By OBSERVERS TIMES
The Federal Government has commenced the establishment of a Bamboo development factory in Kogi State as part of efforts to boost Nigeria’s Bamboo and Rattan economy.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, announced this on Wednesday during a ministerial briefing held in Abuja. He explained that the initiative aligns with the diversification drive of the Renewed Hope Administration.
“The Ministry has commenced implementation of a Bamboo development factory in Kogi State to promote the Bamboo and Rattan economy in Nigeria,” Lawal said.
He further revealed that feasibility studies for seven additional Bamboo factories are ongoing in Ogun, Cross River, Kaduna, Edo, Benue, Ekiti, and Taraba States.
The Minister emphasized that the Ministry’s Department of Forestry has been actively implementing various initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and socio-economic development.
In addition to the Bamboo factory, Lawal highlighted the Ministry’s massive afforestation efforts, noting that over 4 million trees have been planted nationwide in collaboration with the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) and the Accelerating Community-based Restoration of the Sahel Land (ACReSAL).
“Significant afforestation programs are underway in Bagga Forest Reserve, Tila Arewa LGA of Kebbi State; Agwada Kokona LGA of Nasarawa State; and Karara, Lokoja LGA of Kogi State,” he added.
Lawal also praised the achievements of the National Agency for the Great Green Wall, which has raised millions of seedlings, established protective shelterbelts, and conducted vocational training and empowerment programs for youth and women in frontline states.
Stressing the importance of a collaborative approach, Lawal called for the involvement of government agencies, private sector actors, communities, and development partners in tackling environmental challenges.
He highlighted the urgent need to strengthen policies, improve enforcement mechanisms, increase financial investments, and enhance public awareness to ensure sustainable environmental management and resilience against climate change.
The Minister expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and continuous support for the Ministry’s programs.
Lawal concluded by urging collective action from all stakeholders, including the press, to drive sustainable development for the benefit of current and future generations.
