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The Kwara State Government has officially announced the re-opening of forests in the State for sawmill and forestry related activities.
Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, stated this while interacting with saw millers, chainsaw operators and plank sellers in the State.
Hajia Buge stated that the initial closure was necessary to address international reports on the status of the state on climate related matters.
She expressed concern over how indiscriminate tree felling has affected availability of shea butter and locust beans trees, which, according to her, are both crucial for economic sustenance in rural and urban areas.
The Commissioner urged stakeholders to fulfill their commitment to government by ensuring proper registration, renewal of registration licences, strict adherence to the policy of planting five trees in replacement of any tree cut down, and use of waste management companies for their waste disposal rather than setting them on fire.
Hajia Buge warned that unregistered operators would be prosecuted and their licences would be revoked.
The Kwara State Government had in January 2025, declared all forests closed for natural regeneration and to allow the Ministry engage with stakeholders on best practices in their line of business.
By Muinat Usman
