The Cross River State Government expressed its readiness to align with Federal Government forest and ecosystem conservation policies, aiming to enhance the economy and address environmental issues like deforestation, flooding, degradation, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
On Wednesday, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Cross River State Governor, affirmed this commitment during the 2023 World Bamboo Day celebration in Abuja, focusing on “Environmental Restoration and Job Creation.”
Otu who was represented by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the State Forestry Commission, Adm. Dr George O’ben-Etchi, FCIA, noted that planting bamboo could significantly boost the state economy and support the federal government’s efforts in combating climate change.
He pledged a commitment to prioritize bamboo planting by the state government, aiming to boost forest cover, conserve ecosystems, and generate additional employment opportunities for the youth.
Otu emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding the environment, conserving natural resources, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring a healthy environment for citizens’ well-being.
“We’re convinced that planting bamboo can enhance state revenue and elevate its tourist appeal while safeguarding the ecosystem. It’s crucial to take precautionary measures against climate change.”
He urged potential investors and stakeholders to capitalize on the extensive arable land and the conducive business environment established in the state” Otu added.
Prior to the Governor’s remark, Minister of Environment Mallam Balarabe Lawal emphasized the significance of bamboo as a crucial economic plant in Nigeria. He urged farmers and stakeholders to increase bamboo planting, highlighting its role in combating climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and serving as a raw material for various products.
Earlier, Mr. Lawrence Adigwe, the Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Environment, highlighted that promoting bamboo cultivation would contribute to enhancing biodiversity.
“It’s a rapid grower, maturing in just a few years. This makes it a powerful ally in the fight against deforestation through reforestation and afforestation.”
Director-General of the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, Cui Guangzhen, represented by Gene Zhang expressed China’s commitment to enhance bamboo utilization in Nigeria by establishing a thriving bamboo industry in the country.
The highlight of the event included presentations on “Bamboo, The Miracle Plant” by Dr. John Ogbodo from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, “Bamboo as a Driver for Poverty Alleviation” by Mr. Donald Omo-Dudu from RMRCN, and insights from a representative of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce on the “Chinese Bamboo Success Story.”
The Federal Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the China-General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria, orchestrated the 2023 World Bamboo Day to globally spotlight the remarkable benefits of bamboo.
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