By Muhammad Nasir Bashir
The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), says it will hold a high profile celebration on July 29 to mark its 10th anniversary.
The Director-General (D-G) of the agency, Mr Sale Abubakar, made this known on Friday in Dutse during a courtesy visit to Gov. Umar Namadi.
Abubakar said the agency, has over the years led national efforts in combating desertification, restoring degraded lands and improving livelihoods in the 11 frontline states of Northern Nigeria.
He explained that through extensive afforrestation, water harvesting, and community engagement programmes, the agency made measurable contributions to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
The director-general added that Jigawa was among the 11 frontline states of the the agency’s operation and due to its strategic importance.
Abubakar stated, “Aside the normal GGW activities, projects like the Action Against Desertification (AAD) and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), were all executed in the state.
“The agency will be bold to state that, Jigawa has the highest GGW activities and other international funding support.
“Hennce the reason to select it as the venue for this year’s GGW Day which coincides with the 10th Anniversary of the agency.
“To commemorate a decade of dedicated service and raise national awareness, the agency is planning a high-profile celebration to be hosted in Dutse on 29th July, 2025.”
According to him, the event will serve as a moment of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to the goals of the African Union-led Great Green Wall Initiative (GGWI).
Abubakar added that the previous GGW Day was celebrated in Abuja with Vice-President Kashim Shettima in attendance, among other top-notch personalities.
He added that the event would feature activities like National Green Wall Summit and a fund raising to complement the Federal Government’s effort.
According to him, other activities lined up include public tree planting campaigns, environmental awareness programmes, cultural and stakeholders engagement, as well as awards to recognise partners and contributors.
“We are extolling your remarkable commitment to national development and CSR particularly in supporting social impactful causes.
“Therefore, your usual cooperation in championing the cause of mitigating climate change menace in your state and beyond, the agency decided to host this year’s event in Dutse.
“This is to appreciate your unwavering commitment to environmental concerns.
Responding, the Governor commended the agency for its laudable programmes that helped the state safeguard its environment and restored degraded soil in many parts of the state.
Namadi assured of his administration’s readiness to host the summit as well as ensure its success in all ramifications.
“I want to assure that Jigawa is happy to host this year’s summit and we are ready to ensure the success of the summit in all ramifications.
“You will find us cooperative and supportive.
“As a New World, on behalf of the people and government of Jigawa, I want to sincerely thank you for choosing the state for this year’s summit,” the governor added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
