Ondo Environment Ministry Secures ₦50 Million GEF7 FOLUR-NG Support for Statewide Tree-Planting Initiative

The Ondo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment, has secured a ₦50 million support fund from the Global Environment Facility (GEF7 FOLUR-NG) to implement large-scale tree-planting across the state. The project is aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, including erosion, flooding, and soil degradation.The support follows a previous engagement held on December 5, 2025, when the FAO Gif7 Food Systems, Land Use and Restoration Impact Programme (FOLUR-IP) team paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, in his office in Akure.Speaking during the engagement, Dr. Loko reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to creating a safe, healthy and climate-resilient environment for humans, animals and plants. He emphasized that the escalating impacts of climate change demand urgent, collective and sustained action from all stakeholders.The Commissioner also highlighted the dangers associated with ozone layer depletion, describing it as an existential threat to life on Earth, with far-reaching consequences for humans, wildlife, aquatic ecosystems and vegetation. He stressed the need to intensify public discourse on climate change to deepen citizens’ understanding and encourage active participation in environmental protection efforts.On behalf of the Ondo State Government, Dr. Loko expressed appreciation to GEF7 for the support, noting that the initiative represents a proactive response to climate change challenges and aligns with global best practices in environmental sustainability.Confirming the support, the National Coordinator of GEF7, Prof. Oladapo Akinyemi, stated that the passion, commitment and resilience demonstrated by the Honourable Commissioner in safeguarding the state’s environment inspired the decision to finalize the partnership. He commended Dr. Loko for the achievements recorded since assuming office and encouraged him to sustain the momentum.Henry Johnson OlagundoyeMinistry of Environment