By Sani Idris Abdulrahman

The Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, has been conferred with the honorary title of “Climate Ambassador” by Bridge That Gap (BTG) Hope for Africa Initiative, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to environmental sustainability.

The conferment took place during an advocacy visit to the Emir’s palace on Wednesday as part of activities introducing the Women Empowerment and Climate Resilience Initiative (WECRI).

The project, funded by the UK Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) under the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) Programme, aimed at empowering women for economic growth while addressing the challenges of climate change in Kaduna State.

Speaking during the visit, Zinta Istifanus, Program Officer at BTG, said the conferment is in recognition of the commitment of His Highness in building sustainable communities.

“Acknowledging your efforts and commitment on Climate change issues and the development of your kingdom, we wish to confer on you the Climate Ambassador title”.

In his remarks, the Emir expressed delight for being named Climate Ambassador.

He said “Climate change and deforestation are urgent issues affecting Zaria’s historic environment, including the centuries-old city walls”,

He pledged the Emirate’s support and directed District Heads to identify strategic areas for the tree planting initiative by BTG.

The WECRI project, implemented by BTG in collaboration with the Network of Civil Society in Environment (NCSE), is a six-month pilot that would focus on vulnerable communities across the three Senatorial Zones of the state.

It seeks to foster economic resilience and create an inclusive governance framework that amplifies women’s voices, ultimately contributing to economic growth and sustainable future for Kaduna State.