Esther Salifu
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has restated the Federal Government’s resolve to collaborate with traditional institutions in promoting environmental sustainability through tree planting and climate change initiatives. He made this known during a courtesy visit by the Emir of Nguru, HRH Mustafa Ibn Kyari, to the Ministry in Abuja.
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, pledged that the Ministry would supply 100,000 tree seedlings to support the Nguru Emirate Council’s target of planting 50,000 trees in 2025.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with broader environmental goals, noting that other key areas of focus include the restoration of the Nguru watershed, Hadejia-Jamare River Basin, and the Lake Chad Basin.
Commending the Emir of Nguru, HRH Mustafa Ibn Kyari, for his environmental advocacy, the Minister described him as “a true environmentalist dedicated to sustainable development.”
“Our support to the Emirate is unwavering,” Lawal said. “This partnership reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes environmental restoration and climate resilience.”
During the visit, the Emir of Nguru, His Royal Highness Mustafa Ibn Kyari, praised Minister Balarabe Abbas Lawal for his swift response to pressing environmental issues affecting the Nguru Emirate.
He acknowledged the positive impact of ongoing interventions by agencies under the Ministry, such as the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), and the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP).
“The Minister’s prompt attention to our ecological concerns has not gone unnoticed,”
“We are seeing real efforts that give our people renewed hope.” Emir stated
The Emir was joined by the Chairman of the Forest Farmers Cooperative Society, Abba Liman, who highlighted the group’s focus on agroforestry, climate-smart agriculture, livestock development, and youth and women empowerment.
Liman emphasized the significance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals, especially in securing access to agricultural financing.
Liman stated “The collaboration between the Emirate and the Ministry has opened new opportunities for environmental conservation and economic empowerment.”
Also speaking, the Director-General of NAGGW, Dr. Abubakar Sale, CON, applauded the Emirate Council for its proactive engagement. He stressed that the collaboration serves as a model for community-driven climate action.
The Presidential Committee on Nguru Ecological Intervention has already submitted its report to the Minister, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to addressing environmental degradation in the region.
