2017 TREE PLANTING CAMPAIGN DAY LAGOS STATE written by ZAINAB YAGUDA

The annual tree planting campaign day in Lagos state took place at the State Junior High School (special) on the 14th of July 2017 at 10am. This event is an initiative of the Lagos state Government, adopted for restoring the ecological glory of the state and combating the impact of climate change. It also aims to enlighten the general public on the many benefits of tree planting in our society.
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This event which was anchored by Lanre Babatunde commenced with an invitation of dignitaries to the high table amongst which were: The representative of the Governor of Lagos state, Dr Babatunde Aweleje, The chairperson for the council of arts and culture in Lagos state, Mrs Polly Alakija, representative of the commissioner of environment Honorable Sherrif Balogun and  few others. All guests then proceeded to recite the national anthem.
The first speaker of the day was the public affairs officer for Lagos state office of disability,  Mr Adeniyi Adebowale , He explained that the reason why the event was held at the State Junior High School for special students is because those living with disabilities are not to be left out in this initiative.
The representative for the commissioner of environment, Honorable Sherrif Balogun welcomed guests and also congratulated Governor Ambode for this development which has been on for a decade. He explained that the theme for this year which is Think green, Plant trees and Live green is to inculcate Lagosians on the habit of tree planting. He added that the over population in Lagos has caused tree planting to reduce and how the government has been able to plant 1.5 million trees in 2016, which helped to create 27,500 new jobs. Honorable Sherrif made it very clear that cutting of trees without the permission of LASPARK is an offence which is punishable by law. He concluded by urging Lagosians to team up with the government to help reform the environmental sector.
Students of the State Junior High School presented an impressive cultural dance display as well as a drama presentation which left the guests in awe of their talents. The last speaker of the day was the representative of the Governor of Lagos state who read out the speech which was sent by the Governor.  In this speech Governor Ambode noted that the annual tree planting campaign is critical to the administrative agenda. He also stated that the theme of this year is in line with environmental sustainability and that over 6 million trees have been planted in the state so far. He added that trees are essential as they provide food, shelter, health benefits and also they are the cheapest mitigation options.
Governor Ambode concluded his speech by appreciating loyal partners of this event like Eco bank and urged them to sustain their support, so together they can achieve their aim. He wishes all Lagosians a happy tree planting day. The event closed with closing remarks form the principal of State Junior High School Mrs. Osude.


Zainab Yuguda






 

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