Katsina State Governor **[Dikko Umar Radda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dikko_Umar_Radda)** announced on Thursday the launch of an ambitious tree‑planting campaign that targets the planting of 11 million trees across the state by 2031, with the goal of mitigating desertification, improving soil health and enhancing agricultural productivity.
The initiative, branded **Katsina One Tree per Person (KT‑1T)**, will be implemented in every one of the state’s 34 local government areas. The first phase aims to plant two million saplings by the end of 2026, and the governor urged every resident to take part, emphasizing that tree‑planting and tree‑care must become a collective responsibility.
What does the KT‑1T programme entail?
KT‑1T is designed to restore degraded land, curb erosion and wind damage, enrich soil fertility and ultimately raise farm yields and farmer incomes. The plan also includes the creation of community nurseries, training for local youths on seedling management and a monitoring system to track tree survival rates.
Why is the campaign critical for Katsina?
Katsina State lies within Nigeria’s Sahelian zone, where shifting rainfall patterns and advancing desert sands threaten the livelihoods of millions of farmers. By increasing tree cover, the state hopes to create windbreaks, retain moisture and provide a buffer against further land degradation.
"Planting trees is not just an environmental activity; it is an investment in our people’s future and food security," Governor Radda said during the launch ceremony. He called on traditional rulers, farmers, community leaders and other stakeholders to support the effort, noting that the survival of the seedlings is as important as meeting planting targets.
Who is backing the effort?
Representing the Federal Ministry of Environment, **[Mallam Balarabe Abbas](https://greenwallagency.gov.ng)**, Director‑General of the Greenwall Agency, affirmed that the federal government would encourage other states to adopt similar programmes. Abbas warned that many past tree‑planting drives faltered due to poor seedling maintenance, weak monitoring and limited community involvement.
What challenges have previous campaigns faced?
Abbas highlighted that inadequate after‑care led to high mortality rates for young trees. He stressed the need for continuous protection of saplings, replacement of dead stock and sustained monitoring to achieve lasting impact.
How will the state ensure long‑term success?
Special Adviser on Climate Change, **Professor Al’amin Mohammed**, praised the governor’s commitment, stating that the state’s climate institutions—including the newly formed **[State Climate Change Council (SCCC)](https://katsinastate.gov.ng/climate-change-council)**—will coordinate efforts, provide technical guidance and mobilise resources for the programme.
The launch comes amid growing concerns over desertification, land degradation and erratic rainfall that are jeopardising farming and rural livelihoods throughout northern Nigeria. Achieving the 11‑million‑tree target will depend on sustained public participation, effective monitoring and a concerted effort to ensure that planted trees survive and thrive.
The success of Katsina’s KT‑1T drive could serve as a model for other Nigerian states seeking to combat environmental degradation while bolstering food security and rural economies.