As part of the efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change within the Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi State, the Emir of Dass, Alhaji Usman Bilyaminu Othman II, has urged residents to refrain from indiscriminate tree felling.
The emir made the call after a symbolic tree planting exercise in commemoration of the 2024 Great Green Wall Day, held at the Dass Emirate Council in Bauchi State.
Speaking at the event, the emir emphasised the importance of his community’s ongoing contributions to combating desertification and other environmental challenges.
Bilyaminu Othman II expressed concern over tree felling for charcoal production, which poses significant environmental threats.
His words: “Protecting the environment is part of our role. We continue to urge our people to plant trees and stop felling them as a means to protect our environment against desert encroachment.
“It is essential for the leaders of our communities to ensure that everyone is committed to planting and nurturing trees to curtail deforestation.”
In her remarks, the state’s Great Green Wall focal person, Hajiya Hadiza Mohammed, expressed concern about the indiscriminate felling of trees without replacement.
She called on all benefiting communities to minimise charcoal use.
According to her, to reduce the risks associated with charcoal use, the agency introduced CNG cooking gas cylinders for domestic use, aligning with the Federal Government’s efforts to promote safer and alternative cooking methods.
Arogidigba Global Journal reports that the 2024 Great Green Wall celebration included planting improved economic trees across various ministries, departments, and agencies of the Bauchi State government, as well as religious and traditional institutions.