Ashimi leads Somolu’s Annual Tree Planting Campaign, Advocates Greener Environment

The Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Hon. Lateef Ashimi, on Tuesday joined government officials, community leaders and environmental stakeholders to commemorate the 2026 Annual Tree Planting Day, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability and a cleaner, greener Somolu.

The event, held under the theme, “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” brought together representatives of the Lagos State Government, traditional rulers, political leaders, community development associations, environmental officers and residents in a collective effort to promote tree planting as a vital tool for environmental conservation.

Hon. Ashimi participated in the exercise alongside the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, who was represented by the General Manager of LASPARK Zone 5, Mrs Temitope Okunmuyide. Also in attendance were members of the Somolu Executive Council, the Legislative Arm of the Local Government, party leaders, representatives of Community Development Committees (CDC) and Community Development Associations (CDAs), Baales, environmental officers and other key stakeholders.

The tree planting exercise commenced at the Somolu Local Government Secretariat before extending to the premises of St. Augustine Primary School, St. Paul Primary School and St. Peter Primary School, where various species of trees were planted to enhance the environment, improve air quality and encourage biodiversity.

Speaking during the programme, Ashimi described tree planting as a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of government, institutions and residents. He noted that beyond beautifying the environment, trees play a critical role in combating climate change, preventing erosion, reducing excessive heat and creating healthier communities.

The council chairman urged residents, particularly young people and school pupils, to cultivate the habit of planting and nurturing trees, stressing that environmental protection begins with individual commitment and community action.

He also commended the Lagos State Government for sustaining the annual tree planting initiative, describing it as a strategic investment in the future of the state’s environment and an important step toward building climate-resilient communities.

Representing the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mrs Temitope Okunmuyide applauded the Somolu Local Government for its active participation in the exercise and encouraged residents to take ownership of the trees planted, emphasising that their survival depends on continuous care and maintenance.

Stakeholders at the event reiterated the need for stronger collaboration among government agencies, community leaders and residents to preserve the environment and ensure a healthier ecosystem for future generations.

The Annual Tree Planting Day has become one of Lagos State’s flagship environmental initiatives aimed at increasing the state’s green cover, mitigating the effects of climate change and promoting sustainable urban development.

The event concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to supporting environmental initiatives that align with the vision of a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable Lagos, while also advancing Somolu Local Government’s development agenda of building a resilient and environmentally friendly community.