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From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
The Ogun State Government has called on plank sellers and woodworkers in the state to engage in tree planting to boost afforestation, protect the environment and preserve the state’s forest reserves.
The State Commissioner for Forestry, Taiwo Oludotun, gave the charge at the 10th anniversary of the Irewolede Plank Sellers and Wood Workers Association in Ogun State.
Oludotun disclosed that the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun had planted about five million trees, adding that the state’s nine forest reserves were now fully functional.
He urged those in the wood business to partner with the government and source timber from the forest reserves, while also planting more trees to sustain the environment.
Stakeholders who spoke at the event in their respective remarks called on the plank sellers to embrace technology to improve their operations and protect the environment.
They also urged younger people to cultivate the habit of protecting nature, stressing that sustainable forestry is essential for a healthier environment and better future.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Irewolede Plank Sellers and Woodworkers Association, Mr Gbemisola Adenekan, said the event was more than a celebration of 10 years anniversary, but a celebration of unity, resilience, hard work, enterprise and the strength of the association’s collective spirit.
Adenekan informed the gathering that the association has coordinated the affairs of plank sellers and woodworkers at Sawmill, Lafenwa, in Abeokuta, while promoting the welfare, peaceful coexistence and economic interests of members
He commended the Ogun State Government for its continued efforts towards creating an enabling environment for businesses, artisans and other productive sectors of the economy.
“Our members can only thrive when there is peace, security and an environment that supports legitimate economic activities”, Adenekan said.
While praising the past and present executives of the association, the Chairman lauded the Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor on Student Affairs, Adeyemi Azeez, for his dedication, sacrifices and commitment to the growth of the association.
“Our theme, ‘The Future of Wood: Securing Livelihoods, Advancing Agriculture, Preserving Culture, Promoting Health and Driving Modernisation,’ reminds us that the future of our industry requires responsibility, innovation and collaboration. As we celebrate our past, we must also prepare ourselves for a more sustainable, modern and prosperous future.
“As Chairman, I assure you that we remain committed to building an association that protects the interests of its members, promotes unity and contributes meaningfully to the development of our community and Ogun State”, Adenekan submitted.
