Kwara governor visits injured soldiers, pledges N90m to officers

Lagos introduces N2.5 million tree-planting prize to combat urban heat

The Lagos State Government has launched a N2.5 million tree-planting prize as part of its 2026 World Environment Day activities, aiming to encourage environmental sustainability and address urban heat. This initiative was announced by Olalekan Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, during the World Environment Day celebration in Ikeja. The state's efforts come as the United Nations recognized Lagos among 50 cities globally susceptible to extreme temperatures up to 50°C. The event, themed “Inspired by Nature for Climate, For Our Future,” highlighted nature-based solutions for climate change. Lagos plans to plant 500 trees and introduce the “Me and My Tree” initiative, providing free seedlings to participants who will nurture them for a year, with the best-performing tree receiving the N2.5 million reward. Lagos will also join the United Nations Environment Programme’s 50 Cities at 50°C initiative, adopting the theme “50 Cities at 50°C: Lagos Rising Against the Urban Heat Island.” Rotimi-Akodu noted that climate change, rapid urbanization, and population growth are increasing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing vegetation, and raising temperatures. The World Meteorological Organisation confirmed 2024 as the warmest year on record. Lagos, as Africa’s most populous city, is vulnerable to climate threats like sea level rise, extreme heat, and flooding, which impact public health, productivity, and air quality. Measures include investments in an integrated tra