Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, on Thursday flagged off the plantation of one million trees in the state.

Speaking during the ceremony tagged ‘2025 annual tree planting campaign’ in the Dass Local Government of the state, Mr Mohammed said that the trees contained both the indigenous and fruit-bearing trees.

He said the trees would be planted across all the 20 local government areas of the state.

According to him, the forests in the state were under siege, saying that uncontrolled deforestation, illegal logging, bush burning and overgrazing had left most of the lands barren.

He said, “In response, tree planting must become a must movement, a people’s revolution to reclaim their land, restore their dignity and integrity and create a new hope within our environment.

“Trees are not just nature’s ornaments; they are life-sustaining assets. They absorb carbon dioxide, improve soil fertility, recharge groundwater, and provide timber, among other things. This year, we are targeting the planting of 1 million trees across all the 20 local government areas, ranging from indigenous species to economic and other fruit trees such as mango, guava, cashew and oranges. These trees will not only green our environment but also generate income for farmers, improve food and security, and create jobs, especially for our youths and women.’’

Mr Mohammed stated that the seedlings would be provided to households, schools and farmers, and the government would engage extension workers to support community restoration efforts to monitor survival rates.

The governor said that the gesture was imperative, as every tree planted was a shield against poverty, hunger, and displacement and a reward from God after death.

“Every nurtured tree is an investment in our collective prosperity. I, therefore, call upon all the local government chairmen to work with their counsellors to make sure that this gesture is replicated in their wards,” said the governor.

Earlier, the state Commissioner for Housing and Environment, Danlami Kaule, said the theme of the 2025 annual tree planting campaign is “Plant a tree for a better tomorrow.”

He expressed the ministry’s commitment to promoting sustainable environmental practices and urban development.

Mr Kaule stated, “Our goal is to restore and enhance biodiversity and create greener communities that support both humans and ecological well-being.’’ 

(NAN)