July 14, (THEWILL) – As part of efforts to curb deforestation, as well as promoting clean cooking methods among households in Sokoto State, the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), has planted 2,000 hectares of economy trees across the State.
The Director of Afforestation and Land Management of the agency, Isah Abubakar Saddiq, disclosed this while speaking to journalists during the planting of trees at Sultan Bello Secondary School, Sokoto, as part of activities to commemorate the 2024 Great Green Wall Day.
Saddiq said the move is part of the agency’s commitment to sustainable development and promoting afforestation in the state.
He also disclosed that the Agency is distributing clean cooking stoves to stakeholders, Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and Youth Voices Action to encourage the use of clean cooking methods using stoves and cylinders among households in Nigeria.
He added that the Green Wall initiative is aimed at providing environmentally friendly and efficient cooking solutions that reduce harmful emissions and promote better health outcomes.
“Directors and field officers in the frontline states of the Agency have reached out to various communities to ensure the effective distribution of these stoves.
“By engaging directly with the communities, we are not only providing immediate support but also fostering long-term partnerships for environmental sustainability,” Saddiq explained.
He noted that clean cooking solutions significantly reduce air pollution, which is a major health hazard in many African communities.
“By adopting cleaner cooking methods, we can prevent respiratory diseases, improve health outcomes, and enhance the quality of life for millions.”
The Director enlightened that clean cooking technologies, such as improved stoves and alternative fuels, help conserve forests and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.
Speaking further, Isah said adopting clean cooking solutions can drive economic growth and job opportunities.
“It can also reduce the time and effort spent on collecting firewood, allowing more time for education and income-generating activities, particularly for women and children.”
Tunde Omolehin is an award-winning Journalist with prose in investigative and storytelling that is connecting the dots between the under-reported communities and policymakers to ensure good governance and accountability.
