Table of Contents
- Deployment of Forest Guards
- Recovery of Forest Estates
- Chairman's Statement
- Governor's Initiative
- Environmental Protection
- Commissioner's Remarks
- Event Highlights
The Katsina State Government has assigned 70 forest guards to improve surveillance and protect both forest reserves and stock routes within the state.
Additionally, over 322,591 hectares of forest estates have been reclaimed.
Khalil Bako, Chairman of the State Taskforce Committee on the Recovery of Forest Reserves and Stock Routes, made this announcement during an orientation session for the newly appointed forest guards on Thursday in Katsina.
Bako mentioned that several related cases have been submitted for prosecution.
He explained that the purpose of deploying the forest guards is to enhance surveillance and safeguard forest reserves and stock routes throughout the state.
The chairman noted that Katsina has become the first state in the country to implement the Federal Government’s initiative just four days after the nationwide inauguration of 7,000 forest guards.
According to Bako, this prompt action demonstrates the proactive and decisive leadership of Governor Dikko Radda's administration.
Bako stated that the recruitment of the guards aligns with the constitutional powers granted to the governor under Sections 5(2) and 208 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“The forest guards initiative will bolster the protection of forest reserves against illegal logging, encroachment, and other activities harmful to the environment and security,” he added.
Bako regarded the event as a significant milestone in the state government’s commitment to environmental protection, sustainable forest management, curbing the actions of illegal chainsaw operators, and enhancing security.
Dr. Faisal Umar-Kaita, Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, praised Bako for his perseverance and commitment.
He attributed the insecurity in the state to unregulated areas within forest reserves, which have become safe havens for criminal elements.
Umar-Kaita emphasized that the forest guards will play a vital role in safeguarding forest areas and ensuring timely reporting and response to any illegal activities.
“The forest guards initiative addresses years of neglect of our forest reserves by ensuring proper monitoring and control,” he stated.
The commissioner highlighted the importance of the taskforce in forest recovery as part of a broader strategy to combat insecurity in the state.
Highlights of the event included the unveiling of the Taskforce Committee Secretariat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of deploying forest guards in Katsina State?
The deployment of forest guards aims to enhance surveillance and protect forest reserves and stock routes across the state, addressing illegal logging and encroachment.
How many forest guards have been deployed?
The Katsina State Government has deployed 70 forest guards.
What areas have been recovered by the Katsina State Government?
The government has successfully recovered more than 322,591 hectares of forest estates.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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