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In a bid to combat environmental degradation and promote public health, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State in Nigeria has taken a significant step by signing two executive orders. The first order bans the indiscriminate felling of trees, while the second mandates a monthly statewide environmental sanitation exercise. These orders, signed at the Government House in Maiduguri, are part of a broader effort to tackle severe environmental abuse, particularly the unchecked cutting of trees, which poses significant risks to the ecosystem and future generations.

Governor Zulum has grounded his action in the legal framework, citing sections 14(2) and 20 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended. By invoking the Felling of Tree Law, he has officially prohibited tree felling with immediate effect. This move is not without teeth, as violators face a fine of N250,000 or up to three years in prison for a first offense, with repeat offenders risking N500,000 in fines or five years in jail.

The second executive order declares the first Saturday of every month as Sanitation Day, aiming to improve hygiene and prevent disease across Borno communities. Those who flout this order may be fined N100,000 or face up to two years in prison for a first offense, with repeat offenders potentially facing up to five years in prison. The governor has also empowered the Sanitation Court to enforce this order more effectively across the state.

In addition to these measures, Governor Zulum has announced plans to introduce a third executive order targeting illegal activities related to scrap metal scavenging and trading. He has instructed the Police Command and other enforcement agencies to ensure full compliance with all executive orders, underlining the seriousness of his commitment to environmental protection and public health.

These actions reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing environmental challenges in Borno State, recognizing the intricate link between environmental health and the well-being of the population. By taking such decisive steps, Governor Zulum is not only acting to mitigate current environmental issues but is also looking to the future, seeking to ensure a healthier, more sustainable environment for generations to come. The move is a significant step towards promoting environmental stewardship and highlights the importance of proactive governance in addressing environmental degradation.