Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has said the federal government will engage retirees, women and youths in its tree-planting initiative.

Balarabe Lawal said the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to addressing the gap in tree planting as part of efforts to address issues of climate change.

Lawal stated this on Wednesday while speaking with the leadership of the Forestry Association of Nigeria, led by Dr. Afolabi Abiodun, in Abuja.

He explained that the federal government is worried about the activities of illegal felling of trees and hunting of animals in conservative areas.

He assured that the government would continue to collaborate with the Forestry Association of Nigeria and other stakeholders to healthy and secure environment in the country.

Lawal added that President Tinubu’s Green Initiative is focused on reforestation and improving Nigeria’s climate.

“The Ministry of Environment is always happy to receive ‘Friends of the Environment’ who are committed to sustainable endeavors that guarantee the health and safety of Nigeria’s environment.

“We will work with the Association in promoting wildlife conservation, preventing and containing illegal felling of trees as well as in the engagement of retirees, youths and women in our tree planting initiatives.

“I am grateful to the association for their support, particularly the diligent,” he said.