The Jigawa state government is planting 5.5 million trees as part of the state's efforts to combat desertification, deforestation, and environmental degradation.
Governor Mallam Umar Namadi made this revelation during the official launch of the 2024 Tree Planting Campaign and the seedling distribution event, which took place in Andaza Town, Kiyawa Local Government area of the state.
In his speech, Governor Namadi emphasized the importance of tree planting in addressing the adverse effects of human interference with the natural environment, highlighting the negative consequences of desertification and the loss of forest reserves on environmental sustainability and livelihoods. He urged all citizens to take responsibility for protecting the environment and promoting eco-friendly initiatives.
"Protecting the environment has prominently featured as a key priority in our 12-Point Agenda," Governor Namad said. "Our commitment to conservation and sustainable utilization of natural resources is evident through our afforestation and reforestation programs, as well as the enforcement of environmental protection legislation."
He said over the past year, the Jigawa State Government has constructed approximately 20 kilometres of drainage systems and reclaimed 72 kilometres of eroded areas across various localities and more.
"As part of our efforts to safeguard the environment, we have constructed approximately 20 kilometres of drainages and reclaimed 72 kilometres of eroded areas in several affected villages and towns across the 27 local government areas of the state in the last year." We have completed most of these and are nearing completion on a few others. In areas of flood mitigation, we have desilted 72 kilometres along the Hadejia River Channel from Gagiya in Guri Local Government to Wacakal in Yobe State.”
Governor Namadi reiterated his commitment to expanding ongoing environmental programs, including the production of 2.5 million tree seedlings annually. He expressed delight that this year's campaign exceeded expectations with the production and distribution of over 5.5 million assorted seedlings, a first in Jigawa State's history.
“One of the commitments I made to the people of Jigawa State during my inauguration as Governor of Jigawa State was to reinvigorate and expand ongoing programs, including the production of 2.5 million tree seedlings annually for distribution to the citizens, public sensitization on tree planting, deforestation, and general environmental protection.”
The Governor commended the Ministry of Environment, local community-based organizations, and private nurseries for their collaboration in achieving this unprecedented feat. He directed all local governments to assist communities in maintaining the seedlings, and he urged the Ministry of Environment to reinvigorate its Afforestation Monitoring Committee to ensure effective planting and maintenance.
"The people who collect these tree seedlings must take responsibility for their maintenance, protection, and survival. Even if only 90% of the 5 million seedlings survive, it will result in 4.5 million new trees, significantly impacting our environment positively."
Governor Namadi also expressed gratitude to the World Bank-Assisted ACreSAL Project and the Great Green Wall (GGW) Project for their support in building environmental resilience and enhancing the state's greenery.
Hamisu Mohammed Gumel
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Jigawa State
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