The historic town of Olokemeji provided a fitting backdrop for the celebration of the International Day of Forests 2026, themed “Forests and economies.” The event, held on 24 March, underscored the transformative impact of the Olokemeji Reforestation Project, a collaborative initiative between IITA Forest Center, Nigerian Breweries Plc, and the Ogun State Ministry of Forestry. Beyond commemorating forests, the gathering also aligned with World Water Day, reinforcing the intrinsic link between forest ecosystems and water security.
At the heart of the celebration is a bold restoration effort spanning over 600 hectares of degraded forest reserve. To date, 319 hectares have already been successfully reforested—equivalent to more than 455 football fields—using over 80 indigenous species, including economically valuable trees such as Parkia biglobosa (locust bean tree) and Treculia africana (ukwa). In total, more than 300,000 trees have been planted, signaling a significant stride toward ecological recovery and climate resilience.
Speaking at the event, the IITA Forest Center Field Supervisors, Olukunle Olasupo and Ademola Ajayi, emphasized the project’s far-reaching ecological and economic benefits. They highlighted how forest restoration strengthens watersheds, replenishes underground aquifers, and revives biodiversity, with encouraging signs already visible in the return of birdlife and other wildlife species. They also highlighted the project’s long-term potential to position Olokemeji as an ecotourism hub, attracting visitors seeking nature-based experiences.
IITA–CGIAR Deputy Director General, Corporate Services, Hilde Koper-Limbourg, described the Olokemeji Reforestation Project as a model for sustainable development. She noted that the project goes beyond tree planting, focusing equally on people-centered outcomes. Over 100 community members have already benefited from alternative livelihood opportunities, including beekeeping and other income-generating activities linked to forest conservation. “The impact is enormous,” she stated, adding that the project is placing Olokemeji on the global map as a leading example of community-driven environmental restoration.
A major highlight of the event was the commissioning of a borehole donated by Nigerian Breweries Plc, which provided the community with access to clean, potable water. The donation reflects the company’s broader commitment to water stewardship, particularly within water-stressed basins that support its operations. According to Danjuma John-Ekele, Corporate Affairs Manager (West and Mid-West), representing Corporate Affairs Director Dr Uzodinma Odenigbo, the project embodies the synergy between people, place, and progress. He emphasized the company’s long-term commitment to environmental sustainability, including support for initiatives that secure ecosystems for future generations. He added that scientifically, the reforested trees hold the potential to replenish over 300 million liters of water into the aquifer.
In his remarks, the Baale of Olokemeji, Fashola Jamiu, expressed deep appreciation to IITA and Nigerian Breweries for their sustained investment in the community. He acknowledged the social and economic transformation the project has brought and pledged continued community support to ensure its success.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Forestry, Engineer Taiwo Oludotun, represented by a ministry official, commended all partners for their role in restoring life to Olokemeji—reviving not only forests, but also livelihoods and biodiversity. He called for continued community support to facilitate the increasing success of the reforestation project.
As the celebration concluded, stakeholders reaffirmed their shared vision: to nurture a thriving forest ecosystem that delivers lasting environmental and economic benefits. With strong community participation and sustained partnerships, the Olokemeji Reforestation Project stands as a powerful testament to how restoring forests can also restore hope, resilience, and prosperity for generations to come.
Contributed by Folake Oduntan
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