By: Abdullahi InuwaÂ
In a bold move to tackle climate change and restore the environment, the Katsina State Government, through the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), has partnered with UNICEF Field Office Kano to launch an ambitious campaign to plant 7,000 trees across 70 public institutions in the state.
The initiative, which targets schools, healthcare facilities and other public establishments across the seven old Local Government Areas, is aimed at strengthening climate resilience, curbing desertification and creating healthier communities. Each participating institution will receive 100 tree seedlings for planting and nurturing.
Speaking during the orientation and planning meeting for the exercise, the representative of the Executive Director of RUWASSA and UNICEF WASH Desk Officer, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, described the project as a key step towards safeguarding the environment and supporting the Katsina State Government’s climate action agenda.
He said the campaign reflects the government’s determination to reduce the devastating effects of climate change while improving environmental conditions in public institutions across the state.
According to him, trees are indispensable in preserving ecosystems, improving air quality, preventing soil erosion, conserving biodiversity and providing much-needed shade, all of which contribute to building communities that are better equipped to withstand the growing impacts of climate change.
Dr. Abdullahi urged the management of beneficiary institutions, community leaders, students and residents to take full ownership of the initiative by ensuring the newly planted trees are regularly watered, protected from damage and properly maintained to guarantee their survival.
He stressed that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility, encouraging citizens to complement government efforts by planting and nurturing trees in their homes, schools, places of worship and communities.
Beyond restoring the environment, the campaign is expected to deepen public awareness of climate action and environmental stewardship while supporting Katsina State’s broader drive toward sustainable development and resilience against climate-related challenges.
RUWASSA expressed appreciation to the Katsina State Government, the Ministry of Environment, UNICEF, Local Government Authorities, development partners, participating institutions and community members for their support in bringing the initiative to life.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to implementing programmes that promote environmental sustainability, improve public health and enhance the quality of life for residents, as Katsina continues to position itself among states taking proactive steps to address the growing threat of climate change.



