Ado Ekiti, March 21, 2025 – Governor Biodun Oyebanji declared sustainable forest management vital for food security and environmental conservation during the 2025 International Day of Forests.
Speaking through Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, Head of Service, he stressed forests’ role in biodiversity, climate resilience, and livelihoods, urging collective action to protect ecosystems.
Transitioning to this year’s theme, “Forests and Food,” Oyebanji emphasized forests as lifelines beyond timber, supporting global nutrition and economic growth.
He outlined state plans to integrate forestry into development agendas, ensuring ecological balance aligns with community needs.
Meanwhile, Hon. Oladele Ogunsakin, Vice Chairman of the House Environment Committee, applauded the administration’s environmental focus, urging amplified afforestation to counter deforestation.
Similarly, Environment Commissioner Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, represented by Permanent Secretary Tunde Balogun, praised state-NGO partnerships combating bush burning and deforestation.
She encouraged sustainable farming practices, linking forest health to agricultural productivity.
Concurrently, Forestry Commission Chairman Idowu Akinlabi highlighted forests’ multifaceted value, urging communities to adopt conservation as a cultural priority.
Furthermore, Executive Secretary Sunday Adekunle thanked Oyebanji for backing forestry projects but warned against unchecked logging in northern zones.
To foster youth involvement, he distributed 100 seedlings per school, linking education to environmental stewardship.
Additionally, Commissioner Taiwo Olatunbosun reinforced the link between public awareness and policy success, urging media collaboration.
However, challenges persist: illegal logging and land degradation threaten progress. Officials pledged stricter enforcement and community dialogues to address these risks.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary Babatope Ojo linked forest preservation to food security, noting agroforestry’s potential to boost crop yields.
In conclusion, stakeholders unanimously endorsed a multi-sector approach, merging policy, education, and grassroots action.
By prioritizing forests, Ekiti aims to balance ecological integrity with economic growth, ensuring resources endure for future generations.
The event closed with ceremonial tree plantings, symbolizing renewed commitment to a greener, food-secure future.