Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Sunday launched the distribution of 5.5 million tree seedlings as part of an ambitious initiative to tackle desert encroachment and promote environmental sustainability across the state.
The flag-off ceremony took place at the historic Yanbawa Shelter Belt in Makoda Local Government Area, a green barrier established in 1972 by former military governor, Audu Bako. Speaking at the event, Governor Yusuf lamented the recent neglect of such vital environmental defences but expressed optimism about their revival under his administration.
“We have gathered here today at the historical Yanbawa Shelter Belt, one of Kano’s strongest and oldest defences against desertification. Unfortunately, in recent years, these shelter belts and tree nurseries were neglected,” Yusuf said.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the 5.5 million seedlings will be distributed across all 44 local government areas, with allocations also going to schools, religious institutions, communities, and key public areas.
The governor revealed that two major nurseries—located in Mai Nikka (Gwarzo LGA) and Kafinciri (Garko LGA)—have been rehabilitated to support this year’s planting season. He also directed local government chairmen to establish Tree Planting Committees within their Agriculture Departments and ensure tree planting extends to schools, religious centres, and along major roads.
Highlighting the broader environmental goals of his administration, Governor Yusuf said more than 250,000 hectares of land have already been reclaimed under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) programme.
“We are committed to building a resilient ecosystem for future generations,” he stated, while appreciating partners and stakeholders for their ongoing support.
Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, who also spoke at the event, described the initiative as vital not only for Kano but also for neighbouring states such as Kaduna. “Islam encourages tree planting, and those who do so are rewarded even after death,” he remarked.
Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, disclosed that all 5.5 million seedlings distributed this year were locally grown—a major increase from last year’s 3 million.
Local government chairmen from Dambatta and Makoda, Hon. Jamilu Dambatta and Hon. Auwal Isa Jibga, respectively, pledged full support for the initiative.
As part of the event, the governor honoured two prominent environmental advocates—Engr. Muntari Sulaiman and Dr. Abdulhamid Bala Sarauniya—for their outstanding contributions to environmental conservation in Kano State.
