Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda has inaugurated the Katsina State ACReSAL 2023 tree planting campaign at Yusuf Bala Usman College Daura to combat desertification and tackle pressing environmental concerns, Zaharadeen Sani, Communication Officer for Katsina ACReSAL, disclosed this at the weekend, in a statement.
During the ceremony, Governor Dikko Umar Radda issued a stern warning against illegal tree cutting, emphasizing the adverse effects of such actions on deforestation, erosion, flooding, and the overall well-being of both residents and their properties.
He highlighted the detrimental consequences of indiscriminate tree felling without replacement, citing the emergence of drought and other environmental challenges.
Governor Radda reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection and the fight against irresponsible climate change practices.
He stressed the interconnectedness of humanity within the ecosystem, underscoring the pivotal role of tree planting in achieving sustainable development.
The governor called upon the college community to unite in the battle for environmental preservation and the reclamation of lost natural landscapes.
He pledged enhanced governmental support for the success of the ACReSAL Project in the state.
Governor Radda expressed optimism in the ability of the Katsina ACReSAL State Project Management Unit to achieve its targeted objectives.
The event also witnessed the Katsina State Commissioner of Environment, Alhaji Musa Adamu Funtua, highlighting the state government’s substantial efforts in realizing the ACReSAL Project, including a substantial financial commitment of one billion naira.
He stressed the pivotal role of tree planting in securing future generations and mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change.
Furthermore, the commissioner revealed that the Katsina ACReSAL 2023 tree planting initiative would commence with selected higher education institutions in the state, covering approximately ten thousand tree seedlings.
He underscored the broader distribution of seedlings to communities, institutions, schools, and public places.
Alhaji Musa Adamu Funtua emphasized the state government’s priority in addressing various environmental challenges, including biodiversity conservation, land restoration, climate change mitigation, and desertification control.
He urged the institution to play an active role in educating students and stakeholders about the significance of tree planting.
The commissioner noted that the initiative aimed to reduce soil erosion, combat climate change, and enhance biodiversity while countering the negative impacts of human activities like bush burning and illegal tree felling on the fragile ecosystem.
Additionally, Alhaji Musa Adamu Funtua highlighted the role of trees as carbon sinks, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
The Katsina State ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Alhaji Halliru Mohammed, outlined an ambitious target of planting one million trees across the state, with each local government area and the state capital contributing to this goal.
The ACReSAL Project also aimed to restore one million hectares of land.
Alhaji Halliru Mohammed expressed gratitude to the state government for its support, acknowledging the positive impact it would have on the project’s implementation.
The Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Faruk Umar, commended the Katsina ACReSAL initiative for its efforts in combating desertification and encouraged residents to embrace tree planting to combat climate change.
The event included symbolic tree planting by key dignitaries and public awareness activities highlighting the importance of preserving trees and their environment.