Gov Buni champions five million tree drive to combat desertification

Gov Buni champions five million trees drive to combat desertification

By Hussaini Ibrahim

DAMATURU — Governor Mai Mala Buni has reinforced his administration’s reputation for visionary and people-centred leadership with the rollout of an ambitious five million tree-planting campaign under the Sahara Restoration Drive Project, Daily Hint reports.

The large-scale afforestation programme is strategically designed to reclaim degraded lands, shield vulnerable communities from desert encroachment and promote long-term environmental sustainability across key catchment areas in Yobe State.

In a significant boost, the initiative secured a Letter of No Objection from the Presidency through the National Council on Climate Change, the first approval of its kind granted to a state-led restoration project.

According to Daily Hint findings, the endorsement affirms the project’s strong alignment with national climate goals and highlights federal confidence in Governor Buni’s environmental roadmap.

Governor Buni described the initiative as a generational investment in the future of Yobe State.

“We are not just planting trees; we are planting hope, resilience and economic opportunity for our people. This project will protect our communities, secure our environment and strengthen livelihoods,” the governor said.

Daily Hint gathered that the governor has also signed an Executive Order to guarantee seamless implementation, enhance inter-agency collaboration and establish monitoring mechanisms to ensure the survival of the five million seedlings.

The directive is expected to fast-track nursery preparation and coordinate agencies toward measurable outcomes.

Speaking after a meeting with the governor, the Project Coordinator, Muhammad Musa, praised Buni’s proactive leadership.

“This is a bold and transformative step. His Excellency’s commitment demonstrates foresight and determination to confront desertification head-on while improving climate resilience and community well-being,” Musa stated.

Environmental experts have commended the initiative as one of the most ambitious state-driven afforestation efforts in Northern Nigeria, noting that it has the potential to improve soil fertility, conserve biodiversity and secure a greener future for generations.

With strong political will, strategic planning and federal endorsement, Governor Buni continues to position Yobe State as a model for environmental restoration and sustainable development, Daily Hint reports.