The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, Owoade 1, has stressed the importance and benefits of planting trees in communities, saying that “in a world grappling with environmental challenges, reforestation stands out as a powerful solution that offers numerous benefits”.
The monarch who was represented by his wife, Ayaba Abiwunmi Owoade, said this on Wednesday while planting a tree within the Alaafin’s Palace, Oyo, in commemoration of the 130 years memorialization of the “Ogun Pepe” (Pepe War), where in 1895, the people of Oyo led by the then Alaafin Adeyemi Alowolodu, resisted a British invasion and domination.
The occasion was part of the one-week programme organized by a committee, led by Dr. James Adesokan Ojebode (founder of the Atiba University, Oyo). Other members include: the retired Archbishop of the Methodist Church, Nigeria, Prince Ayo Ladigbolu; Professor Sunday Olawale Okeniyi (Vice Chancellor, Atiba University); Princess Folasade Adeyemi (a.k.a. Arewa), Mr. Segun Oke, Hon. Wale Ogunsola, Gbemisola Faleti, among others.
At the tree planting event were many other dignitaries including the Eekarun of Oyo, Engr. Adedayo Taiwo, traditional High Chiefs and sons and daughters of Oyo Town.
The monarch who spoke through his Ayaba, said that “planting trees in areas that have been deforested or devoid of forests can unlock a range of positive effects. From combating climate change to fostering biodiversity, reforestation holds the key to a healthier planet and thriving communities.
“Trees, she said, are champions in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through the process of photosynthesis—that’s why forests are called carbon sinks. Trees absorb approximately 30% of global emissions every year and when we burn them or cut them down, all of that pollution gets released into the air. Trees provide housing to millions of species that protect us from disease. It is estimated that nearly 50 percent of Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity resides in rain forests.
“Trees cool the Earth by blocking sunlight and providing shade. In fact, air temperature under trees can be up to 25°F cooler than surrounding air. The natural shade that canopies provide can also reduce energy use for indoor cooling and heating. Planting trees around your house can reduce solar heat gain from windows and roofs, thus reducing costs for air conditioning.
“To combat the heating effects of concrete in cities, studies suggest canopy coverage of 40 percent or higher on city blocks in order to generate the greatest cooling effect. With over half of the world’s population living in cities — notoriously hotter because of concrete, poorer air quality, limited shade and green space, buildings — we must try all we can to beat the heat”, she stressed.
She noted that in an era of increasing air pollution, trees emerge as nature’s air purifiers, as they absorb harmful pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, ozone, and particulate matter, thereby improving air quality, and through photosynthesis, trees also release oxygen, which is vital for our wellbeing.
Other dignitaries supported the Ayaba, noting that the tree planted symbolizes the resilience of Oba Alowolodu and his subjects, a celebration which promotes unity, community pride and cultural tourism, thereby contributing to the social and economic vitality of Oyo”.
