Zulum distributes clean energy Kits to 7,500 to teachers, others, plants 4m tree
By Ahmed Ahmed
Gov. Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has distributed clean cook stoves and cooking gas cylinders to 7,500 primary school teachers and sanitation vanguards to reduce dependence on firewood, protect forests, improve public health and lower carbon emissions.
He stated this at the officially launched of the 2026 National Tree Planting Campaign of 4 million trees on Thursday in Maiduguri,
As part of the programme, the governor distributed clean cook stoves and cooking gas cylinders to 5,000 teachers and 2,500 Environmental Protection Agency sanitation vanguards.
Zulum described tree planting as more than a ceremonial exercise, saying it represents a collective commitment to protecting the environment, securing future generations and promoting sustainable development.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental restoration and climate resilience as
He noted that Borno, being a frontline state in the Sahel region, continues to face severe environmental challenges, including desert encroachment, rising temperatures, dwindling vegetation and land degradation.
According to him, these challenges threaten agriculture, food security, water resources and the livelihoods of millions of residents.
Zulum emphasised that environmental restoration remains a key component of the state’s rebuilding and recovery agenda, stressing that sustainable peace and development cannot thrive in a degraded environment.
He commended the Federal Ministry of Environment for selecting Borno to host the national campaign, describing it as recognition of the state’s resilience and transformation.
Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Lawal, praised the initiative, describing it as a practical approach to combating desertification and reducing pressure on forest resources.
He said Borno was setting a commendable example in environmental sustainability.
Similarly, Director-General of the National Agency for the Great Green Wall, Mr. Saleh Abubakar, called for sustained investment in afforestation and clean energy programmes to address climate change, safeguard livelihoods and strengthen food security across vulnerable communities.
