Borno launches cooking gas distribution to 21,000 teachers

From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri

Borno State government has commenced distribution of cooking gas cylinders, accessories and financial support to 21,000 primary school teachers across the state.

Governor Babagana Zulum announced this yesterday in Maiduguri at the 2026 National Tree Planting Campaign and distribution of cooking gas cylinders to the low income earners in the state.

“The 5,000 cylinders being distributed today is just a flag-off. All the 21,000 primary school teachers will benefit. They are making a lot of sacrifices and we need to support not only to discourage the use of fire wood and tree falling but also to improve health,” he explained.

He presented a dummy cheque of N112.5 million to the beneficiaries. He said each of the teachers would be given a coupon to refill the cylinder at designated gas stations.

He also distributed the gas cylinders to 2,500 staff of the Borno State Environmental Protection Agency (BOSEPA).

The governor said the event was more than a ceremonial exercise of planting trees. He described it as a solemn declaration of collective commitment to safeguarding the environment, protecting future generations and sustainable development.

He said trees remain one of God’s greatest blessings to mankind.

“They purify the air we breathe, protect our soils from erosion, preserve biodiversity, moderate climate, provide livelihoods and shield our communities from the devastating effects of desertification and climate change,” he disclosed.

Zulum said his administration firmly believes that environmental restoration must remain an integral component of the rebuilding and recovery agenda.

He stressed the need for the federal and the state governments’ collaboration for the enforcement of laws to protect the environment.

Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas Lawal commended Zulum for his environmental friendly initiative. He said the distribution of gas cylinders and financial support to low income earners was novel. He said it would help in the reduction of tree cutting.