Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to strengthen climate change resilience through sustained tree planting and environmental conservation initiatives across the state.
The governor made the commitment on Friday in Benin City during a symbolic tree-planting exercise organised to commemorate the 2026 World Environment Day.
Represented by his deputy, Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa, Okpebholo described trees as vital to human survival and environmental sustainability, stressing that urban development must be pursued without compromising environmental protection.
According to a statement issued by the chief press secretary to the deputy governor, Mr Friday Aghedo, the governor said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Urbanisation and Climate Change,” highlights the urgent need for governments and citizens to adopt sustainable practices in the face of growing environmental challenges.
“Trees are not just symbols of life; they are essential to life. They help purify the air, provide shade, reduce erosion, absorb carbon dioxide, support biodiversity and enhance the beauty of our communities,” he said.
Okpebholo noted that rapid urbanisation and increasing population growth require deliberate policies that balance development with environmental sustainability.
He warned that the effects of climate change were becoming increasingly evident across the globe, citing rising temperatures, sea-level rise, wildfires, heat waves and changing weather patterns as major concerns.
“The warning from the global scientific community is clear. Unless we act decisively, the world may soon exceed the critical threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius warming, with devastating consequences for ecosystems, livelihoods and human survival,” the governor stated.
He described World Environment Day as more than a ceremonial event, saying it serves as a call to collective responsibility towards building a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future.
The governor urged residents to embrace environmentally friendly habits, including tree planting, proper waste management, energy conservation and protection of waterways.
At the event, the Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Nosa Adams, said the tree-planting exercise underscores the state government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with the Federal Government’s green initiative aimed at promoting reforestation and ecosystem restoration.
Adams explained that the exercise also supports the United Nations’ campaign encouraging countries to regenerate forests and develop greener urban centres capable of attracting carbon credits.
He said, “Today’s tree planting exercise is symbolic, strategic and important. It demonstrates Edo State Government’s commitment to transforming Benin metropolis into a greener and cleaner city.”
Also, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, represented by Justice Idemudia Aziegbemhin, called for stricter enforcement of town planning regulations to protect the environment.
