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Kano Zoological Garden: A Place Where Animals Complain And The Trees Are Silent

Published

4 years ago

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Kano Zoological Garden

 

By Musa MAZAN KWARAI

 

Who did the animals at Kano Zoo told they’re not comfortable there? What about Trees? Did they also complain? There is no place in the whole of Kano city that has a high density of vegetation as the Kano Zoological garden. One of the numerous beauties nature has blessed us with is a vegetal cover, comprising of trees, shrubs, and grasses which are very much important and necessary for life. Vegetation, especially trees are important to man and his environment in a variety of ways.

 

Carbon dioxide is one of the major greenhouse gases that is, when injected into the atmosphere makes it possible for shortwave electromagnetic radiation to reach the surface of the earth but traps the longwave (terrestrial) radiation from escaping to the sky thereby making the earth surface hot, a phenomenon referred to as GLOBAL WARMING. Trees are very good at sequestering the ocean of carbon dioxide we inject into the atmosphere which are responsible for making the earth surface relatively hotter than it should be

We were taught in our elementary science that green plants use carbon dioxide and give us oxygen during photosynthesis. This is a pointer to the importance of vegetal cover to us and our environment. That is to say, trees are blessings to us because of the roles they play in reducing the ocean of carbon dioxide we inject as a result of urbanization and industrialization. In environmental science, humans are advised to reduce the level of carbon dioxide emission to the atmosphere through a variety of processes such as the adoption of clean sources of energy for our vehicles, domestic and industries, for example, the use of biofuels, use of solar, wind and hydro energy. In addition to this, reduced deforestation and massive tree plantings are always advocated.

It was estimated that carbon dioxide level has increased from 288ppm (parts per million) to 382ppm from the pre-industrial period to 2006 worldwide and this is forecast to skyrocket as long as humans live on the planet earth, however, with better practices, the menace can be managed as contained in many UN protocols and treaties such as Montreal and Kyoto protocols.

Another beauty of vegetation does not stop at aesthetic beautification of the environment and purification of the earth’s atmosphere from harmful effects of pollutants but is also one of the major contributors to the hydrological cycle.

Relocation Of Kano Zoological Garden: Decimating The City’s Air Purification

Vegetation contributes to a high percentage of water molecules through the process of transpiration and or evapotranspiration. This helps in transferring water molecules from vegetation through the stomata in their leaves to the sky. These water molecules converge with other molecules from other phenomena such as evaporation from water bodies (lakes, oceans, seas, rivers), condense and form precipitation in any of it forms (rain, snow, hail, drizzle) as the case may be which later ends as surface or underground water. The process goes on and on; hydrological cycle.

Another role of vegetation has to do with the moderating effects of the water molecules (from transpiration)  to the immediate environment is adding to cloud content (mostly water molecules).

 

The major content of cloud cover, water droplets comes from the vegetal cover as pointed earlier. There is always a moderating effect in an environment with lust vegetation when compared to another environment that is devoid of vegetation. These droplets inform of, moderate the effects of sunlight (short wave radiation) from penetrating the atmosphere, thereby making the surface cooler than it should during the day time when radiation is more active and in turns trap the outgoing longwave (terrestrial radiation) from escaping, there by moderating the low night temperatures (nights are always colder due to the fact that all the supposed energy that entered into the earth must have escaped to the sky- heat lost). This is very much practical if someone compares two environments; one with lush vegetal cover with another one that is devoid of vegetation. This is the case if we take for example the thick forests of southern Nigeria and its northern counterpart especially as one approaches the Niger republic. The same applies to the southern tip of Kano along Riruwai in Doguwa local government and Kano city.

 

One can go on and on to downscale these examples to a local level; say looking at Kano city (where there are very little trees) and the outskirt of the city such as places like APCU quarters, Janbulo, BUK new and old campus, FCE Kano and many other places especially government ministries within Kano.

With the above benefits of vegetation and the fact that the Kano Zoo is one of the few places that has a high density of trees standing for decades, we should be very careful and at the same time trade with cautions when taking any decision concerning this important place. The Ministry of Environment should at this juncture guide our decision and policymakers on the danger of destroying our vegetation.

It did not come to me as a surprise when I first heard of the news that the Kano Zoo will be relocated due to some reason. My worry was the justification given by the government side that; the animals are not comfortable with the sound of human activities within the environment.

 

How can any human give such a justification for relocating the garden that has been in the same place for decades, something every citizen of Kano has right over. Even if they find it deem to do that, they need to provide more concrete reasons and conduct public opinion to do that.

 

The issue of Kano Zoo is never the same as that of Triumph publishing company, Daula Hotel and many other public landed properties sold by the Kano state government because of this concerns all of us and the environment itself.

