Gombe State NEWMAP-EIB Hosts National Horticultural Research Institute, Dadin Kowa.

Gombe State NEWMAP-EIB hosts National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Dadin Kowa on a courtesy visit aimed at partnering with the NEWMAP-EIB project on Environmental Reclamation through production and planting of trees and Economic Sustainability by training and improving livelihoods.

Delivering his address, the Head of Station at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Dadin Kowa Experimental Station, Mr. Nasiru M. Usman, formally declared the Institute’s keen interest in forging a strategic collaborative partnership with the NEWMAP-EIB Project. He explained that this alliance is urgently needed to mount a robust, multi-pronged response to the twin challenges of climate-induced land degradation exemplified by the widespread gully erosion ravaging arable lands, and the escalating pressure to ensure national food security. To achieve this, Mr. Usman reiterated the critical importance of propagating climate-resilient crops and indigenous tree species that are currently on the brink of extinction, thereby conserving vital genetic resources while simultaneously restoring ecological balance.

Furthermore, Mr. Nasiru emphasized that equipping communities with plant-production training will enhance tree and crop productivity while simultaneously generating added economic value.

In his response, the Gombe State NEWMAP-EIB Project Coordinator, Dr. Shittu Whanda Ja’afaru, noted that the tree-planting mandate has been deeply instilled in everyone by His Excellency, Alh. Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, since he assumed office. He added that this widespread adoption reflects the Governor’s governance philosophy, which aligns seamlessly with the project’s guiding motto: ‘Adapting Today, Safeguarding Tomorrow’.

Dr. Ja’afaru further emphasized that seedling propagation and planting should extend beyond mere numerical targets to deliver visible, tangible outcomes. He also advocated for the inclusion of both indigenous and exotic tree species.

Dr. Ja’afaru further elaborated that structured training programs and targeted public sensitization campaigns are indispensable for community members. These initiatives are essential not only to underscore the critical importance of aggressive tree-planting efforts but also to equip local populations with the practical knowledge needed to actively combat the escalating adverse effects of climate change, ranging from severe land degradation and gully erosion to unpredictable rainfall patterns and diminishing soil fertility.

Adaptating Today, Safeguarding Tomorrow.