"Ningi Emirate Launches Taskforce to Combat Illegal Logging, Charcoal Production"

By Khalid Idris Doya

The Ningi Emirate has taken a bold step to combat environmental degradation by inaugurating a taskforce to clamp down on illegal logging and charcoal production within its domain. The move is in support of the Bauchi state government's efforts to curb desert encroachment and environmental degradation.

According to a statement issued by the Special Assistant on Media to the Emir of Ningi, Sadam Mato Burra, the Emir of Ningi, Alhaji Haruna Yunusa Danyaya III, chairs the taskforce. The Emir stressed that the initiative was prompted by the alarming rate of deforestation and its destructive impact on the environment. "The taskforce will strictly enforce environmental protection laws and ensure that violators face the full weight of the law," he said.

The Waziri of Ningi, Amb. Ahmed Shuaibu Ningi, issued a stern warning to individuals involved in unlawful tree felling and charcoal or timber production. "Anyone caught in such acts will be prosecuted promptly," he warned. He further revealed that certain tree species, including Dorawa, Tsamiya, Kanya, Tabo, and Dinya, are now entirely banned from being cut down, even within private properties.

The chairmen of Ningi and Warji Local Government Areas, who serve as deputy chairmen of the taskforce, reaffirmed their commitment to the cause. They noted that they have long supported efforts to protect the environment and that the time has come for decisive action.

According to Sadam, the taskforce has since begun operations, sending a clear message that the era of leniency toward environmental offenses is over. Illegal logging remains a major contributor to desertification, soil erosion, flooding, and climate change, issues the Ningi Emirate says it is determined to confront head-on.

The Ningi Emirate's efforts to protect the environment are commendable, and it remains to be seen how effective the taskforce will be in curbing illegal logging and charcoal production. However, with the Emir's commitment and the support of the local government chairmen, there is hope that the initiative will yield positive results.