Nigeria's Environment Minister Launches Tree Planting Initiative

The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on charcoal merchants and stakeholders in the forestry and agricultural sectors to adopt sustainable practices to combat deforestation. This appeal was made by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, on Wednesday during the launch of the 2026 Operation One Million Trees programme, organized by the Association for Forest Conservation and Green Industrial Charcoal Merchants at the University of Ibadan.

Represented by Dr Osakwe Igbinosa, Lawal highlighted the severe threat deforestation poses to Nigeria's environment and economic development. He stressed the importance of tree planting in combating climate change and restoring biodiversity.

The Federal Ministry of Environment is currently implementing several initiatives, including the 2026 National Afforestation Programme and the National Greening of Cities initiative. Lawal emphasized that the success of afforestation should be measured by the survival and growth of trees.

Adeshola Idowu, Chairman of the association, advocated for planting multiple trees for every tree felled and the use of technology to enhance tree planting efforts. Oyo State Commissioner for Environment, Ademola Aderinto, warned of the impending global climate crisis if poor environmental practices continue.