The Kano State Government is updating and reviewing its forestry law to align with modern standards.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Mustapha Mohammed, made this known in Kano on Thursday during the opening of the review meeting.

He said the review would strengthen environmental protection and promote sustainable forest management and address issues such as deforestation, adding that “the existing law is outdated and doesn’t address current environmental challenges.”

He stated that the revised legislation was expected to reflect current global practices, particularly in safeguarding natural resources and addressing the growing threat of deforestation.

Director of Ecology and Forestry in the ministry, Mohammad Auwal, described the review as timely and necessary, stressing that it would enhance the state’s capacity to tackle environmental degradation.

Mr Auwal said the new law would provide a stronger legal framework for prosecuting individuals involved in unauthorised tree felling, which he identified as a major contributor to environmental decline in Kano State.

A retired director from the Ministry of Justice, Salisu Marmara  expressed optimism that involving experienced professionals would ensure the emergence of a robust legal framework.

He added that the reviewed law would be forwarded to the Kano State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and approval once it is finalised.

(NAN)