Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has labeled climate change a major hurdle for current development efforts. He warned that issues like land degradation, desertification, and frequent flooding are actively undermining agricultural output and local livelihoods.
The governor spoke on Tuesday in Dutse during the launch of the Jigawa State governance structure for the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Green Nigeria Challenge. The event also marked the creation of new environmental clubs in schools and societies in higher education institutions. Second Lady Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima performed the official inauguration, representing First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
Governor Namadi highlighted that Jigawa’s position within a semi-arid zone and the Great Green Wall corridor makes the state highly vulnerable to ecological shifts. Despite these hardships, he praised the resilience of Jigawa’s residents. He noted that his administration has prioritized climate resilience and sustainability by integrating these goals into state policy and investment strategies.
The governor emphasized that the new state governance structure aligns with the Jigawa State Climate Change Policy, aiming to foster better natural resource management and sustainable farming. He specifically called for youth involvement, noting that younger generations are vital for the long-term protection of the environment. He also lauded Senator Tinubu for the RHI program, which he deemed a necessary intervention for nationwide environmental recovery.
Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima commended the state for its dedication to environmental health. She described the Green Nigeria Challenge as a broad campaign to encourage sanitation and tree planting across all levels of society. Given the state’s struggle with desertification, she urged citizens to cultivate hardy crops and trees, including moringa, date palms, and neem, while encouraging students to lead local conservation efforts.
