Bauchi Moves Against Bush Burning, Launches Climate Assembly

Bauchi State Ministry of Housing and Environment has engaged stakeholders on the dangers of bush burning. It is part of the government’s strategic effort to address environmental and climate-related risks posed by indiscriminate bush burning in the state.

The ministry also inaugurated the Bauchi State Climate Assembly to support the government’s efforts to address climate change in the state.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement and sensitisation campaign, themed “Bush Burning and its Impact on Our Climate”, held at the ministry’s Conference Hall yesterday, the commissioner for Housing and Environment, Hon. Danlami Ahmed Kawule, said the forum seeks to confront climate challenges with a particular focus on bush burning, its prevention, and mitigation.

Represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Hamisu Mohammed, the commissioner said bush burning contributes to climate change, land degradation, biodiversity loss, reduced soil fertility and health hazards for citizens.

He added that climate change affects land use, food security, environmental sustainability and livelihoods, stressing that addressing the menace requires collective action, strong policy enforcement, public awareness and sustainable land management practices.

Kawule encouraged all stakeholders to share practical solutions, strengthen collaboration and promote climate-smart practices to safeguard land, enhance agricultural resilience and support sustainable development.

The commissioner described the Climate Assembly as a platform for empowering citizens to shape strategies and long-term interventions against climate change.

For his part, the ministry’s director of Climate Change, Nasiru Umar, explained the dangers of bush burning, noting that it often occurs during the dry season or hunting expeditions.

“While these practices may seem routine, their overall impact is harmful. They contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, accelerate climate change, destroy vegetation, and threaten wildlife habitats,” he said.

Umar emphasised that bush burning cannot be addressed by individuals alone but requires collective responsibility. He added that the ministry is actively raising awareness, engaging community leaders, and sensitising the public to prevent the practice.