As part of its ongoing statewide environmental sustainability initiative, the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) has intensified its tree planting campaign in Badagry, with the planting of hundreds of tree seedlings across schools, public spaces, and key government institutions within the ancient town.
The week-long exercise, coordinated by Mrs. Adebimpe Kuponu, Head Tree Planting and Maintenance Department, on behalf of the General Manager of LASPARK, Mrs. Adetoun Popoola, commenced on Tuesday with a target of planting 554 trees across strategic locations in Badagry.
Institutions and locations covered during the exercise include Muslim Primary School, Badagry; Ansar-Ud-Deen Society Model Nursery and Primary School, Badagry; Badagry Grammar School, Badagry Local Government Secretariat, and Badagry City Hall.
Other areas where trees were planted are, Muslim Praying Ground Perimeter Fence, Badagry Cemetery Perimeter Fence, General Hospital Badagry Perimeter Fence, Lagos Theatre, Badagry Perimeter Fence, and Lagos State Judiciary Complex, Badagry.
At the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, LASPARK officials were received by the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, who officially flagged off the exercise by planting trees at designated locations within the Secretariat premises.
Speaking during the ceremony, Hon. Hunpe expressed appreciation to LASPARK for partnering with the Local Government in advancing the environmental sustainability agenda of the Lagos State Government.
According to him, the initiative aligns with broader efforts aimed at combating climate change, improving air quality, reducing environmental degradation, and promoting healthier communities across Lagos State.
The Chairman described tree planting as more than an environmental activity, noting that it represents a long-term investment in ecological balance, public health, and the wellbeing of future generations.
He further emphasised that urban greening remains an essential strategy for addressing rising temperatures, erosion, flooding, and other environmental challenges associated with rapid urbanisation.
Hon. Hunpe noted that beyond beautifying the environment, trees serve as natural carbon sinks, enhance biodiversity, provide shade, reduce heat intensity, and contribute significantly to environmental resilience, particularly in coastal communities such as Badagry.
He, therefore, urged residents, schools, market communities, and other stakeholders to embrace environmental stewardship by nurturing and protecting the planted trees, while supporting initiatives aimed at creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable environment.
The exercise was witnessed by LASPARK officials, members of the Badagry Executive Council, legislative and management staff of the Local Government, environmental health officers, community leaders, stakeholders, and residents.
