The Ogun State Government has linked ongoing tree-planting exercises in forest reserves across the state to improved security, saying the initiative has made the forests hostile to kidnappers, militant groups, and land grabbers.
The Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun, made this known in Abeokuta while speaking to staff during a prayer session organised by the ministry, noting that sustained tree-planting efforts had driven kidnappers, militants, and land grabbers away from the forest reserves.
He encouraged staff to remain optimistic and work collaboratively, stressing that no assignment was impossible when tackled with the right attitude and effective teamwork, in order to meet the ministry’s targets for the New Year.
Oludotun explained that the ministry had been given ambitious targets for the year, emphasising that only collective commitment would ensure their achievement. He added that the state government had provided a supportive work environment by supplying key facilities to boost staff efficiency.
He listed solar-powered lighting systems and walkie-talkies among newly procured equipment aimed at ensuring seamless operations within the ministry.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Adekunle Oyesanwen, cautioned staff to strictly observe due process and ensure that all official correspondence followed the appropriate administrative channels.
