The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has flagged off the planting and distribution of 5,000 tree seedlings donated by the Sirajo Yakubu Foundation for Development (SYFD). The exercise took place at the Eid Ground in Batagarawa Local Government Area, with the seedlings to be planted across the local government and beyond.
Governor Radda, represented by the State Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Yusha’u El-Sunais, emphasized that environmental protection has become a top priority of his administration. He noted that the state government is currently nurturing 3 million tree seedlings for distribution across the state, adding that all new road projects in Katsina will include designated spaces for tree planting to curb desert encroachment and protect the ecosystem.
Commending the initiative of the Sirajo Yakubu Foundation for Development, the Governor stated that the 5,000 trees could generate an estimated ₦520 million annually when matured, underscoring their immense economic, social, and environmental value. He described the Foundation’s gesture as a strong complement to government efforts in environmental sustainability.
In his remarks, the Founder and President of the Foundation, Dr. Sirajo Yakubu, explained that although the Foundation is yet to be formally inaugurated, it has already embarked on several impactful programs for the benefit of Batagarawa Local Government and Katsina State at large. He described the tree planting as a pilot initiative under the Foundation’s programs on environment, education, and community development, stressing that the seedlings represent the beginning of a broader vision to foster prosperity and resilience in the region.
The Chairman of the Katsina State Watershed and Erosion Management Agency (KWEMA) also aligned the project with the state government’s agenda, describing it as a direct contribution to combating environmental degradation.
Similarly, the Chairman of Batagarawa Local Government, Hon. Yahaya Lawal Kawo (represented by Hon. Shamsu Sadisu), pledged full support to ensure the seedlings are distributed and nurtured effectively. The Member representing Batagarawa Constituency in the Katsina State House of Assembly, Hon. Shagumba, urged residents to protect and maintain the trees, emphasizing the long-term benefits for the community.
Other dignitaries who lauded the effort included Hon. Abubakar Soja Tsanni (Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth), former Commissioner of Works Alhaji Tasiu Dahiru Dandagoro, APC Local Government Chairman, and former Batagarawa LG Chairman Alhaji Bala Tsanni. They all praised the Foundation for its foresight in addressing climate change, erosion, and desertification challenges facing the area.
How It Captures SYFD’s Programs
This tree planting initiative reflects the Foundation’s core program areas, particularly:
- Climate Change & Environmental Protection: By providing seedlings, the Foundation contributes to combating desertification, soil erosion, and climate challenges.
- Community Development: The program empowers local communities to take ownership of tree planting and protection.
- Sustainability & Economic Growth: The long-term economic potential of the trees highlights the Foundation’s commitment to wealth creation and resilience.
Benefits to the Community
- Environmental Impact: Reduces erosion, desert encroachment, and strengthens climate resilience.
- Economic Value: Potential to generate millions annually when trees mature.
- Health & Livelihoods: Trees improve air quality, provide shade, and enhance agricultural productivity.
- Legacy of Sustainability: Encourages a culture of environmental stewardship across Katsina State.
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