The Kano State government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has expressed willingness to partner with some professional organisations to plant three million trees across the state to fight desertification.
This was disclosed at a press conference on Friday by the project coordinator, Agro-Climatic Resilience In Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Dr. Dahiru Hashim.
Hashim explained that professional bodies that include NLC, NUJ, NURTW, NULGE, among others, have since been contacted on the initiative.
“The 3MTP is not just a government initiative; it’s a call to action for every Kano resident.
“We will be extending partnerships to prestigious organisations like NLC, NULGE, NUJ, RATTAWU, NURTW, NUT, and a host of others to ensure that we reach every segment of the society.
“Our goal is for every concerned citizen, civil servant, farmer, teacher, journalist, and student to participate in this campaign for a greener and more resilient Kano,” he said.
Hashim explained that the State government had since commenced the planting of one million trees in some communities within the Kano metropolis where trees of economic value were strategically planted.
“For this initiative, one million seedlings will be used for avenue planting and distribution to our local communities, tertiary institutions, MDAs, and public organisations to make it community-based, community-driven, and community-led.
“This will ensure widespread participation and empower residents to green and own their neighborhoods.
“We will have designated distribution centers and will liaise with the 44 local governments across the state for the successful implementation of this
activity.
“The avenue planting which was flagged off by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has already lightened the crusade as the State Road in Kano was
completed, so also Ahmadu Bello Way, Sabo Bakin Zuwo, Aminu Kano Way, and is currently ongoing at BUK Road, Kano.
“This will see about 5,000 seedlings being planted along 10 major roads in Kano, which include Hadejia Road, Audu Bako Way, Airport Road, Sharada, Jaen and some parts of Katsina Road.
“These trees that are so strategically placed will improve cooling, promote air quality, provide shade, and beautify the city,” he explained.
He further explained that the ACReSAL was working with the State’s Ministry of Justice to enhance laws that will regulate cutting down of trees in the state.
“ACReSAL understands that planting trees is just the first step. We will diligently monitor and evaluate the program’s progress to ensure the survival of these trees.
“We’re also working with the Kano State Ministry of Justice to help sponsor Bills to the State House of Assembly on law review and enforcement particularly on indiscriminate cutting down of trees and by extension the review of existing environmental laws.
“Penalties for stealing or destroying them will be strictly enforced,” Hashim added.