Sanwo-Olu urges Lagos residents to plant trees, says state targets 20,000 this year

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on residents to actively engage in planting and nurturing trees, highlighting the initiative as a crucial measure to combat climate change and enhance the local environment. The state has set an ambitious goal of planting at least 20,000 trees in 2026.

Progress towards this target is already significant, with 13,401 trees planted across Lagos's five administrative divisions as of June 30. This figure represents approximately 67% of the year's objective. The tree-planting efforts are ongoing and will continue throughout the rainy season until October.

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We are not just planting trees; we are planting hope and a lasting legacy. Together, we can build a Lagos that is cooler, cleaner, safer, flood-resilient and more beautiful for future generations.

Speaking at the 2026 Tree Planting Day celebration, Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the initiative as a vital nature-based strategy. "We are not just planting trees; we are planting hope and a lasting legacy," he stated, envisioning a cooler, cleaner, and more resilient Lagos for future generations.

The governor stressed that the success of the campaign depends not only on planting but also on ensuring the trees survive and mature. He noted the multiple benefits of trees, including temperature reduction, improved air quality, flood risk mitigation, and the promotion of healthier communities. To bolster these efforts, a new tree-planting campaign has been launched across all 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas, with chairpersons designated as "Tree Custodians" responsible for monitoring and protecting the newly planted trees. Furthermore, individuals who unlawfully fell trees are legally obligated to replace them with five new ones.

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Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility