From Desmond Mgboh Kano,
The National Agency for Great Green Wall (NAGGW) has recommitted itself to a Nigeria where prosperity and sustainability coexist with perfect humanity.
The Director General of the Agency, Yusuf Bukar, disclosed this during the occasion of the 2024 Great Green Wall Day, which was commemorated in Kano, yesterday.
Addressing stakeholders at the event in Kano, which had Community Based Organisations (CBOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Youth voices action in attendance, Dr. Bukar explained that this year’s theme: “Fuelling a greener future: Clean cooking for sustainable development,” was a clarion call to action.
He disclosed that his agency seized the initiative to distribute clean cooking stoves, as one of its proactive moves to provide environmentally friendly and efficient cooking solutions that reduce harmful emissions and promote better health outcomes.
“Directors and field officers in the frontline states of the Agency have reached out to various communities to ensure effective distribution of these stoves. By engaging directly with the communities, we are not only providing immediate support, but also fostering long-term partnerships for environmental sustainability. “By investing in clean cooking technologies, we not only reduce the burden on our natural resources and mitigate the impact of climate change, but we also create new economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for millions of people across the region. “By placing community engagement at the heart of its initiatives, the National Agency for the Great Green Wall aims to foster a sense of ownership, build local capacity, and ensure the long-term sustainability of its environmental restoration efforts
“Today, as we gather in this historic setting, let us renew our commitment to the Great Green Wall, and to the sustainable development of our communities. Let us work together, hand in hand, to fuel a greener future; one that is powered by clean cooking solutions, and nurtured by the very land we stand upon.
“Clean cooking solutions significantly reduce air pollution, which is a major health hazard in many African communities. By adopting cleaner cooking methods, we can prevent respiratory diseases, improve health outcomes, and enhance the quality of life for millions.
“Traditional cooking methods often rely on wood and charcoal, leading to deforestation and increased carbon emissions. Clean cooking technologies, such as improved stoves and alternative fuels, help conserve forests and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.
“The adoption of clean cooking solutions can drive economic growth and job opportunities. It can also reduce the time and effort spent on collecting firewood, allowing more time for education and income-generating activities, particularly for women and children.”
He maintained that his agency remained committed to what he called the vital task of transforming the nation’s landscape and empowering its communities.
“The Great Green Wall is more than just a physical barrier against the encroaching deserts; it is a symbol of our collective resilience, our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, and our unwavering belief in a future, where prosperity and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony.
“Today, we are thrilled to witness the planting of 400 seedlings, using the innovative Groasis box technology. This technology, which harnesses the power of nature to nurture and sustain young plants, is a testament to the ingenuity and forward-thinking approach that underpins our work.”
Beside the distribution of cooking stoves and tree planting, the NGGW has established one hectare of orchard plantations in Kano and Bauchi states to commemorate this year’s Great Green Wall Day.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, urged the people of the state to desist from felling trees, stating that there are presently a lot of available technologies to be used in lieu of cutting down trees to générale energy.
Represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Nasiru Sule Garo, the Governor cautioned that the issue of climate change was already with us, while urging the people to take steps to promote a healthy environment.
Daily Sun reports that clean cooking gas cylinders were gifted to widows of deceased military officers during the occasion.