The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Oladimeji Ola Oresanya, has commended the Ogun State Chapter of the Nigeria Youth Organisation (NYO) for organising a tree planting exercise and free medical outreach to mark the 2026 International Youth Day.

The Commissioner, who was represented by Mr. Kayode Akinwade at the event held on Wednesday in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, opposite the council secretariat, said the initiative demonstrated the NYO’s commitment to environmental protection and the wellbeing of young people in the state.

According to him, the tree planting exercise was a practical step towards protecting the environment and tackling climate change, while the medical outreach would encourage young people to pay greater attention to their health and wellbeing.

Speaking at the event, the NYO Ogun State Chairman, Hon. Comrade Saka Olanrewaju, said the celebration provided an opportunity for young people to demonstrate that they were not only leaders of tomorrow but also leaders making meaningful contributions today.

Olanrewaju said the programme, organised under the theme, “Green Future, Healthy Youths: Plant For Life,” was designed to promote environmental sustainability and healthy living among young people.

He explained that the tree planting exercise was aimed at contributing to a greener and healthier environment, while the free medical outreach was organised to promote healthy living and encourage youths to take their health seriously.

The NYO Chairman appreciated the Ogun State Government, particularly the Ministry of Environment, for its support and encouragement towards the success of the programme.

He also appreciated Mr. Kayode Akinwade for representing the Commissioner, as well as personnel of the Ogun State Waste Management Agency (OGWAMA), the Director of Water Supply and Environmental Sanitation, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, officers and men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and members of the Kick Against Dirtiness in Ogun State (KADO) Corps.

Olanrewaju further appreciated the NYO medical team, led by Comrade Michael of God Will Medical and Comrade Kifayat, Director of NYO Health Matters, for providing the free medical outreach and health sensitisation.

He also thanked the newly installed Patron of NYO for his presence and support, alongside TAAG Media, The Voice of Progress and other media partners for their coverage of the event.

The NYO Chairman commended the planning committee, led by Comrade Oluwatosin Adebayo, for its dedication and teamwork. He also recognised the contributions of Comrade Lamidi Olalekan, Comrade Alani Kehinde, Comrade Ojogbon Edet, Comrade Abdul Kafilat, Comrade Hammed Rotham, Comrade Abdullahi Edun and NYO executives across the three senatorial districts of the state.

He noted that tree planting went beyond simply planting trees, describing it as a shared responsibility to protect the environment, combat climate change and create a healthier future for the younger generation.

The NYO Ogun State Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives that promote youth development, environmental sustainability, healthy living and the active participation of young people in the development of Ogun State.