Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has called for a collective commitment to preserve the state’s forest resources.
The governor, who described sustainable forests as a critical factor in his administration’s food security agenda, said this would make the sector contribute significantly to the state’s economic development.
He spoke in Ado Ekiti at the 2025 International Day of Forests, where seedlings were distributed to schools for environmental conservation.
Represented at the event by the State Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi Governor Oyebanji stated that forests are not only sources of timber but also sustainers of livelihoods which ensures food security for millions of people.
The governor who spoke on the theme, “Forests and Food”, stressed the crucial role of forests in biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and food security.
He reiterated his commitment to sustainable forest management and environmental conservation.
Earlier, the Chairman of the State Forestry Commission, Mr. Idowu Akinlabi said the annual celebration was to reflect many values of forests and share experiences on how forests and trees enrich lives and environment.
Akinlabi, who noted that preserving the forest was necessary for food security, called on communities and individuals to support the government in protecting the ecosystem.
Also speaking, the executive secretary of Ekiti State Forestry Commission Mr. Sunday Adekunle, thanked the governor for his unwavering support on forestry initiatives in the state.
Adekunle raised concerns over deforestation and over-logging in some communities in the northern part of the State; warning that this could cause environmental degradation.
