Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum, has signed two new executive orders aimed at strengthening environmental protection and public health across the state.
The first order, signed at the Government House in Maiduguri, prohibits the indiscriminate felling of trees.
The second mandates a monthly statewide sanitation exercise, scheduled for the first Saturday of every month.
Gov. Zulum said the new directives were prompted by the growing environmental degradation in the state, particularly the rampant cutting of trees.
Citing relevant constitutional and state laws, the governor declared that felling of trees is now illegal across Borno State.
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“Any individual caught unlawfully cutting down trees shall, for a first offence, face a fine of N250,000 or up to three years’ imprisonment,” Gov. Zulum stated. “Repeat offenders risk up to five years in prison or a fine of N500,000, or both.”
On sanitation, Gov. Zulum emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean environment to reduce disease and promote public well-being.
He granted additional powers to the sanitation court and made participation in the monthly clean-up exercise compulsory.
“Violators of the sanitation order will face a fine of N100,000 or up to two years’ imprisonment for a first offence,” he said.
“Subsequent offences carry stiffer penalties, including up to five years in prison.”
Gov. Zulum also revealed plans to sign another executive order targeting violations related to scrap metal scavenging and trading.
He directed the Borno State Police Command and other enforcement agencies to ensure strict compliance with the new environmental and public health regulations.
