Oyo State and Federal Government Launch Tree Initiative

The Federal Government and the Oyo State Government have endorsed the 2026 Operation One Million Trees initiative, expressing concerns about environmental degradation and the potential for a global waste-management crisis within 15 years, followed by a severe climate crisis in 20 years if no action is taken. The initiative, led by the Association for Forest Conservation and Green Industrial Charcoal Merchants, was launched at the First Bank Building, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ibadan.

Dr Igbinosa Osakwe, representing Honourable Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal, emphasized the need for collaboration among government institutions, academia, civil society, and local communities for environmental sustainability. Oyo State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, warned against uncontrolled tree felling and urged residents and developers to prioritize tree conservation.

He recommended planting multiple trees for each one removed. Professor Adejoke Akinyele noted the initiative's alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, while Idowu Adesola and partners supported the cause.