Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has renewed its commitment to environmental sustainability by participating in the 2026 Lagos Tree Planting Day, with a strong call for residents to embrace tree planting as a shared responsibility for building healthier and greener communities.
Epe Insights reports that the tree planting exercise was held at the Lekki LCDA Council Secretariat as part of the Lagos State Government’s annual environmental campaign themed “Tree for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility.” The initiative encouraged residents, institutions and communities to play active roles in protecting the environment.
The exercise was led by the Executive Chairman of Lekki LCDA, Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali (MNSE, MNATE), alongside council executives, heads of departments, staff members and pupils from selected schools within the council area.
Participating schools included St. David Anglican Primary School, Oshoroko, Roman Catholic Mission Central Primary School, Lekki, and Mugraf Group of Schools. Their participation highlighted the importance of introducing environmental education at an early age.
Speaking during the programme, Engr. Kasali described tree planting as one of the simplest and most effective ways communities can contribute to environmental protection and climate action.
He explained that trees improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making communities healthier and more comfortable for residents.
The Chairman noted that trees also help reduce the effects of rising temperatures by providing shade and lowering heat in residential neighbourhoods, schools and public spaces.
According to him, planting more trees is essential in rapidly growing communities like Lekki, where increasing urban development makes environmental conservation more important than ever.
He added that trees play a vital role in reducing soil erosion, protecting biodiversity and improving water retention, particularly during the rainy season.
The Chairman stressed that expanding green spaces can also help beautify communities while creating more attractive and welcoming environments for residents and visitors.
Engr. Kasali urged every household to consider planting at least one tree and nurturing it to maturity. He said small individual efforts, when combined across communities, can produce lasting environmental benefits.
He encouraged landlords, tenants, schools, religious organisations and business owners to participate actively in tree planting campaigns throughout the year.
The Chairman also called on Community Development Associations (CDAs) and residents’ associations to organise neighbourhood tree planting exercises and adopt public spaces where trees can be planted and maintained.
He recommended that schools establish environmental clubs where pupils can learn practical lessons about tree planting, conservation and climate responsibility.
According to him, involving children in environmental activities will help build a generation that values nature and understands the importance of protecting natural resources.
Residents were encouraged to avoid cutting down healthy trees unnecessarily and to replace any removed trees by planting new ones in suitable locations.
The council also advised property developers to incorporate landscaping and tree planting into residential and commercial projects to preserve the natural beauty of Lekki while supporting sustainable urban development.
Environmental experts have consistently noted that trees improve air quality, reduce flooding by absorbing rainwater, provide habitats for wildlife and contribute to healthier ecosystems.
The annual tree planting exercise also serves as a reminder that environmental protection cannot be achieved by government alone. Lasting success depends on active participation from individuals, families, schools and community organisations.
Participants at the event praised the initiative and described it as an opportunity to strengthen environmental awareness across Lekki LCDA.
Many residents expressed support for regular community tree planting campaigns and environmental education programmes that encourage more people to become involved.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Lagos State Government, schools, community leaders and environmental stakeholders to sustain tree planting initiatives and expand green spaces across the local council area.
As Lekki continues to grow into one of Lagos State’s fastest-developing communities, Engr. Kasali said protecting the environment must remain a collective responsibility. He urged every resident to plant, protect and nurture trees, describing today’s actions as an investment in a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.
