Edo State Celebrates International Day of Forests with 1,000 Seedling Donation to Sawmiller’s Association
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Edo State Celebrates International Day of Forests with 1,000 Seedling Donation to Sawmiller’s Association
By Adesuwa Ehimuan
In commemoration of the International Day of Forests observed globally by the United Nations on March 21, the 2025 theme, “Forests and Food,” underscores the vital role of forests in ensuring food security, nutrition, and livelihoods.
Forests not only contribute essential food sources—such as fruits, nuts, seeds, mushrooms, honey, and wild meat—but also play a significant part in maintaining ecosystems and mitigating climate change, particularly for Indigenous and forest-dependent communities.
In a bid to promote reforestation and biodiversity, the Edo State Government, in collaboration with the Edo State Forest Commission under the leadership of its Functioning Chairman, Comrade Edo Henry Osagie, handed over 1,000 seedlings of various plant species to the President Sawmiller Association of Edo State. The donation, part of the state’s restoration program, took place in Ovia North-East Local Government Area.
Comrade Friday Aiguokhian JP, President of the Edo State Sawmiller’s Association, expressed his gratitude, stating, “On behalf of the Executive and Members of the Sawmiller Association of Edo State, we appreciate His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, for his unflinching support and for observing this year’s International Day of Forests.”
He further highlighted the initiative’s significance: “This gesture is a living example of our dedication to protecting nature and promoting biodiversity. It reinforces the importance of living with, utilizing, and protecting nature. We are extending the donation of these seedlings to primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, beginning with Igbinedion University in Okada, Edo State.”
The event culminated with a group photograph following the official handover, marking a high point in the celebration and reinforcing Edo State’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
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