FUGA and NEAZDP Deepen Partnership on Environmental Sustainability

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Gashua, FUGA, Professor Yaqub Ahmed Geidam, has called for deeper collaboration between the university and the North East Arid Zone Development Programme, NEAZDP, to promote environmental sustainability and combat desertification in Yobe State.

He made the call during a visit to NEAZDP, where he led a delegation of principal officers and members of the FUGA Green Code Committee to formally present an invitation to the agency for the launching of the FUGA Green Code scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026.

Professor Geidam said the Green Code was designed to inculcate environmental responsibility among students and staff. He commended NEAZDP for being the first organisation to support the initiative with the donation of 1,000 tree seedlings.

He also appreciated the agency’s support for the development of a shelterbelt plantation at the university and called for the expansion of tree-planting activities across Local Government Areas of Yobe State.

The Vice-Chancellor further called for expanded collaboration in research, training and community engagement. He said FUGA could provide experts as resource persons for training programmes, research and technical activities, while the partnership would create opportunities for community-based environmental interventions.

Earlier, the NEAZDP Programme Manager, Dr. Mulima Idi Mato, said the agency had commenced activities on the site handed over by the university for the shelterbelt plantation, with perimeter fencing nearing completion. He however urged the university to develop plans for nurturing and maintaining the plantation beyond the rainy season, stressing the need for a special watering system, including the use of small water trucks.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the FUGA Green Code Committee, Professor James Ishaku Dantata, appreciated NEAZDP for its support, particularly the donation of the 1,000 seedlings. He described the partnership as important to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development in the region.

A highlight of the visit was a tour of the NEAZDP library and nursery, where the delegation was briefed on the agency’s activities.

Accompanying the Vice-Chancellor during the visit were the Registrar, Dr. Abubakar Mamuda; the Bursar, Mallam Muhammad Ahmed Ali; the Director of Works, Engr. Adamu Janga; and other members of the FUGA Green Code Committee.