The Kano State Government has announced a statewide ban on the illegal use of chainsaws for cutting, felling, and trimming of trees.
Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change in the State, Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, announced this at a press conference on Tuesday in Kano.
Hashim said the measure was necessary to tackle rising deforestation across the state.
“This action is necessary to stop indiscriminate deforestation, protect the environment, and ensure sustainable management of natural resources,” Dr. Hashim said.
He warned that violators face strict punishment. “Enforcement will be strict, with fines of ₦500,000 and possible imprisonment for unlicensed chainsaw use, and ₦250,000 per tree for illegal tree-felling.
“Offenders will also be ordered to replant and have their equipment confiscated,” he emphasised.
In order to regulate their activities, the ministry revealed that it has rolled out a Chainsaw Usage Permit Framework (CUPF) which makes it mandatory for commercial operators to register with the ministry, obtain renewable annual licenses, and secure permits before cutting trees.
“We have set up a digital registry of licensed operators, and all permits will carry QR codes for verification,” the commissioner revealed. “Every felled tree must be replaced with two to three new saplings.”
Hashim further noted that the initiative was supported by national environmental laws and Nigeria’s climate strategy.
He called for the cooperation of community leaders to ensure the success of the policy.
“We urge schools, local government chairmen, Imams, religious leaders, and traditional rulers to support the initiative and educate communities on the dangers of illegal tree cutting,” he added.
The commissioner further described the move as a landmark in environmental protection.
“This is a decisive step in our fight against deforestation. Kano is setting a new standard for environmental protection,” the Commissioner said.
