News
FG Calls on Nigerians to Cultivate Bamboo Trees

FG Calls on Nigerians to Cultivate Bamboo Trees
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to embrace cultivation of bamboo trees in the country to combat climate change.
The called by the Federal Government came even as Chinese Government through the Chinese Chamber of Commerce said they it was poised to improve the usage of bamboo in Nigeria through the establishment of a bamboo industry in the country.
Speaking at the commemoration of the 2023 World Bamboo Day in Abuja with the theme “Environmental Restoration and Job Creation’’, the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal said in building on the outcomes of COP28 – Global Climate Summit – recently concluded in Dubai, UAE, the ministry is taking a significant steps toward a greener and more sustainable future for Nigerians.
He noted that one of the steps to be taken by the ministry is promoting bamboo cultivation and utilisation in the country.
The Minister explained that: “Not only does it (bamboo cultivation) contribute to the preservation of our environment, it also offers opportunities for economic growth and poverty alleviation.
“Its diverse applications in different sectors of the economy make it a valuable resource for job creation and income generation.”
He noted that the bamboo’s rapid growth, strength, and adaptability make it an ideal solution for sustainable development and resource management, stressing that: “Bamboo plays a crucial role in combating climate change. Its ability to sequester carbon dioxide and release oxygen surpasses that of many other plant species.
“As the whole world grapples with the menace of climate change and its attendant impacts, we are by this event, reminded of the immense potential this plant holds in addressing some of these pressing challenges.
“Bamboo, often referred to as the “green gold,” has been an integral part of our culture and heritage for centuries.”
He added that: “It has proven to be a true gift of nature considering its versatility and numerous environmental and economic benefits.”
The minister also said with shorter gestation period, bamboo boasts of shared and greater environmental and socio-economic potential including for construction and as industrial raw materials.
He added that: “Currently, the first bamboo processing factory is being established in Karara, Kogi state with the objective to bolster local content development in the production of bamboo toothpicks and other products in the short and long terms.”
Earlier, in an opening remark, the Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Lawrence Adigwe said that promoting bamboo cultivation will enhance biodiversity, adding that: “It is one of the fastest-growing plants on earth and capable of reaching maturity within a few years.
He noted that: “This is a feature that makes it an excellent tool in combating deforestation through reforestation and afforestation.
“Bamboo products is steadily increasing, providing opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation, particularly in rural areas where bamboo is abundantly available.”
The representative from Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Gene Zhang said they were poised to improve the usage of bamboo in Nigeria through the establishment of a bamboo industry in the country.
He said: “China can lend helping hands on how to set up bamboo industry in Nigeria.”
FG Calls on Nigerians to Cultivate Bamboo Trees
News
Two young farmers found dead in Taraba community

Two young farmers found dead in Taraba community
By: Zagazola Makama
Tension has gripped Bandawa-Kota community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State following the discovery of the lifeless bodies of two young men in a nearby bush.
Zagazola Makama report that the deceased, identified as Monday Samuel and Kawu Rabo, reportedly left their homes on Friday, June 27, to work on their farm but never returned.
Worried by their disappearance, family members and youths from the community launched a search on Saturday morning. Their bodies were eventually found in the bush, raising concerns of suspected foul play.
The incident has sparked outrage in the area, with residents calling for justice and demanding swift action to apprehend those behind the killings.
The corpses of the victims were recovered by the police and documented before being released to the families for burial, in accordance with local customs.
Efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest the culprits.
Two young farmers found dead in Taraba community
Crime
Troops repel armed herdsmen attack on farmers in Benue

Troops repel armed herdsmen attack on farmers in Benue
By: Zagazola Makama
Farmers and residents along the Daudu–Makurdi Expressway in Benue State were thrown into panic on Saturday following an attempted attack by armed herdsmen at Atson Village.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident, which occurred at about 3:18 p.m., led to chaos as people fled in different directions some towards Agan Toll Gate and others toward Gbajimba Road after reports emerged that armed herders were invading farms and destroying crops.
The sources said the attackers were heavily armed and had begun chasing farmers from their farmlands when security surveillance teams patrolling the area intervened.
On sighting the troops, the armed herdsmen reportedly fled into the bush.
Calm has since been restored to the affected area, and a joint patrol by security operatives is ongoing to ensure the safety of lives and property and to prevent a recurrence.
Troops repel armed herdsmen attack on farmers in Benue
News
Communal clash erupts between Gwer East and konshisha communities in Benue, several houses burnt

Communal clash erupts between Gwer East and konshisha communities in Benue, several houses burnt
By: Zagazola Makama
Tensions flared on Saturday between the Mbaiase community of Gwer East Local Government Area and residents of Igbinde Village in Konshisha LGA, Benue State, resulting in the burning of houses and destruction of property worth millions of naira.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident, which occurred at about 9:30 a.m., involved suspected militias from Mbaiase who reportedly launched an attack on Igbinde Village, part of the Mbagusa/Mbatser Council Ward of Konshisha LGA.
The sources said several thatched houses were set ablaze, and valuables were destroyed during the attack. However, no casualties were recorded.
Army troops of Operation Whirl Stroke with other security personnel were promptly deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further violence.
Stakeholders from both LGAs, including traditional leaders and local council chairmen, have been contacted in efforts to initiate dialogue and find a lasting solution to the long-standing communal tension.
Confidence-building patrols and monitoring operations are ongoing in the affected areas.
Communal clash erupts between Gwer East and konshisha communities in Benue, several houses burnt
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