The Kwara State Government has reiterated its commitment to combating climate change and promoting sustainable development by planting 160,000 trees across the state to curb deforestation.

Speaking at the launch of the tree planting initiative in Ijagbo, Oyun Local Government Area, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, emphasized that climate change is a global challenge that requires immediate and collective action.

The exercise, organized by Abral Development Initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, also marked the unveiling of the “Eedu Ramoni” project at the ACReSAL Nursery site.

The initiative aims to plant trees across Kwara's three senatorial districts, contributing to a greener and more sustainable environment for the state.

According to Governor AbdulRazaq, “to address this pressing issue, we must adopt sustainable forest management strategies and educate our communities about the dangers of climate change, while fostering cooperation to implement lasting solutions.”

“I want to assure you of our readiness to continue mitigating the effects of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development, that will have a direct impact on the lives of our people.” He added.

Mall. AbdulRazaq assured citizens of his administration’s dedication to advance projects, that directly impact the people.

While commending the efforts of Abral Development Initiative, led by Mr. Opeyemi AbdulHafiz Alao, for also introducing energy-saving stoves and its commitment to environmental sustainability through local solutions, the Governor highlighted some of the initiatives of the present administration, which include the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, and the development of urban green spaces, such as the remodeled Flower Garden in Ilorin.

He therefore charged Kwara citizens to actively participate in preserving the environment, stressing that collective effort is essential for achieving a sustainable future.

In his address, Mr. Opeyemi AbdulHafiz Alao underscored the importance of tree planting as a means of safeguarding the planet and improving human health, adding that “this is not just an event, but a declaration of hope and environmental stewardship, for future generations.”

The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including the First Lady of Kwara State and Chairperson, Governors’ Wives Forum, Amb. Prof. Olufolake AbdulRasaq, represented by the State Commissioner for Social Development, Abosede Olaitan Buraimo, the Deputy Governor, Mr. Kayode Alabi who was also represented by Commissioner for Energy, Kola Azeez, the Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakub Danladi, represented by his Wife, Mrs. Saadat Yakub Danladi.

Others are; the State Commissioner for Water Resources, Lade Usman, Commissioner for Agriculture, Ayobola Thomas, the Chairman of Oyun local government, Kamal Akanbi, Traditional rulers from Oyun Local Government, led by Onijagbo of Ijagbo, Oba Buhari Sharafa, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environmental Protection, Mallam Muazu Muhammad, the Special Assistant on Environmental Sanitation, Mallam Yakub Agodi, Acresal Coordinator, Alhaji Shamsudeen Aregbe, Security Agents, APC party stalwarts, among others.