The Executive Chairman of Mosan Okunola Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Akindele Adunni Opeyemi, on Tuesday educated primary school pupils on the importance of tree planting and the environmental consequences of indiscriminate tree felling.
The tree planting exercise, held to commemorate the 2026 Lagos State Annual Tree Planting Day, themed “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” took place simultaneously across the state’s 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
The exercise was in line with the Lagos State Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Speaking to the pupils shortly after the exercise at African Church Primary School, Akinogun, Ipaja, Lagos, she also urged them to caution their parents, brothers, sisters and neighbours against the indiscriminate felling of trees in their communities.
The event was attended by the representative of the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; Mr. Arowolo Adedeji of the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK); the Vice Chairman of Mosan Okunola LCDA, Hon. Akintola Falade; legislative members led by the Leader of the House, Hon. Babatunde Oluwatosin Afuape (Snr.); the Chief of Staff, Hon. Tolutope Falope; supervisors; special advisers; management staff led by the Council Manager, Mr. Joseph Abiodun; APC chieftains; representatives of the CDC and Market Men and Women Associations; religious leaders; and others.
Addressing the pupils, Adunni highlighted the critical role trees play in protecting the environment and improving the quality of life. She explained that trees serve as the first line of defence against the effects of climate change by cooling the environment, absorbing stormwater to reduce flooding, and improving air quality.
She noted that, beyond environmental protection, trees also promote public health by creating healthier communities through cleaner air, reduced heat stress, and better recreational spaces that support physical and mental well-being.
The council chairman stressed that tree planting should not be seen as the sole responsibility of the government but as a collective duty of every resident, including local governments, traditional rulers, community development associations, schools, estates, corporate organisations, faith-based organisations, markets and families.
According to her, the theme of this year’s exercise underscores the shared responsibility of all Lagosians to protect and preserve the environment.
She added that the annual Tree Planting Day, observed every July 14 and backed by law, demonstrates the state’s enduring commitment to environmental sustainability.
Adunni also encouraged the pupils to cultivate the habit of caring for trees and flowers by watering them regularly, especially during the dry season, to ensure their healthy growth and survival.
Adunni in the Neighborhood… My Community, My Focus. My Staff, My Priority.
Signed:
S.A., Media & Public Relations
Mosan Okunola LCDA, Alimosho
July 15th, 2026