FG commits N16bn for implementation of GGW project

The Minister of Environment, Mrs. Lawrentia Mallam has revealed that the sum of N16 billion had been released to facilitate the implementation of the Great Green Wall Programme in Nigeria which is expected to run for three years.
The minister made this known in Abuja, at a press briefing preceding the flag-off of the project by President Goodluck Jonathan.
Fielding questions from journalists, Mrs. Mallam, said the ministry is proud to invite Mr. President for the flag-off of the Programme because the ministry is fully ready.
“The frame work have started since 2013, 2014 and even 2015, Mr. President have also provided for the 2015 framework, the fund required for program to run through the period of three years have been made available by Mr. President,’’ she said. “All together, he provided N16 billion for the project and the money has been released to us, it is intact for the Programme, so we don’t have to go back to him again for any reason, because the money is there and we are fully prepared.”
The nation’s environment boss further stated that, “Mr. President has therefore asked me to inform you that because of the significance of this program, it’s National, regional and continental scope as well as it’s expected positive impact on our national economy and environment, he has decided to personally flag-off the implementation of the program in order to underscore the premium he attaches to environmental transformation and use the program to create jobs for our teeming youths.
“Today is therefore a pre-event press briefing to announce to you that Mr. President will formally and officially flag-off the implementation of the GGW Programme which is billed for Tuesday 25th November, 2014.”
The GGW project is expected to provide shelter cover for affected communities and create an ozone friendly environment in the region.
According to her, there will be availability of economic trees and abundant fruits, including mango, orange, guava, plantain and pineapple among other forest crops in the coming years.
Mallam reiterates that public sensitisation and awareness creation are paramount to achieving success in environmental sustainability.
She urged the host communities to of the GGW Programme in the frontline states to know that whatever is planted on their land belongs to them; they should care for and maintain it.
“Let the people know that government is not going to acquire their lands, and that they will not lose a grain of soil as a result of the GGW,’’ she said. ‘’They are the owners of the Programme and they should key into it, start planting trees, avoid cutting down trees and make use of alternative sources of energy such as the green cooking stoves among others.”