By Abdullahi Lukman
The Osun State Government has concluded a two-day tree planting campaign aimed at promoting environmental restoration and afforestation across the state as part of activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day.
The exercise, organised by the Office of the Director-General and Special Envoy to the Governor on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, was held from June 4 to 5 and featured climate change awareness programmes, distribution of tree seedlings, donation of educational materials, and interactive climate education sessions.
The initiative forms part of the Imole Green School Initiative, a programme designed to expand green cover across the state while encouraging environmental responsibility among students and young people.
Participating institutions included Islamic College, Phoebe Star School, Oasis School and Olive Branch School in Osogbo, Oba Laoye Grammar School and Ede High School in Ede, as well as the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun.
Speaking at the grand finale held at the Department of Environmental Health Science, Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun, the Director-General and Special Envoy to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Prof. Chinwe Obuaku, described tree planting as a critical step towards addressing environmental challenges and securing a sustainable future.
According to her, climate change goes beyond environmental concerns and directly affects livelihoods, education, and community development. She noted that every tree planted represents a commitment to future generations and a collective effort to protect the environment.
Prof. Obuaku also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the Imole Green School Initiative, describing it as a long-term platform for empowering students and communities to champion environmental sustainability.
She added that the tree planting campaign would continue across the state, with more schools expected to receive seedlings and support in the coming months.
The office has also extended partnership opportunities to security agencies, offering technical support and seedlings to help green their facilities.
The Osun State Government, she said, remains committed to sustainable environmental management, renewable energy development and climate resilience as key components of its development agenda.
