By Adesuwa Edokpayi
As part of activities marking World Environment Day 2025, the Edo State Government has officially launched the ‘One Million Trees for Peace’ project in partnership with the Africa Initiative for Peace.
The launch event, which took place at Ehor in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, reflected the global theme for this year’s celebration, “Eliminating Plastic Pollution,” while simultaneously advancing a local agenda focused on tree planting, forest conservation, and the promotion of peace and environmental sustainability.
Representing the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, at the event was his Chief of Staff, Mallam Gani Audu, who delivered the Governor’s message of appreciation to the Africa Initiative for Peace.
He acknowledged the group’s continued collaboration and lauded its leader, Mrs Bernadette Strebel, for her steadfast commitment to environmental protection and peacebuilding.
He further gave assurances of the state government’s full support for the long-term success and sustainability of the project, which aims to plant one million trees across the state.
The symbolic groundbreaking ceremony to inaugurate the campaign was presided over by the Chairman of the Edo State Forestry Commission, Hon. Valentine Owamagbe Asuen, who welcomed guests and participants to the site.
In his remarks, Hon. Asuen described the initiative as a critical intervention not only in combating the effects of deforestation but also in reinforcing the State’s commitment to sustainable development and climate action.
Also present at the ceremony was the Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, who spoke on the interdependence between environmental protection and public health.
He pointed out that actions such as tree planting and forest preservation directly contribute to the reduction of health risks associated with pollution and environmental degradation, thereby improving overall public health outcomes.
The event featured the ceremonial planting of trees by dignitaries, stakeholders, and officials of both the Edo State Government and the Africa Initiative for Peace.
It also included an official inspection of the Clara Oshiomhole Forest Reserves, named in honour of the Commissioner for Health’s late mother, as a living tribute to her memory and a symbol of the State’s green legacy.
The campaign is expected to continue across various parts of Edo State, mobilising communities and organisations to participate in planting trees as a proactive step toward a healthier and more peaceful environment.
