Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State on Saturday, April 20, 2024, flagged-off a project involving the planting of two million assorted economic tree crops across nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state: Gashaka, Bali, Kurmi, Sardauna, Takum, Ussa, Wukari, Donga and Gassol. The initiative aims to combat climate change and promote economic empowerment among the local communities.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, Gov. Kefas urged the people of Taraba State to embrace the initiative, emphasising that the tree crops would not only help mitigate the effects of climate change but will also serve as a significant source of income for the communities.
In her welcome address, the Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change, Hajiya Aishat A. Barde, highlighted the importance of the project and called on all Tarabans to actively participate. She emphasised that this is the first phase of the project and that all other local governments would subsequently be covered.
The Commissioner stressed that the “Green Taraba Project” is a collective responsibility that must be taken seriously by all Tarabans.
She expressed gratitude to Gov. Kefas for his unwavering support to the Green Taraba Project. She also thanked various partners involved in the initiative for their continued support and collaboration.
“The launch of the 2 million rosewood and assorted economic tree crops project signifies a significant step towards biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, environmental stewardship and economic empowerment in Taraba State. It showcases the Governor Agbu Kefas led government’s commitment to addressing climate change challenges while creating valuable opportunities for local communities to improve their livelihoods,” Barde added.
According to her, the initiative underscores the governor’s commitment to regreen Taraba State, adding that stakeholders agreed that planting 2 million economic tree crops is a commendable effort towards building a greener, more economically resilient Taraba.
“It is essential for all Tarabans to join hands in ensuring the success of this project, as it holds the potential to enhance environmental conservation, boost local economies, and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.”
The ceremony also had in attendance the Speaker, Taraba State House of Assembly, Kizito John Bonzena; the Deputy Speaker, Hammadama Borkono; the Senator Representing Taraba South, Sen. David S. Jimkuta; the former Deputy Governor, Alh. Armayau Abubakar; the Secretary to the Government of the State, Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps; members of the State House of Assembly; members of the State Executive Council; Local Government Chairmen led by the ALGON Chairman, Dr. Aminu Jauro Mafindi; various interest groups; and the general public.
