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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
Military EOD neutralizes improvised explosive device in Talata Mafara, Zamfara
By: Zagazola Makama
An improvised explosive device (IED) planted between Yar Danya and Maikwanugga villages in Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State has been safely neutralized by military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts.
Zagazola report that the operation, conducted on March 3 at about 2:00 p.m., followed the discovery of the device along a key village route. Security sources said the EOD team successfully detonated the IED, preventing potential harm to residents and commuters in the area.
Patrol and monitoring activities by the troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA and other security forces had since been intensified in the vicinity to ensure the safety of the local population and prevent further threats.
Military EOD neutralizes improvised explosive device in Talata Mafara, Zamfara
Troops rescue three abducted victims in Ajaokuta, Kogi State
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Army troops have successfully rescued three abducted persons following an attack by unknown gunmen along the Okwu Obanyi axis of Ajaokuta Local Government Area, Kogi State.
Zagazola report that the incident occurred on March 3 at about 6:00 a.m. when Abdulwahab Musa and Idowu Ibekunle, both of Opella, Edo State, were transporting farm produce to Anyigba, Kogi State.
According to sources, around 6:00 p.m., their vehicle, a maroon Toyota Previa with registration number MUE 689 AE, was blocked by armed assailants, who abducted four passengers into a nearby forest.
Troops, working with joint security forces, deployed to the area, conducted systematic bush combing and intelligence-led operations, resulting in the safe recovery of three victims – Fedelis Onza, Ayuba Fedelis, and Mrs. Joy Fidelis, all residents of Anyigba. One victim, Idowu Ebekule, remains unaccounted for.
The rescued victims have provided statements to security personnel, while operations continue to locate the remaining abductee and apprehend the perpetrators.
Monitoring and surveillance in the area have been intensified to prevent further incidents.
Troops rescue three abducted victims in Ajaokuta, Kogi State
NGO backs Tinubu’s climate awareness tour
Jewel Environmental Initiative (JEI), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has commended President Bola Tinubu for inaugurating the Renewed Hope Climate Change Awareness Tour, urging Nigerians and stakeholders to support the initiative nationwide.
Mr Ismail Bima, Chief Executive Officer of JEI, said in a statement on Thursday in Gombe that the tour would significantly strengthen public understanding of climate change and encourage collective environmental responsibility.
Bima described the initiative as a clear affirmation of the Federal Government’s commitment to pursuing practical solution driven strategies that addressed climate challenges and safeguarded livelihoods, ecosystems, and national development efforts.
He noted that the programme would achieve its objectives if government institutions, private organisations, civil society groups, and citizens actively played their respective roles in promoting awareness, resilience, and sustainable practices.
According to him, the inauguration marks an important step toward building a nationwide movement capable of delivering measurable progress in Nigeria’s broader efforts to secure a climate resilient future for generations.
He said JEI fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Climate Change Awareness Tour, noting that the initiative could inspire innovation, strengthen environmental education, and promote sustainable development across communities nationwide.
Bima also commended the Minister of Environment and urged federal, state, and local stakeholders to support the initiative, stressing that climate change impacts affected all citizens regardless of region or status.
He emphasised that growing climate pressures on agriculture, livelihoods, and ecosystems made the awareness tour timely, adding that stronger information sharing and partnerships were necessary to confront environmental risks nationwide.
He urged authorities to implement the initiative with sustained commitment, extend activities to grassroots communities, and collaborate with state and local governments to ensure wider participation and maximum impact nationwide effectively.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Tinubu inaugurated the Renewed Hope Climate Change Awareness Tour in Abuja on Tuesday to promote climate resilience and sustainable development nationwide initiatives.
NGO backs Tinubu’s climate awareness tour
Military EOD neutralizes improvised explosive device in Talata Mafara, Zamfara
Troops rescue three abducted victims in Ajaokuta, Kogi State
Troops of Operation Fansan Yanma neutralise three bandits in Katsina
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