The Gombe State government says it has planted over five million trees since it started the “Gombe Goes Green” (3G) program in 2019. Officials believe this could make Gombe the top state in Nigeria for tree planting by 2026.
This was shared by Dr. Abubakar Atare Buba, the Chairman of the 3G Task Force and Mai Tula, in an interview with Daily Sun in Gombe. He said since he became the head of the task force in March 2025, efforts to plant trees have increased in all 11 local government areas to go beyond the original target.
“Our aim is not just to meet the government’s goal, but to go beyond it. Local committees are working hard in the communities, and by next year, Gombe will have planted the most trees in Nigeria, God willing,” Dr. Buba said.
The 3G program was started by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya as a long-term plan to fight desertification, deforestation, and the effects of climate change, which threaten farmlands and water sources in the state. Since then, tree-planting campaigns have been held every year with the help of thousands of volunteers.
Dr. Buba said getting local people involved is key to keeping the project going. He explained that people now see the trees as their own and take care of them. “This feeling of ownership is more effective than depending only on the government or paid workers,” he said.
He praised Governor Yahaya for his strong support for the program and thanked local governments and partner groups who have also supported the campaign.
Environmental expert Muaz Abubakar Garba said that with over five million trees planted, Gombe’s 3G project is becoming an example for other northern states dealing with climate change and tree cutting for firewood.
“If the current efforts continue, Gombe could become a national leader in reforestation by 2026,” Muaz said while praising the 3G program.
