FG Calls on Nigerians to Cultivate Bamboo

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to embrace the cultivation of bamboo in the country to combat climate change.

The call by the Federal Government came even as the Chinese Government through the Chinese Chamber of Commerce said it was poised to improve the usage of bamboo in Nigeria through the establishment of a bamboo industry in the country.

Speaking at the commemoration of the 2023 World Bamboo Day in Abuja with the theme ‘Environmental Restoration and Job Creation’’, the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, said in building on the outcomes of COP28 – Global Climate Summit – recently concluded in Dubai, UAE, the ministry is taking a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Nigerians.

He noted that one of the steps to be taken by the ministry is promoting bamboo cultivation and utilisation in the country.

The minister said: “Not only does it (bamboo cultivation) contribute to the preservation of our environment, it also offers opportunities for economic growth and poverty alleviation.

“Its diverse applications in different sectors of the economy make it a valuable resource for job creation and income generation.”

He noted that the bamboo’s rapid growth, strength, and adaptability make it an ideal solution for sustainable development and resource management, adding that: “Bamboo plays a crucial role in combating climate change. Its ability to sequester carbon dioxide and release oxygen surpasses that of many other plant species.

“As the whole world grapples with the menace of climate change and its attendant impacts, we are by this event, reminded of the immense potential this plant holds in addressing some of these pressing challenges.

“Bamboo, often referred to as the ‘green gold’, has been an integral part of our culture and heritage for centuries.”

According to him, “It has proven to be a true gift of nature considering its versatility and numerous environmental and economic benefits.”

The minister also said with shorter gestation period, bamboo boasts of shared and greater environmental and socio-economic potential including for construction and as industrial raw materials.

Lawal said: “Currently, the first bamboo processing factory is being established in Karara, Kogi State with the objective to bolster local content development in the production of bamboo toothpicks and other products in the short and long terms.”

Earlier, in an opening remark, the Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Lawrence Adigwe, said that promoting bamboo cultivation will enhance biodiversity, adding that: “It is one of the fastest-growing plants on earth and capable of reaching maturity within a few years.

“This is a feature that makes it an excellent tool in combating deforestation through reforestation and afforestation.

“Bamboo products is steadily increasing, providing opportunities for economic growth, job creation and poverty alleviation, particularly in rural areas where bamboo is abundantly available.”

The representative from Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Gene Zhang, said they were poised to improve the usage of bamboo in Nigeria through the establishment of a bamboo industry in the country.

He said: “China can lend helping hands on how to set up bamboo industry in Nigeria.”