Date: 2016-08-03

The Kwara State Government yesterday flagged off 2016 tree planting campaign in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of the state. Speaking at the official flag off, the state governor, Alhaji AbdulFatah Ahmed advised the people to cultivate the habit of tree planting. The State Commissioner for Environment and Forestry, Otunba Taiwo Joseph who represented the governor said "planting is very important apart from the economic value, it also protects our environment".

Governor AbduFatah Ahmed, said, "Forestry is a long term investment, it repositions to address present day challenges and requires huge funding which government alone cannot do".

He added that, "with Public Private Partnership initiative, I am sure we will get to the promised land". The governor informed that, "today's afforestration event is an actualization of one of the key policy thrusts of this present administration as well as the mandates of my ministry.

"I must remind us that establishing a plantation is beyond planting trees. Trees need to be turned, maintained and protected against weeds, fire and illegal encroachment".

He disclosed that 20 hectares of land had been pegged down for the project to take off in Eruku, and called on the people to support the government in order for the project to see the light of the day. He also said the project had been designed to hold across the three senatorial districts of the state.

The Owa of Eruku, HRH, Oba Busari Olanrewaju assured government the support and corporation of the people of the town to ensure that success was achieved. In his remark, the Chairman Ekiti Local Government Area, Akintoba Fatigun who appreciated the state government's initiatives, promised that such gesture would be replicated across the local government.

Fatigun mentioned that the programme would boost the economy of Eruku and create job opportunities for youths from Eruku and its environment.

The function was well attended by management and staff of the Ministry, and some traditional chiefs from Eruku among other dignitaries. Governor Ahmed earlier paid a visit to the palace of the traditional ruler where he was received warmly by the traditional ruler and the people of the community.