State dinner for the 18th National Council on Environment

Let me begin by expressing my gratitude to Allah for sparing our lives to witness this remarkable day that is part of the 18th National Council on Environment in Katsina. The event reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our natural environment.

As you all witnessed during your short stay in the State, Katsina has rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities and natural beauty. I am sure the main objective of the meeting is to come up with innovative solutions to our environmental challenges in order to build a more sustainable future for our Country through collaboration between governments, industries and civil society organizations. By working together, we can establish comprehensive policies and regulations that will greatly assist in addressing issues like air and water pollution, land degradation, etc.

Let me at this juncture call on the Federal Ministry of Environment to Collaborate with the Federal and State Ministries of Education and integrate Environmental Education into School Curricula as well as organize youth led initiatives so that we can inspire and empower the next generation to become agents of change in our respective communities. In other words, let us tap from youth creativity, innovation and passion to find solutions and implement sustainable practices in our communities.

In line with the policy of this administration to support climate change and clean environment, we flagged off the massive evacuation of refuse in our Major Cities and towns across the State. As leaders, policy makers and stakeholders, we must bear the responsibility to safeguard our planet for future generations.

Sometimes in 2024, we inaugurated the Katsina State Climate Chang Council (SCCC) to spearhead initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change and foster resilience in our communities. Our belief is that environmental sustainability is not just a policy but a way of life.

In Katsina State, we prioritized the development of Rural Infrastructure including roads, irrigation cultural productivity and ensure food security. By investing in modern farming techniques and empowering our youth through vocational training, we are creating a greener and more prosperous Katsina State.

At this juncture, I wish to extend my heart felt appreciation to all council members and other participants who travelled from far and wide to contribute to this important dialogue. Your presence here under scores the urgency of our mission and the strength of our collective will.

It is pertinent to mention and recognize the invaluable support Katsina State is getting from the Federal Ministry of Environment and other partners such as the United Nation Development Programme (UNDP), UNICEF, the World Bank, the European Union Commission, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and of course other international and Local Development Agencies. Your collaboration with Katsina State has been instrumental in advancing our Environmental Agenda.

As we enjoy these festivities, let us not forget the challenges before us. Climate change, deforestation and pollution continue to threaten our ecosystem and livelihoods. It is therefore imperative for us to translate the discussions and resolutions of this Council meeting into actionable policies and programmes to be adopted and implemented by the Federal and State Governments.

Beyond the conference hall, I urge you all to explore the rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks and commercial vibrancy of Katsina State. Katsina is not only one of the oldest cities in sub-saharan Africa, but also a centre of Commerce, scholarships and cultural civilization with unique blend of tradition and progress. It is important for you to witness our ongoing transformation driven by the present Administration through people centred projects and urban renewal programmes that are gradually restoring Katsina to its historic status as a city of excellence and opportunity. Indeed Katsina is a home away from home.

Once again, I thank you all for gracing this occasion. Let us use this opportunity to strengthen our partnerships, celebrate our achievements and renew our commitment for building a sustainable future for all. May our collective efforts bear fruit and may we leave a legacy of environmental stewardship for generations to come.

Long live Katsina State and Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,

I wish all of you safe trip back to your respective destinations.

Thank you and may God bless us all.