By Tony Eri
In a bold move to combat environmental degradation, First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Mrs Nonye Soludo, has launched the 2024 Anambra Tree Planting Day and Urban Forestation initiative.
The event, which took place at Orpet Fuel Station in Agu Awka, marks a significant step towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for the state.
Mrs. Soludo, speaking passionately about the importance of the initiative, stated, “Trees are life, and we must strive for a clean, green, and sustainable Anambra State.” She emphasized that tree planting is a fundamental pillar of her Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo campaign, underscoring its vital role in environmental preservation.
The First Lady urged citizens to embrace tree planting, saying, “We can never go wrong with planting trees. When we cut down trees, we kill our environment, but today, with the Solution government in charge and also to the Ministry of Environment spearheaded by Dr. Felix Odimegwu, we are bringing back tree planting culture and restoring back our environment.”
Mrs. Soludo also called for a collective effort to protect the environment, urging those who cut down trees to desist from such practices. She proposed the establishment of a toll number for residents to report incidents of tree cutting, demonstrating her commitment to proactive environmental protection.
Dr. Felix Odimegwu, the Commissioner for Environment, highlighted the historic significance of the event, noting that this is the first time a tree planting day has been passed into law by the Anambra State House of Assembly. He emphasized the numerous benefits of trees, including their role as nature’s air filters, prevention of soil erosion, and reduction of runoff.
As Anambra State embarks on this ambitious tree planting initiative, it sets a precedent for other states to follow suit in the battle against environmental degradation. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role each individual plays in preserving our planet for future generations.
