The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability as it marked the 2025 International Day of Forests with a grand event in Ado-Ekiti. The celebration, themed “Forests and Food,” was organised by the Ekiti State Forestry Commission under the leadership of its Executive Secretary, Otunba Adekunle Sunday David.
The event, held at the Commission’s office, attracted key government officials, environmental stakeholders, and representatives of non-governmental organisations advocating for forest conservation. 
Speaking on behalf of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the Ekiti State Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, emphasised the critical role of forests in human survival, highlighting their contribution to biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and food security.
“The theme ‘Forests and Food’ underscores the indispensable role of forests in sustaining life. Beyond serving as sources of timber, forests are crucial for livelihoods, agriculture, and water conservation,” she stated. 
Among the dignitaries at the event were Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Franklin Olatunbosun, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ojo Babatope. Also in attendance was the Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Oladele Ogunsakin, who lauded the government’s efforts in afforestation and environmental conservation. 
“The protection of our forests is a collective responsibility,” Ogunsakin remarked. “We must all support afforestation initiatives and sustainable land use practices to preserve our environment for future generations.”
Non-governmental organisations such as GADEF and TGED lent their voices to the need for reforestation and responsible forest management, stressing the importance of community participation in conservation efforts. 
In his address, the Executive Secretary of the Forestry Commission, Otunba Adekunle Sunday David, appreciated the governor for his unwavering support of the Commission’s initiatives. He announced that as part of efforts to promote environmental awareness among young people, the Commission would distribute 100 seedlings to each participating school. 
David decried the negative impact of excessive logging on forest reserves, citing areas such as Oke-Ako in Ikole-Ekiti, where deforestation has led to environmental degradation. He stressed the need for urgent intervention to curb illegal logging and restore degraded lands.
As part of the activities marking the celebration, Governor Oyebanji presented tree seedlings to students from various secondary schools, including Christ School, Ado Muslim College, St. Augustine Oye-Ekiti, and SUBEB Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, encouraging them to embrace environmental sustainability.
The event served as a rallying call for individuals, communities, and government institutions to prioritise forest conservation and sustainable land use.
“Keeping Ekiti working requires collective action to protect our forests. Let us all commit to preserving these invaluable resources for the benefit of future generations,” Olomojobi concluded.