Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State announced that his administration has planted over four million trees in just four years. This initiative, known as “Gombe Goes Green (3G),” aims to restore degraded lands and promote environmental sustainability.
In a statement released on March 21, in conjunction with the International Day of Forests, Yahaya emphasized the importance of forests. He noted that his government focuses on combating environmental degradation while creating jobs for local residents. Trees have been planted in towns across the state, especially in areas hardest hit by land degradation.
“Through the 3G initiative, we’ve made significant strides in both afforestation and land restoration,” Yahaya said. The initiative not only enhances green spaces but also works to protect the state’s forest reserves from encroachment.
The governor formed a committee to evaluate the condition of grazing and forest reserves. This has led to a resurvey and remapping of gazetted areas, ensuring they are properly designated and protected. Measures are also being taken to rehabilitate the Kanawa Forest Reserve, including building facilities for better management.
Yahaya stressed that this work is critical for environmental protection and sustainable resource management. “As we observe the International Day of Forests, I urge everyone—stakeholders, traditional leaders, and citizens—to take care of our environment. We need to protect our forests, plant more trees, and embrace sustainable land practices.”
Forests are vital for a healthier planet. They help reduce climate change impacts, prevent desertification, and preserve biodiversity. The current theme for the International Day of Forests, “Forests and Food,” highlights their essential role in food security and overall well-being.
Recent studies support these claims, showing that forests can improve nutrition for many communities and contribute significantly to the economy. According to a 2023 report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), forests support 1.6 billion people worldwide, reinforcing their importance for livelihoods and ecosystems.
As governor, Yahaya’s commitment to these programs is essential not only for Gombe State but also for the global community facing environmental challenges. By prioritizing tree planting and forest conservation, Gombe aims to set an example for sustainable practices that can benefit current and future generations.
Check out this related article: Transforming Our Planet: A Groundbreaking New Book Reflects on 50 Years of Climate Change Advocacy – Insights from the Lutheran Alliance for Faith, Science, and Technology
Source linkGombe State,International Day of Forests (IDF),Tree Planting,World Forests Day
