Olawunmi Ajibike
The Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning forestry as a major driver of economic growth, revealing that over five million trees have been planted across the state through strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing livelihoods, attracting investments, and promoting environmental sustainability.
The Commissioner for Forestry, Engr. Taiwo Oludotun, made this known during the celebration of the International Day of Forests themed “Forests and Economy,” held at the State Secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Oludotun explained that the large-scale tree planting initiative is tackling environmental challenges such as erosion and carbon emissions, while also generating long-term economic value. He noted that forests serve as vital economic assets worldwide, providing raw materials, employment opportunities, and steady revenue streams.
According to him, Ogun State’s continued investment in afforestation is expected to stimulate activities across the forestry value chain, including timber production and related industries.
Also speaking, the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, described trees as essential economic resources with significant impact on public health and overall wellbeing. He warned that indiscriminate tree felling threatens both environmental sustainability and economic potential, urging residents to adopt responsible forest management and tree planting practices.
Onasanya added that sustained afforestation efforts would help curb environmental degradation while supporting the administration’s drive for economic diversification and natural resource development under Governor Dapo Abiodun.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Adekunle Oyesanwen, highlighted the growing economic opportunities within the forestry sector, noting that increased tree planting is attracting investments and strengthening value chain development across the state.
He stressed the need to protect forest reserves from illegal activities to ensure they continue to deliver both economic and ecological benefits.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Forestry Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, Otunba Jide Fakayode, underscored the commercial value of tree planting, encouraging individuals and private investors to explore forestry as a profitable venture.
The event underscored the state government’s resolve to harness forestry not only as an environmental initiative but also as a strategic pillar for sustainable economic development.