Kano-LEADS Advocates for Action on Environmental Issues
By Mustapha Salisu
In its commitment to fostering the sustained growth and development of Kano State, an NGO, Kano Leadership, Enlightenment, and Advocacy for Development Initiative (KANO-LEADS) launched an advocacy initiative targeting government agencies and stakeholders in the state.
As part of this initiative, the Environment and Infrastructure Cluster of Kano LEADS conducted an advocacy visit to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change on Wednesday, focusing on addressing environmental and climate-related issues in Kano State.
Alh. Abubakar Sadik Umar, Secretary-General of Kano-LEADS and head of the delegation, emphasized that the visit aimed at establishing collaboration for sharing progressive advice to enhance Kano State’s well-being.
Expressing concern about the environmental impact of roadside refuse dumping, Alh. Abubakar suggested the establishment of a refuse collection company, urging households to register for weekly garbage collection and recycling.
Addressing climate change issues, he called for a widespread awareness campaign through various media platforms.
Alh. Abubakar proposed a policy requiring anyone purchasing land in Kano State for building to plant a tree as a contribution to mitigating climate change.
Additionally, he requested the establishment of a desk in the Ministry to facilitate engagement with the government, NGOs like Kano-LEADS, and the governed to share ideas for Kano’s progress.
On his part, Engr. Babangida Lamido, a Waste Water Engineer, highlighted concerns about improper ventilation in certain Kano LGAs, emphasizing the need for urgent action before an expected rise in temperatures to 46° Celcius between 15 March to 1st April, 2024.
Alh. Musa Maigari equally urged the government to regulate bone burning at the abbatoir market, citing health concerns due to harmful emissions. He emphasized the importance of educating the public about the harmful effects of burning different materials.
In response, Hon. Nasiru Sule Garo, the Commissioner of the Ministry for Environment and Climate Change, commended Kano-LEADS for their relentless efforts. He acknowledged the significance of advocacy in addressing environmental and climate change issues.
Garo noted that the state government is actively exploring proposals from companies to transform refuse into wealth through recycling. He assured that all suggestions received would be documented for consideration and implementation by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Garo reiterated the ministry’s openness to Kano-LEADS for advice and collaboration to achieve developmental progress in Kano State.
