In an unusual turn of events, the Kano State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has begun impounding goats for damaging newly planted trees under the state’s Urban Renewal Project.
The Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, confirmed the action in a statement issued on Friday, noting that several goats had already been taken into custody at Zone I of the Nigeria Police Command, Kano, for eating seedlings planted along major roads.
“As part of our ongoing Urban Renewal Project, we’ve begun planting trees along major roads, starting with Lodge Road and Race Course,” Dr. Hashim stated. “This initiative is aimed at reducing heat and air pollution, while also enhancing the beauty of Kano city.”
However, the effort has faced an unexpected setback—free-roaming goats.
“We’ve received complaints that some residents are allowing their goats to roam freely, and these animals are damaging the young trees we’ve just planted,” the commissioner explained. “I want to make it clear: this will not be tolerated. We have already impounded several goats found eating the new trees.”
The ministry said the goats are being held at Zone I of the Nigeria Police Command as officials continue to monitor compliance.
Dr. Hashim appealed to residents to support the effort: “We’re calling on the public to work with us to protect these efforts. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful Kano.”
