By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
In commemoration of the World Desertification and Drought Day, students of Environmental Health from the Jigawa State Polytechnic have launched a tree-planting and public awareness campaign at Sha’iskawa area in Dutse metropolis.
The initiative, organised by the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency (JISEPA) with support from UNICEF, aims to combat desertification, control erosion, and promote environmental sustainability across the state.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of JISEPA, Mr. Adamu Sabo, said the campaign is designed to remind and encourage the public on the importance of tree planting and active participation in environmental protection.
“As you can see today, students from the polytechnic, supported by hundreds of youth, our agency, and UNICEF, have come out to plant trees and raise awareness about the dangers of deforestation and environmental pollution,” Sabo stated.
He explained that the goal of the campaign is to plant trees along a 15-kilometre stretch of newly constructed roads in Dutse, to replace those removed during construction, provide shade, and help control erosion.
“The plan is to eventually cover all roadside areas within the state capital and expand to other parts of Jigawa. We are starting today with 500 trees, each with protective guards, and the campaign will continue until we reach our target,” he added.
Sabo emphasized that Jigawa is among the states most affected by desertification and drought. He noted that consistent tree planting and environmental awareness can significantly mitigate these challenges.
He concluded by calling on the people of Jigawa, especially the youth, to support Governor Malam Umar Namadi’s vision of a greener and more environmentally resilient state.
Good effort