Residents of Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, have praised the state government for its ongoing large-scale tree planting campaign under the “Operation Green Jalingo” initiative, describing it as a major step towards improving the city’s environment and tackling the effects of climate change.
The exercise is being carried out by the Taraba State Environmental Sanitation Agency (TSESA), led by its Chairman, Hon. Iliya Kefas.
According to the agency, the project is aimed at reducing environmental degradation while promoting a greener and healthier environment across the state.
The trees have been planted along several major roads in Jalingo, including Hamaruwa Way, Barde Way, TY Danjuma House Road through the State House of Assembly, Roadblock to ATC Road, Palace Way, and the TSTC Dual Carriage Road.
It was gathered that between 2,000 and 2,500 trees have so far been planted, with each tree costing between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000.
Residents who spoke with our correspondent welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that the project would transform the city’s landscape and create a more conducive environment when the trees mature.
“Trees are very good in any environment, apart from producing shield, trees also make conducive environment and good atmosphere for the leaving, the state government deserve applause for spending this much to make citizens happy have good environment,” said Ezekiel Amadu, an environmentalist.
Another resident, Joshua Ayagwa, said the project would give Jalingo the green outlook seen in many developed cities if the trees are properly maintained.
“We only travel out to see other cities looking very green, now, we have the same experience here in Jalingo. I believe if the trees are well taken care of, their impact would be felt in the next few years,” he stated.
Speaking with our correspondent, the Chairman of TSESA, Hon. Iliya Kefas, said the initiative was inspired by Governor Agbu Kefas’ commitment to environmental sustainability following the recent launch of the Taraba State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan.
“The governor of Taraba state Dr. Agbu Kefas’ recently launched the Taraba state climate change and called for action plans, we quickly cue into the initiative to complement the governor’s efforts to green Taraba and avoid effects of climate change.”
He appealed to residents of Jalingo to protect the newly planted trees and nurture them to maturity so that future generations can benefit from a healthier environment.
The Operation Green Jalingo initiative is expected to improve the city’s aesthetics, enhance air quality, and contribute to the state’s broader efforts to address the challenges of climate change.
