Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a greener and more climate-resilient future during the 2026 Lagos Tree Planting Day celebration.
Eko Hot News reports that Tokunbo Wahab led stakeholders, environmental advocates, community leaders and government officials at Eko Amore Gardens in Lekki to commemorate the annual tree planting campaign aimed at expanding the state’s green cover.
The commissioner welcomed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, alongside the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, Tree Champions and other distinguished guests.
Speaking at the event, Wahab described tree planting as one of the most practical and sustainable environmental solutions for addressing climate challenges and improving the quality of life across Lagos.
He explained that this year’s theme, “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” reflects the collective role of government, private organisations and residents in protecting the environment.
According to the commissioner, tree planting goes beyond ceremonial activities, serving as a long-term investment in environmental sustainability and urban resilience.
He noted that increasing the number of trees across Lagos will help improve air quality, reduce urban heat, strengthen biodiversity and support effective flood management.
Wahab said the initiative also contributes to creating healthier neighbourhoods, enhancing public spaces and promoting sustainable urban development.
The commissioner revealed that Governor Sanwo-Olu has set a target of planting 20,000 trees across Lagos during the 2026 planting season.
He disclosed that as of June 30, the state had already planted 13,401 trees, representing 67 per cent of the annual target.
According to Wahab, the new planting season has officially commenced across all 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas.
He explained that tree planting activities will continue throughout the rainy season until October to maximise tree survival and healthy growth.
To strengthen accountability, the commissioner announced that every Local Government and LCDA chairman has been designated as a Tree Custodian.
Under the initiative, council chairmen will oversee the care, monitoring and maintenance of newly planted trees within their respective jurisdictions for a minimum of 12 months.
Wahab described the new responsibility as an important step towards ensuring that planted trees survive, mature and deliver long-term environmental benefits.
He stressed that successful environmental conservation depends not only on planting trees but also on nurturing them throughout their growth cycle.
The commissioner also announced the unveiling of the 20 Lagos Tree Champions, individuals and organisations recognised for their outstanding contributions to expanding the state’s green environment.
He commended the award recipients for supporting environmental sustainability through advocacy, tree planting and community participation.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, through his representative, encouraged Lagos residents to actively participate in the campaign by planting trees within homes, schools, workplaces and public spaces.
The governor urged residents to see environmental stewardship as a shared civic responsibility capable of improving the future of Lagos.
Environmental experts have consistently highlighted urban tree planting as one of the most effective nature-based solutions for mitigating climate change and improving resilience in rapidly growing cities.
Trees help reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, preserve biodiversity, minimise soil erosion and regulate surface temperatures.
They also enhance the beauty of communities while creating healthier environments for residents and future generations.
Lagos State has continued investing in environmental sustainability through tree planting campaigns, drainage improvements, cleaner energy initiatives and climate adaptation programmes.
These initiatives align with the state’s broader vision of creating a cleaner, greener and more resilient megacity.
Wahab reaffirmed that the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources will continue working with local governments, environmental organisations and residents to achieve the state’s ambitious greening targets.
He called on every Lagosian to embrace the culture of planting and nurturing trees, stressing that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility that benefits both present and future generations.
