By Chuks Oyema-Aziken (Baku, Azerbaijan)
The Niger State Government has indicated intention to plant one billion trees to tackle climate change.
This was disclosed on Saturday at the State’s side event at ongoing COP29 in Baku Azerbaijan.
The Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman said the state is building on its remarkable appearance at COP28 to put in place frameworks to move in green cycle.
He reaffirmed its commitment to driving a green economy, leveraging its abundant natural resources and strategic frameworks to position itself as a leader in Nigeria’s sustainability efforts
“And today, here we are again with the follow-up of what we were able to do in the last COP. Before coming to this COP, we made sure that we needed to do all we had to do,which had to do with the required framework. We had to put in place the required framework to enable us to move in the green cycle and that has attained traction and that is what you are seeing here.
Speaking on its participation in COP29, he said the team has met with different organizations with the aim of attracting investments to boost the green economy drive of the government.
“We are ready for collaboration. We are also discussing with other international agencies where we hope to go back home with some deals, of course, and that is quite visible.Like I said, we have come up with the necessary framework that will enable us to thrive in this cycle.
“We also have passed the necessary laws. We have appointed the necessary consultants, both local and international, and that is giving us edge over others and we are truly ready to go. And like you know, Agriculture is our main stay in Niger state and Nigeria at large and we are leveraging on that to make sure we truly drive the benefits of the green.
In his remarks, Mr. Yakubu Kolo, Commissioner of Environment and Climate change said the government has received the backing of the State house of Assembly in the green economy drive.
“The agency gives us the institutional backing to drive projects in areas like afforestation, waste management, and renewable energy. We want to be at the forefront of green solutions in Nigeria because we have the land and resources to make a significant impact,” Kolo stated.
Kolo added that agriculture remains the backbone of Niger State’s economy and will play a pivotal role in the green economy transition.
“Our participation in this year’s COP is to leverage the momentum we gained from COP28 and continue attracting global collaborations. Niger State is ready to lead in sustainability and green innovation,” he concluded.
Niger State’s active engagement at COP29 underscores its readiness to tackle climate change challenges and position itself as a model for green development in Nigeria.
