Date: 2018-08-24

The Kwara Ministry of Environment and Forestry in collaboration with Faith Charcoal Dealers and Marketers have planted 2000 seedlings of trees in a bid to enhance reforestation in the state. The tree planting took place at Korowa forest reserve Oke-Oyi in Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The state Commissioner for Environment and Forestry, Engr Amos Justus sayo while speaking at the tree planting program at Korowa forest reserve pointed out that the present method of charcoal production and lack of standard has negatively impacted the dwindling natural forest of the state.

Engr Sayo added that the bill signed into law to ban charcoal production in the state was aimed at helping to preserve the natural resources and engender sustainable utilization.

The commissioner noted that the event would further complement the reforestation effort of Kwara state Government and encourage other stakeholder to embark on tree planting for a better tomorrow.

Also, the Director, Forestry, Alhaji Idirs Babatunde while giving his welcome remarks, commended the Faith Charcoal Association for their effort towards reforestation.

The chairman of Faith Charcoal Dealers and Marketers Association, Pastor Ayeni during the program appealed to the state government to help in standardizing charcoal business.

He equally pledged the association's cooperation in sustaining the forest cover in the state The President Kwara state Artisan Congress, Alhaji Saadu Alawaye imlpored the state government to give them more grace as production of charcoal is their means of livelihood.