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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
Bandits kill seven, abduct three in Sabon Birni border attack in Sokoto
By: Zagazola Makama
At least seven persons were killed and three others abducted when armed bandits attacked Kyara village, a remote border community in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, in the early hours of Thursday.
Sources said the attack occurred at about 4:00 a.m. in the village, which lies close to the Niger Republic border and has no mobile phone network coverage.
The bandits, who were said to be in large numbers and armed with sophisticated weapons, stormed the community, shooting sporadically and causing panic among residents.
During the attack, seven persons were shot dead, while two others sustained gunshot injuries. Three villagers were also kidnapped, and an unspecified number of domestic animals were rustled.
Joint security forces were immediately deployed to the area after the incident was reported. On arrival, they evacuated the corpses and the injured victims to a hospital for autopsy and medical treatment.
Troops have since launched a manhunt for the attackers with a view to rescuing the abducted victims, recovering the rustled livestock and arresting those responsible.
Confidence-building patrols are currently ongoing in and around Kyara village to reassure residents and prevent further attacks.
Bandits kill seven, abduct three in Sabon Birni border attack in Sokoto
Five injured in suspected IED blast on Bukuyum road in Zamfara
By: Zagazola Makama
Five persons have been seriously injured following a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) explosion along the Takalafiya–Gadar Zaima Road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 11:30 a.m. on Thursday when a motorcycle conveying five passengers ran into an explosive device believed to have been planted by armed bandits targeting security patrols in the area.
The device detonated on contact, causing a loud explosion that severely damaged the motorcycle and left all five occupants with serious injuries.
Following the incident, security operatives immediately closed the road to traffic and advised residents to stay away from the area pending a thorough safety assessment.
The injured victims were evacuated to the General Hospital, Gummi, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.
Movement along the Takalafiya–Gadar Zaima axis remains restricted as security agencies continue to monitor the situation and clear the area of any further threats.
Five injured in suspected IED blast on Bukuyum road in Zamfara
Three killed in fatal road accident at gaggaba village in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
At least three persons were killed in a fatal motor vehicle accident at Gaggaba Village, Fune Local Government Area of Borno State, early Wednesday morning.
Sources said the accident occurred around 1:20 a.m. when a Daf trailer with registration number DAL 964 YY, driven by Mal. Abubakar, 35, of Maiduguri, traveling from Lagos to Maiduguri, was involved in a collision with a Mitsubishi Canter truck, registration XA 437 NNR, driven by Salisu Ibrahim of Dirra Village, Fune LGA.
The Canter reportedly veered at full speed from its lane and rammed into the Daf trailer, causing the trailer driver and two passengers to fall unconscious. They were immediately rushed to General Hospital Damagum, where the driver and two passengers were pronounced dead by medical personnel.
Three killed in fatal road accident at gaggaba village in Borno
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One dead, four injured in communal clash in ngidoje village in Yobe
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