By Faridat Salifu
Taraba State Government and the Nigerian Army has collaborated to promote ecological balance, conserve biodiversity, and restore degraded lands in Taraba State and the broader North East region.
The Nigerian Army threw its support behind the Taraba State Government’s Greening Initiative in a significant step towards environmental sustainability.
The collaborative effort, spearheaded by the State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, was marked by a tree planting exercise in Jalingo, the state capital, on Saturday.
The event was led by the State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Hajiya Aisha Barde, and had the backing of the Nigerian Army, represented by Brigadier General KC Uwa, Commander of the 6 Brigade Headquarters.
Brigadier General Uwa, hosting the event at the Army Command, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the military and civilian populations in addressing environmental degradation.
He highlighted the necessity of strong partnerships to achieve the goals of sustaining the environment.
In her address, the Commissioner underscored Taraba government’s dedication to enhancing ecological balance and mitigating climate change.
She commended Brigadier General Uwa and his team for their unwavering support, noting that Nigeria is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 20% unconditionally and by 47% conditionally with international support by 2030, as part of its Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement.
She highlighted the economic benefits of the initiative, stressing that it aims not only to improve the environment but also to provide sustainable economic opportunities for the community.
“The tree planting exercise is part of the state’s effort to increase land area covered by trees, curtail climate change impacts, and contribute to global efforts in mitigating climate change effects,” she said.
Hajiya Barde encouraged all dignitaries and local community members to actively participate in tree planting and ensure the survival of the trees.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Aminu Kotolo, remarked that the inclusion of military personnel in the initiative reflects a shared commitment to addressing environmental and climate change challenges.
He said the exercise is a proactive measure towards fostering a greener future.
The event underscored the importance of a united front in the fight against climate insecurity, demonstrating best practices both locally and internationally.
Also present at the tree planting ceremony is the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Dr. Tafarki Agbadu, who represented Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas at the occasion.
Other notable attendees included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, traditional rulers, military personnel, and community leaders.
The event also featured the presence of Alhaji Aminu, Chairman of Zing Local Government and the State ALGON Chairman, along with the Chief of Army Staff and senior officers of the Nigerian Army.