The Lagos State Government has commenced a campaign to plant 500 trees as part of efforts to address rising temperatures and climate change impacts in the state.
The initiative, tagged “Me and My Tree,” was unveiled during activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day celebration in Alausa.
Residents participating in the programme will receive free seedlings, while a prize of N2.5 million has been announced for the best-performing tree after one year.
Speaking at the event, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Olalekan Rotimi-Akodu, identified rapid urbanisation, population growth, greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion as major contributors to rising temperatures.
He noted that Lagos had joined the United Nations Environment Programme’s “50 Cities at 50°C” campaign under the theme “Lagos Rising Against the Urban Heat Island.”
According to him, the state has planted more than seven million trees since 2009 as part of ongoing greening initiatives.
Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Mahamood Adegbite, also highlighted the health risks associated with extreme heat, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Stakeholders at the event discussed strategies to improve climate resilience, including increased investment in sustainable transportation and environmental conservation.
Source: Lagos State Government.
