News
FG Asks Nigerians to Cultivate Tree Planting to Fight Sand and Dust Storms
FG Asks Nigerians to Cultivate Tree Planting to Fight Sand and Dust Storms
By: Michael Mike
The federal government has reiterated the importance of planting and nurturing trees that will provide vegetation cover and protect farmlands from the encroachment of desert especially in the northeastern part of the country.
Speaking during the celebration of the international Sand and Dust Storm Day in Abuja which is always celebrated on July 12. the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako said the day was set aside by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms (SDS).
He said, Sand and Dust Storms (SDS) are atmospheric phenomena that occur mostly in the dry lands but its impacts are witnessed beyond dry lands due to long-range transportation of sand and dust mostly originating from arid, semi-arid and dry sub humid areas.
The purpose of proclaiming 12th July as the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms by the United Nations General Assembly according to him, includes to raise awareness on the catastrophic effects of Sand and Dust Storms as well as it’s causes, impacts and preventive measures;
to sensitize policy and decision makers on the causes and socio- economic impacts of Sand and Dust Storms.
Also to advocate at the International, National and Regional levels on the need to share knowledge, best practices and measures to mitigate the sources and impacts of SDS to strengthen observation, forecast and adaptive capacities of the countries to cope with the adverse effects of SDS.
The Minister added that: “Globally, afforestation and reforestation has been considered as the easiest and cheapest methods to restore the ecosystem, protect our biodiversity as well as, reduce the impact of climate change.
He explained that: “The absence of forests/trees leads to loss of vegetation cover and extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves and droughts, it is also a major factor that allows movement of sand particles across areas with less or no vegetation cover otherwise known as SDS.”
Salako while addressing the press, said: “This phenomenon occurs when strong turbulent winds blow over unconsolidated dry grained sand transporting it to where vegetation covers are sparse or absent.
“The origin where this sand and dust storm originates from are devoid of vegetation such as the Sahara desert.”
He said that to combat SDS, I must emphatically state the importance of planting and nurturing tress that will provide vegetation cover and protect farmlands from the encroachment of desert especially in the northeastern part of Nigeria. The existence of forests across the country is very crucial to the campaign against SDS.
He noted that, SDS usually result in the removal of fertile topsoil which is a major cause of loss of farmland and crops thereby threatening the sustainability of food production.
He stated that the Federal Ministry of Environment and the UNCCD carried out an SDS Risk Reduction Project aimed at enhancing knowledge and developing predictive modelling about SDS risk
He noted that: “Even though Nigeria is not a source country for SDS, it is one of the frontline countries whose close proximity to the Sahara makes it vulnerable to SDS activities.
SDS occurs with intensity in the months of November to February which is locally known as Harmattan period. Dust particles are transported regularly from dust sources across the country towards the Atlantic Ocean during the dry season.
FG Asks Nigerians to Cultivate Tree Planting to Fight Sand and Dust Storms
News
Concerned Citizens of Northeast Felicitates with Christians on Christmas Celebration
Concerned Citizens of Northeast Felicitates with Christians on Christmas Celebration
…Urges Sustained Prayers for Peace, Prosperity, Well-being of Region and Nigeria
By: Our Reporter
The Concerned Citizens of Northeast has felicitated with Christians in the State and across the world as they celebrate this year’s Christmas.
CCNE called on the Christian faithful and all citizens of Northeast States to embrace the core values of Christmas which connote love, peace, reconciliation, and selflessness, while reflecting on its deeper spiritual significance.
“As we mark this joyous occasion, we urge everyone to emulate the virtues of love, sacrifice, and compassion demonstrated by Jesus Christ. Let us use this period to promote unity, understanding, and cooperation among ourselves, which are essential for building a harmonious and progressive society.
They encouraged the people of the region to sustain the bonds of brotherhood and communal support, emphasizing the need for continued peace and stability in the state.
The Concerned Citizens of Northeast further called for prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the nation, especially during these challenging economic times.
