Agency Declares Governor Zulum Environmental Champion In Borno State

The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) has honored Governor Babagana Umar Zulum as an environmental champion, recognizing his administration’s significant achievements in addressing environmental issues.

The Director-General and CEO of the NAGGW, Saleh Abubakar, represented by the Director of Planning and Policy Coordination, Hajiya Habiba Usman, made this announcement during the launch of Borno’s 2024 tree-planting exercise. The event, held on Tuesday in Kawuri, Konduga Local Government Area, marked the beginning of Nigeria’s largest tree-planting campaign, introducing 10 million assorted seedlings to combat desertification in the state.

“The agency is delighted to acknowledge that Borno is the first state in the country to domesticate the GGW Act by establishing a state agency and appointing the pioneer Director-General,” Abubakar stated.

He added, “The NAGGW is pleased to participate in the tree-planting campaign, as it not only complements the agency’s interventions but also demonstrates the Borno State Government’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges related to land degradation and climate change.”

He further expressed hope that other states would follow suit, emphasizing that tree planting would not only mitigate climate change but also improve air quality, soil, and water conservation locally and nationwide.

In his remarks, Governor Zulum welcomed all dignitaries and highlighted that his administration had implemented several strategies beyond tree planting to reduce carbon emissions.

He said, “these efforts include the acquisition of electric vehicles and gas cylinders for distribution to deserving communities. He also noted the creation of an agency for the Great Green Wall to tackle desertification and preserve the ecosystem”.

Zulum reassured attendees of his administration’s dedication to safeguarding Borno’s deteriorating environment, which he noted had caused reduced rainfall.

The governor issued a stern warning against the felling of trees in Borno, directing the Secretary to the State Government to collaborate with the State House of Assembly to develop measures to strengthen existing environmental laws.