A Zoologist friend of mine during a conversation said; Musa so all you care about is the trees in the Zoo, not even the animals? I smiled and said to him the animals are mobile and would be fine everywhere they are relocated to, especially the Tiga/Bagauda axis (although the state government will experience a decline in revenue due to proximity) as I heard but what about the trees standing there for decades and the ecosystem services they provide? Can they be relocated as well? Definitely, if we allow this to happen, the Zoo land would be converted to commercial or residential land which means all the trees will be cut down thereby losing all the benefits they serve to us and the environment.

The Kano Zoo is one, if not the only decent public garden left for us the ‘Talakawas’ to enjoy. My very big question to those that want to sell off the Kano Zoo for whatsoever reason is; can they relocate the animals and leave the garden with the beautiful trees most of which are indigenous for us since I understand their compassion for animals?

 

Lastly, I am appealing to the executive governor of Kano to please in the name of Almighty Allah to look into the yearnings people that have written on this matter. We are good citizens of Kano and we understand that the idea to convert this important place may not necessarily be his but he has the veto power to stop any policy that can harm his people. I believe that some potential benefactors wrote you a memo on this idea. Please listen to us not them on this and Insha Allah you’ll not regret it.

 

Musa Mazankwarai,  Mazan Kwarai Quarters, Kano (eltankomusa@yahoo.com)

 

 

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Opinion

Let President Tinubu Rename University of Lagos After Gowon, Not Abuja

Published

5 days ago

on

December 18, 2024

By

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

 

 

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

I was not happy when Northwest University Kano was renamed to Yusuf Maitama Sule University, as student leaders of that University then, we followed the interest of the students who were also not happy with the renaming at that time for one reason; the renaming was politically motivated, to hurt the founder of the institution Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. I was busy mobilising students to protest, the next day I was invited to the DSS for questions where I spent hours and all the people we were mobilising the protest together ran and dissociated themselves from it. I have no option but to plead with the DSS to release me, assuring them that not a single student would protest the government’s action.

The renaming has affected many students who are seeking admission abroad; it’s Northwest University on my transcript and Yusuf Maitama Sule University on my certificate. This is kinda confusing and not good at all.

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Politicians should immortalise individuals in their new projects not existing ones. The renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University is not good for the university’s alumni.

The President should have found a new project or built a new University by naming it after the former Head of State.

I don’t support the idea of playing politics by renaming our universities and this happens mostly in Nigeria.

Imagine waking up renaming the University of Maiduguri to Mohammed Goni University, Yobe State University to Ibrahim Geidam University, the University of Ibadan to Abiola Ajimobi University, the University of Lagos to Lateef Jakande University.

It will be bad for the alumni of the aforementioned universities to come across this.

Why is this only happening in Africa? Look at Makerere University in Uganda, it was established in 1920 but despite Yoweri Mosevenni’s long reign; he didn’t for once attempt to change it to even his name for selfish reasons.

He didn’t think of renaming the Entebbe International Airport after him but in Nigeria, we have this culture of renaming everything after individuals.

If you want to be immortalised, leave a lasting legacy as Gowon did in establishing NYSC. That enough is Okay and better than naming an institution after him.

President Tinubu should have renamed the University of Lagos after Gowon, not Abuja. I’m sure his people will reject this not for any reason but because of the large number of people that will be affected by it.

The University of Abuja Alumni were all crying over this painful decision.

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Opinion

Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya: Champion of Civil Society and Good Governance in Northern Nigeria

Published

6 days ago

on

December 16, 2024

By

 

Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, is an influential Civil Society figure in Kano State and Northern Nigeria. He is currently serving as the Executive Director, Citizens for Development and Education (CDE), he has dedicated many years of his civil society activism as advocate for the promotion of democracy, good governance, anti-corruption, peace building and women empowerment

Amb. Waiya, holds number of academic qualifications, including a Higher National Diploma in Public Administration from Kano State Polytechnic, a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, Master’s in Public International Law at Maryam Abacha, American University, Maradi, and he is currently pursuing a doctor of philosophy at Skyline University, Kano in International Relations

In the course of his career, he held several positions and managed a number of projects. He served as the Director, Alhilal Foundation, from 2003 to 2007, an organization which focused on women empowerment, through basic literacy and skills acquisition. He later coordinated the North West Zonal Office of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Foundation. Amb. Ibrahim Waiya, led and coordinated a number of Local Government Councils Elections Observation missions across 19 Northern states.

