promote a greener and healthier Lagos.
The event featured an opening prayer, the national anthem, a welcome address, goodwill messages from invited guests, a keynote address by the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, a symbolic tree planting and flag-off ceremony, a vote of thanks, and a closing prayer.
Delivering the keynote address, the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Hon. Mojeed Alabi Balogun (Dauda), emphasized the critical role of tree planting in combating climate change, improving air quality, and creating a healthier environment for future generations. He noted that the annual exercise reflects the council’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable urban development.
Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Government, Chairman Dauda conveyed the goodwill message of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reaffirming the state’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation. He stressed that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of government, communities, corporate organizations, and residents.
According to him, the annual tree planting exercise is not merely a ceremonial event but a continuous environmental campaign aimed at restoring green spaces, mitigating the effects of climate change, and preserving the ecosystem for future generations.
“Our environment is one of our greatest assets. Every tree planted today is an investment in the future of Lagos. As citizens, we all have a responsibility to nurture our environment and support initiatives that promote a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable city,” he said.
The symbolic tree planting ceremony marked the official flag-off of this year’s exercise, with government officials and invited guests planting trees to demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability.
Among dignitaries present were representatives from the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment, the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK), officials of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), environmental stakeholders, and community representatives.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Supervisor for Environment, who appreciated all stakeholders for their support and encouraged residents to take ownership of trees planted within their communities.
The annual tree planting exercise remains one of Lagos State’s flagship environmental initiatives, aimed at increasing the state’s green cover, enhancing biodiversity, reducing the impact of climate change, and reinforcing the message that a cleaner and greener Lagos is everyone’s responsibility.
