Lukman Abdulmalik
As the world commemorates World Environment Day under the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution,” Kano State has drawn attention to its troubling role in Nigeria’s mounting plastic waste crisis, producing an estimated 30,000 metric tonnes annually.
The alarming figures were revealed during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement held at Tahir Guest Palace, Kano, organized by the Kano State Ministry of Environment in collaboration with UK International Development’s, SFC and PACE.
Dr. Bello Abba Yakasai, a waste management expert, emphasized the global scale of the crisis, noting that the world generates over 400 million tonnes of plastic annually, with Nigeria contributing about 4 million tonnes.
He warned that Kano’s contribution is significant and deeply concerning.
Auwalu Hamza, State Team Lead for PACE, stressed the shared responsibility of combating plastic pollution:
“Mitigating climate change is everyone’s duty. While the government must ensure the right policies and institutions are in place, the private sector and individuals must also play their parts,” he said.
“Plastic pollution directly impacts our health, it’s a reminder that we must work together to make our environment safer and our lives healthier.”
Also speaking at the event, Umar Sani Anka, Director of Climate Change at the Kano State Ministry of Environment, reaffirmed the significance of June 5 as World Environment Day.
He highlighted the urgent need for awareness around plastic pollution and its consequences, especially in the face of increasing environmental disasters like recent floods in Mokwa that claimed over 700 lives.
“We are sitting on a time bomb, and plastic waste is a major contributor,” Anka said.
“Under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Environment Commissioner Dr. Dahir Mohamed Hashim, the state has initiated climate and environmental policy reforms to address these threats.”
He added that Kano’s new climate change policy has been signed into law, and environmental laws are currently being reviewed to incorporate stakeholder input.
In his keynote address, Amb. Dr. Sani Usaini reiterated the theme of the day and emphasized public involvement.
“Plastic waste is everywhere, our drainages are clogged, our streets littered.
“We began this year’s celebration with awareness rallies and tree planting exercises in secondary schools to promote greener living.”
He also highlighted how the workshop showcased practical ways to repurpose plastic waste into useful products, offering both environmental and economic benefits.
The event brought together academics, government officials, private sector actors, and civil society leaders. Participants underscored the importance of education, innovation, and collaboration in tackling plastic pollution.
They advocated for public awareness campaigns promoting reusable alternatives, investment in biodegradable materials, advanced recycling technologies and waste-to-energy solutions
Activities during the event included panel discussions, expert lectures, student debates, and a community plastic tracking initiative, signaling Kano State’s serious commitment to environmental sustainability.
As Kano State faces mounting waste challenges, environmental stakeholders concluded the event with a collective call for citizens to adopt eco-friendly habits, support green legislation, and hold corporations accountable for their environmental impact
This year’s focus on ending plastic pollution could mark a turning point for Kano’s journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
