By Henry Oladele
The Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) has called on students and residents to take tree planting as a shared responsibility to protect the environment and tackle climate change..
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bidemi Lafiaji-Okuneye, made the call at the 2026 Tree Planting Campaign held at the university’s auditorium, Otto-Ijanikin, Lagos.
The theme for the event is “Tree for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility’’.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Prof. Daodu Adedayo, Lafiaji-Okuneye said the exercise was more than ceremonial.
She added that it “symbolises a commitment to environmental sustainability and to future generations.”
“Every tree planted today represents hope for a cleaner environment, healthier communities and a sustainable future for children yet unborn.’’
She recalled that the state inaugurated the annual tree planting initiative in 2008 under former Gov. Babatunde Fashola to restore the environment.
The vice-chancellor said successive administrations had sustained and expanded the initiative into an enduring environmental culture across the state.
She commended Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for strengthening policies aimed at combating climate change, improving air quality and creating a healthier environment.
Lafiaji-Okuneye said the campaign’s theme underscored that environmental protection should not be left to the government alone.
She urged residents, students and staff with members of the university to actively participate in tree planting and safeguard existing trees within their communities.
“Trees are the lungs of our cities; they absorb carbon emissions, improve air quality, reduce urban heat and preserve biodiversity,” she said.
The vice-chancellor added that every tree planted was a practical investment in environmental resilience and a significant step toward mitigating global warming.
She said LASUED, as the state’s premier university of education, remained committed to promoting environmental awareness through teaching, research and community engagement.
She noted that the institution won Lagos State’s Best Tree Planting Institution Award in 2024, describing the recognition as motivation to sustain the culture.
According to her, universities have a responsibility to shape environmentally conscious graduates, who will champion sustainable practices in schools, workplaces and communities.
She stressed that the success of the campaign would depend on nurturing and protecting the seedlings long after the ceremony.
“Tree planting is not a one-day event but a lifelong commitment that requires continuous care and dedication,” she said.
The vice-chancellor urged participants to see every available space as an opportunity to restore nature and improve the environment.
Lafiaji-Okuneye called on residents to support the government’s efforts by planting trees in homes, schools and neighbourhoods for the benefit of present and future generations. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Esenvosa Izah