The Kano State Government has issued a directive for businesses operating in parks and gardens initially designated as relaxation areas to vacate the premises. This order was announced by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Nasiru Sule-Garo, during the celebration of the 2024 World Environment Day on Wednesday.
Commissioner Sule-Garo emphasized the government's commitment to restoring these areas to their intended purpose as public parks and "oxygen bags" for the community. He noted that several parks, such as the one opposite Abdullahi Waste Hospital and another on Audu Bako Way, had been inappropriately converted into business sites.
In line with its efforts to combat climate change, the government plans to plant three million seedlings in partnership with ACReSaL and other stakeholders. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, recently renamed to address global climate issues, is spearheading this initiative.
Additionally, the ministry has been proactive in other environmental management activities, including clearing drainages, controlling erosion, and conducting mosquito and pest control operations across Kano's 44 local government areas and schools.
Sule-Garo highlighted the health risks posed by disease vectors and pests, which transmit illnesses such as malaria, cholera, and Lassa fever. The ministry's efforts aim to reduce the morbidity and mortality rates in rural communities.
The Commissioner also mentioned the revitalization of the Kano Afforestation Project and the development of the Kano climate change policy to foster an environmentally friendly state. He urged residents to avoid indiscriminate refuse dumping, as house-to-house sanitary inspections will continue to ensure a clean and tidy environment.
