Greening Taraba: Taraba Govt, military partner to mitigate effects of climate change

 

By Sani Yarima  Jalingo.

The Taraba State Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change, Aisha Barde, has emphasized the state government's dedication to improving ecological balance, conserving biodiversity, and restoring degraded lands as part of broader climate action for mitigation measures. 

She made this commitment during the tree-planting event, held in collaboration with the Nigerian Army at the permanent site of the 6 Brigade Jalingo, the state capital on Saturday, 27 July 2024.

Barde highlighted that the GREENING TARABA Initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability and combat climate change, as well as create awareness within the State and the North East region of the nation. 

She also pointed out that Nigeria, through the Designated National Authority, is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% unconditionally and 47% conditionally with international support between now and 2030 through its Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement.

She further explained that the initiative not only focuses on enhancing the environment but also on providing economic benefits to the community through sustainable practices. 

Barde emphasized that the tree planting exercise is part of the state government's effort to increase the land area covered by trees to mitigate the impacts of climate change and contribute to global efforts in mitigating the effects of climate change.

Furthermore, the deliberate collaboration between her and the Army aims to emphasize the need to form a united front in the fight against climate insecurity as a best practice, both locally and internationally. 

Aishat Barde commended the 6 Brigade Commander, Brig. Gen. Uwa, and his team for their unwavering support towards the success of the program.

In his address, the Commander of the 6 Brigade Jalingo, Brig. Gen. Uwa emphasized the need for collaboration and commitment of both the military and civilians in planting trees to mitigate environmental degradation. 

He stressed the need for strong partnerships to achieve the desired results in sustaining the environment.

The Commander also mentioned that the tree planting campaign at the Army Barracks in Jalingo is the first phase of a series of planned activities designed to restore and preserve the natural environment. 

He added that the collaboration with GREENING TARABA INITIATIVE underscores their commitment to not only protecting the nation but also safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Additionally, he says the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army is proud to join hands with the Taraba State Government through the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in this noble cause.

Subsequently, the Chairman House Committee on Environment at the State House of Assembly, Tafarki Agbadu, who represented Governor Agbu Kefas at the occasion appreciated the Nigerian Army's proactive role in environmental conservation. 

On his part, the State ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Jalingo LGC, Aminu Jauro Hassan, supported the program, which is in line with the five-point agenda of Governor Agbu Kefas's administration.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Aminu Kotolo, said the tree planting exercise reflects a proactive measure geared toward fostering a greener future and indicated a shared commitment to addressing the menace of environmental and climate change issues.

The Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association (NAOWA), 6 Brigade branch, Dr. Mrs. Rachael Uwa, was among the distinguished guests at the event.

Members of the public were enjoined to subscribe to the initiative and actively engage in tree-planting and ensure nurturing them for survival.