Environment Minister Lawal Launches Tree Planting Initiative

On October 1, 2026, Balarabe Lawal, the Minister of Environment, called on charcoal merchants and forestry stakeholders to support sustainable practices at the launch of the 2026 Operation One Million Trees Tree Planting Programme. This event took place at the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, University of Ibadan, Ibadan.

Lawal, represented by Dr Osakwe Igbinosa, highlighted tree planting as a vital measure for addressing climate change, reversing deforestation, and restoring biodiversity. He emphasized the critical benefits of Nigeria’s forests, including biodiversity conservation and livelihoods for millions.

The minister reiterated the government's commitment to sustainable forest management through various initiatives, including the National Afforestation Programme launched on June 8, 2026, and the Sovereign Green Bond Afforestation Programme. Lawal stressed that the success of afforestation should be measured by the survival and growth of trees into healthy forests, not just by the number of seedlings planted.