Kunle Adelabu
The Igbogbo Platinum Lions Club, District 401A1, has partnered with the Lagos State Government and Igbogbo/Bayeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in planting trees in Igbogbo.
While assuring that it will preserve planted trees and sustain the exercise, the club also charged the Council and residents to imbibe the culture of regular planting of trees.
The exercise, which was attended by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat, took place at the Colour Party House, along Babajimi Benson Road (formerly Igbe Road), on Thursday, July 14, 2022.
Dr Hamzat, who was represented by Mr Olajide Olakunle, in his keynote address, said that the continuation of tree planting in the state has improved the environment.
While stating that the climatic challenges facing the world started in various communities before it becomes global, the Deputy Governor also added that the state government is doing everything to combat the challenges.
“For over a decade, the tradition of tree planting across the state has contributed to building a greener and healthier environment. This year’s occasion is no different and should be seen as yet another way to express our love for nature and promote a balance in the economic, social and environmental needs of present and future generations”, he said.
“Dear Lagosians, the environmental crisis did not begin globally, it began locally. One of the most important aspects of rearticulating human development is to be fair to nature and other living beings. We cannot be developed unless our lives become reconnected and in balance, cooperation and harmony with nature.
“It is worthy of note that climate action is now mainstream in our sectorial policies and plans. With the Lagos State Climate Action Plan (2020 – 2025), our administration is serious about incorporating climate – friendly initiatives into everything we do as a government. The Climate action encapsulates the state’s vision for combating the challenge of climate change and achieving the ultimate goal of a zero – carbon Lagos. There is growing awareness among the citizenry about the need to rethink the way we live and consume, as well as the roles that each of us can play to make a difference.
Dr. Hamzat also called on every Lagosian to support the government in protecting the environment and makes it safer.
“As we forge a 21st century architecture of environment health that harmonizes natural resources with health and prosperity, tree planting will continue to play a starring role. Trees being a lifesaving investment empowers communities to increase green spaces and create opportunities for future resilience, broadly interact with nature and its resources and be more sensitive to sustainability issues.
“While the government is expected to lead the process, success will depend on concerted efforts by all stakeholders. There is clearly no more time to waste if we want to restore hope for the present and future generations; nature must be at the heart of development, and all of us, as societies, companies and individuals must make conscious effort to live in harmony with nature”
Builder Sesan Daini, Chairman, Igbogbo/Baye LCDA represented by his Vice, Hon, Okedina Maja, said that the Council is joining hands with the state government in ensuring that tree planting is sustained.
“Let us understand trees as life. It provides what you breathe in, the absence of which all living animals will die. Your food and other nourishments come from trees”, he said.
“Like all governments, we, in Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, join hands with the Governor Sanwo – Olu led administration in fidelity to this noble cause.
“Remember to plant one three per week or at most, a tree a month”, he added.
Lion Ashake Wahab, President, Igbogbo Platinum Lions Club, 2022/2023, speaking with THE IMPACT, said the club is partnering with government to plant trees and bring about good living conditions.
“We are involved in the tree planting today because our District Governor, 404A1, directed us to participate in the exercise by the Lagos State Government”, he said.
“Tree planting is very important in human beings existence. It affects our breathing and lives generally. Planting trees within our environment bring peace and calmness to the people and community at large”.
He assured that trees planted will not only be monitored, but the exercise will be sustained.
“Our plan to sustain the trees being planted is to work with our Leos by visiting the location every three days to ensure that they survive and sustain. It is incumbent on us to do that for the trees to serve their purpose to the community”, she said.
“I will enjoin residents to help us in sustaining these trees and also involve in planting more.
Lion Jimi Temidayo, chieftain of the Igbogbo Platinum Lions Club, also charged residents to imbibe the principle of tree planting while charging the council to do more in educating the people on the importance of trees.
“I will enjoin residents in joining us in sustaining these trees and most importantly, they should cultivate the habit of planting trees. They need trees as much as they need life. Good for us, good for them and good for the community and good for the world at large”.
“I will urge the council to use its environment ministry to ensure the survival of all these trees and also ensure that tree planting is not just a one – off thing but a continuous event for the betterment of all”.
Other guests at the event are Barr. Ade Ayeni. Secretary to the Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, Mr Ade Bolowotan, Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, Mr Dauda Oshinlaja, Supervisory Councilor for Environment and Hon. Wasiu Olowu, Supervisory Councilor for Tourism among other dignitaries