“While these times are undeniably tough, we encourage everyone not to lose hope but to stay optimistic and committed to the vision of a better Nigeria. Together, we can overcome our challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.
Concerned Citizens of Northeast Felicitates with Christians on Christmas Celebration
News
Tsafe community breathing sigh of relief following Killing of Notorious Bandit “Al’jan” by Nigerian troops
Tsafe community breathing sigh of relief following Killing of Notorious Bandit “Al’jan” by Nigerian troops
By Zagazola Makama
Residents of Tsafe Local Government Area in Zamfara State are breathing a sigh of relief following the neutralization of a notorious bandit known as “Al’jan,” who had long terrorized the community.
Originally from Niger Republic, “Al’jan,” whose real name remains undisclosed, settled in Tsafe LGA after working as a motorcycle taxi operator. This job connected him with Fulani herders, leading him down a path of criminality.
Over time, he forged alliances with a bandit group led by Hassan Bamamu, becoming deeply entrenched in acts of banditry and terror throughout the region.
Utilizing his extensive knowledge of Tsafe and its surroundings, “Al’jan” acted as a guide for criminal gangs, orchestrating numerous raids and kidnappings.
He was implicated in several high profile killings, including those of Anas Umar Dan Kanti, Alhaji Musa Ille, and an unnamed Navy officer.
The reign of terror that “Al’jan” inflicted on the community came to an end three weeks ago when security forces successfully neutralized him and several of his associates during a joint operation between Mada and Yandoton Daji in Tsafe LGA.
This operation involved a coordinated effort by soldiers and local vigilantes, who ambushed the gang as they traversed the area.
The elimination of “Al’jan” has brought newfound hope to the people of Tsafe, particularly those residing along the Tsafe-Gusau road, which had suffered from frequent attacks. Residents of Bamamu village, his last known hideout, confirmed his death after viewing his remains.
Tsafe community breathing sigh of relief following Killing of Notorious Bandit “Al’jan” by Nigerian troops
News
Zulum Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians, Vows to Steer Borno Towards Recovery
Zulum Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians, Vows to Steer Borno Towards Recovery
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has felicitated with the Christian community in the state on the occasion of Christmas, urging unity and support for his administration’s development efforts.
In a message delivered through his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving the state’s goals outlined in the 10-Pact Agenda, 25-Year Development Plan, and 10-Year Strategic Initiatives.
Zulum called on Christians to use the spirit of the season to promote love, forgiveness and good neighbourliness.
“On behalf of the Borno State government, I extend warm greetings to my Christian brothers and sisters on this joyous occasion,” Governor Zulum stated. “I pray for a peaceful and prosperous celebration, and encourage all citizens to use this season to support the less privileged, fostering stronger relationships across all communities.”
Governor Zulum highlighted that his administration will prioritize post-conflict and post-flood recovery to improve the living standards of the people.
He reaffirmed his commitment to providing quality leadership and driving positive change to ensure sustainable growth for the State.
“The task of rebuilding Borno is a collective one,” he continued. “I am dedicated to leading efforts that will transform the state and elevate its citizens to path of prosperity.”
In response to the challenges posed by the removal of fuel subsidy and the ongoing economic difficulties, Governor Zulum’s administration is providing crucial support to vulnerable populations.
This includes the introduction of a mass transport system, distribution of relief items to over 35,000 returnee households, and enrollment of over 94,000 vulnerable individuals into a free healthcare program.
The Governor also expressed his appreciation for the Christian community in maintaining peace and unity throughout the state.
“I sincerely thank the people of Borno for their continued support over the past five and a half years,” Governor Zulum added. “I assure you that my administration remains steadfast in its commitment to securing lives, restoring livelihoods, and revitalizing the state’s economy.”
Zulum enjoins all citizens to be law abiding throughout the festive period and beyond as government is doing everything possible to ensure sustainable peace in Borno State.
Zulum Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians, Vows to Steer Borno Towards Recovery
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