The Edo State Government has unveiled an ambitious Green Revolution agenda aimed at deepening environmental sustainability, mitigating the impact of climate change, and improving the well-being of residents across the state.
The initiative was announced by the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Ecological and Climate Change Funding and Management Commission, Dr. Blessing Agbomhere Esq, during a press briefing held at the commission’s headquarters in Benin City.
Dr. Agbomhere disclosed that under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, the state will commence the planting of at least one million trees over the next four years, marking one of the most comprehensive ecological restoration efforts in the state’s history.
According to him, the commission is mandated to safeguard both the environment and all living organisms within it—humans, animals, and even microorganisms.
“Ecology deals with the relationship between living organisms and their environment. Our duty as a commission is to ensure harmony between these organisms and the environment they depend on,” he said.
He emphasized the crucial role trees play in maintaining ecological balance, explaining that the mutual exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between humans and trees underscores their importance in sustaining life.
“Human beings breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. Trees do the opposite. Without trees we cannot have clean air. They also prevent erosion and act as natural buffers against storms and wind,” he stated.
Dr. Agbomhere noted that the state government is prioritizing environmental sanitation, preservation, and remediation, as a clean and healthy environment directly affects human well-being.
“Most illnesses are linked to poor environmental conditions. Cleanliness is health, which is why the Governor is committed to environmental conservation,” he added.
The chairman also announced that the state will officially launch the Green Revolution Programme and the State Ecological and Climate Trust Fund on Thursday, December 11.
The Trust Fund, he said, is designed to mobilize support from individuals, organizations, and international partners who believe in the vision of Governor Okpebholo and are willing to contribute to the state’s ecological transformation.
“The government cannot do it alone. Those who can give one should give one. Those who can give ten should give ten. Those who can contribute in millions should join us. Charity begins at home,” he urged.
Dr. Agbomhere explained that the Green Revolution is a multi-sectoral initiative that cuts across various ministries and agencies. Its components include: Climate-smart agriculture; Environmental sanitation and public awareness; Conversion of petrol vehicles to CNG and solar-powered systems; Water provision for every community in Edo State; Tree planting and forest restoration among others.
He reiterated Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to ensuring that every community in Edo State has access to potable water, stressing that clean water is a necessity for both urban and rural dwellers.
“With the governor’s determination and the support of the people, Edo State is rising. We are ready to revolutionize the green space and restore our ecosystem for the benefit of all,” Dr. Agbomhere assured.
He expressed optimism that with coordinated efforts and public participation, Edo State will not only meet but could exceed the target of planting one million trees within the governor’s first four years.
The official unveiling of the Green Revolution and Trust Fund is expected to mark a major milestone in the administration’s drive toward environmental resilience and climate action.