In 2011, Waiya managed the Campaign against Drug Abuse under the auspices of Northern Youth Assembly, a youth driven platform with leadership structures in the Nineteen Northern States. He served as Secretary, for both, Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign and Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Child Abuse, a project which was coordinated by the office of the Special Adviser, Child Welfare and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. His involvement in election observation coordination missions and various public engagements, highlights his commitment to civic engagement towards community development, democracy and good governance

Waiya’s extensive experience includes free consultancy support services to numerous Government Ministries and Agencies such as: Kano State Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Development, Kano State Ministry for Community and Rural Development, office of the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Child Welfare, Ministry for Special duties, office of the special adviser, joint security services. He has facilitated numerous training workshops and seminars, impacting his knowledge, skills, experience on the community, particularly for community based organizations

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In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed to several key positions, such as the President, of the Kano Civil Society Forum, Chairman of the Conference of Northern States Civil Society Networks, Convener, Nigeria for Peace Project, Managing partner, United Nigeria Project, Head of Secretariat, Kano Peace Committee, Secretary General, National Action for Women Agenda,(NAWA), chairman, Board of Trustees, Northern Youth Assembly, (Majalisar Matasan Arewa) Fellow, Institute of Security and Strategic Studies, Fellow, Institute of International Peace and Secure Society, Fellow, Institute of Business Diplomacy and Financial Management, member, Commission of Inquiry on Missing persons, member, Implementation Committee, on the Recommendations of the Report of the Commission of inquiry on missing persons, member, Commission of Inquiry to investigate, various political violence and cases of missing persons, that occurred in the State from 2015 – 2023, member, Commission of inquiry to investigate protest, arson and destruction of public and private properties that occurred from 1st – 10th August, 2024 Amb. Waiya, served as Consultant on various government projects, such as: Kano State Security Trust Fund, Safe Corridor, Campaign against Drug Abuse, across the 44 Local Government Council Areas. Amb. Waiya”s active participation in peace building, policy advocacy and legislative reform has continued to impact positive change in Kano State, the North and Nigeria at large.

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Opinion

“I Transition to PR and Digital Marketing to Transform Brands Globally” – Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah

Published

1 week ago

on

December 15, 2024

By

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As 2024 comes to a close, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah reflects on his journey from journalism to public relations (PR) and digital marketing. With over a decade of experience in media and communications, Ibrahim’s transition was fueled by a desire to empower businesses—starting with Northern Nigeria but extending globally—to build impactful narratives and achieve sustainable growth.

“Every brand, regardless of location, deserves access to the tools and expertise needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced world,” Ibrahim says. “My goal has always been to bridge the gap in strategic communication, ensuring that no business is left behind.”

From Journalism to Strategic Communication

Ibrahim’s illustrious journalism career spans over a decade, during which he served as a Senior Reporter at TVC News, covering critical developments, including the Kano State Government House for three successive administrations. His work involved breaking major news stories, producing multimedia content, and engaging audiences through digital platforms.

“I’ve always been passionate about communication, but I realized I wanted to do more than report stories—I wanted to help brands craft their own,” Ibrahim shares. “That’s what led me to pivot into PR and digital marketing.”

To equip himself for this new journey, Ibrahim pursued advanced studies, earning a Master’s in Communication Studies and a Master’s in Public Relations from Bayero University, Kano. He further honed his expertise with a Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing from the London School of Business Administration and a Master Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Digital Marketing Skills Institute. These credentials underscore his commitment to mastering the art of strategic communication.

Empowering Brands Through Ayrah Media Concept

As the CEO of Ayrah Media Concept (AMC), Ibrahim leads a PR and creative agency that provides businesses with tailored solutions, including PR consulting, social media management, corporate campaigns, and digital marketing.

“My vision is to empower brands to connect with their audiences, tell compelling stories, and achieve global relevance,” Ibrahim explains. “Through AMC, we’re showing businesses—whether in Northern Nigeria or beyond—that they can reach new heights with the right strategies.”

In 2024, AMC worked on several impactful campaigns, including Ibrahim’s role as a Lead Consultant for the WOFAN-ICON2 project in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, where he developed and executed PR and communication strategies to amplify the project’s impact.

Changing Perceptions and Building Bridges

Transitioning into PR and digital marketing came with challenges, including shifting perceptions about its value.

“Many businesses see PR and digital marketing as optional rather than essential,” Ibrahim says. “But the results are transformative. Strategic communication is not just about visibility; it’s about building trust, credibility, and lasting connections with your audience.”

This philosophy drives Ibrahim’s approach, ensuring that businesses of all sizes—whether local startups or established corporations—can access high-quality PR and marketing services.

Looking Ahead

Ibrahim’s vision for the future extends far beyond regional boundaries. While his roots and passion lie in Northern Nigeria, his focus is on creating strategies that resonate globally.

“Brands in Kano, Lagos, Abuja, or even New York share a common goal: to connect with people and make an impact,” he says. “My mission is to ensure that every business, regardless of size or location, has the tools and strategies to achieve that.”

In 2025, Ibrahim plans to document his professional journey in a book that will explore his experiences as a journalist and PR expert, offering insights into the evolving landscape of communication and its role in business success.

A Message of Gratitude

As he reflects on the year, Ibrahim expresses his gratitude to those who have supported his journey. “I’m incredibly thankful to my mentors, collaborators, and clients who have believed in my vision. Together, we’ve shown that impactful communication has the power to transform lives and businesses.”

With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah is poised to lead the way in redefining PR and digital marketing, not just in Nigeria but across the globe.

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