Environment Commissioner Ademola Aderinto says the initiative will expand forest cover, tackle climate change and strengthen forest security through public-private partnerships.
The Oyo State Government has launched a 10-year reforestation plan aimed at restoring degraded forests, expanding tree cover and promoting environmental sustainability across the state.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, disclosed that the state had identified a deficit of 240 million trees and was taking steps to address the challenge through the Oyo State Reforestation Plan (OYRP).
Speaking at the launch and stakeholders’ engagement, Aderinto said the initiative would address deforestation, illegal encroachment and the effects of climate change. He added that the government would partner with schools, communities and other stakeholders to achieve its targets.
The commissioner also announced plans to train students and reward schools that plant more trees. He said the government was working towards ensuring that every corps member posted to Oyo State plants at least one tree before completing their service year, with outstanding participants receiving cash prizes and awards.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Sunday Akinwale Moradeyo, said the relocation of the Forestry Department to the Ministry of Environment in 2019 had improved its access to government support and resources.
At the stakeholders’ meeting, participants called for stronger collaboration, continuous monitoring of forest reserves and the revival of the compartmentalisation system to improve forest management and security. They also proposed a committee involving representatives of forest users to ensure the sustainability of the initiative.