The Kano State government has launched an unusual enforcement action by arresting goats accused of eating newly planted tree seedlings under its ambitious Urban Renewal Project.

Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, confirmed in a statement issued on Friday that several goats have already been taken into custody at Zone I of the Nigeria Police Command in Kano.

"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 explained. "This initiative is aimed at reducing heat and air pollution, while also enhancing the beauty of Kano city."

According to the commissioner, the government's greening efforts are being undermined by free-roaming livestock. "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," he said. "I want to make it clear: this will not be tolerated."

The ministry confirmed that enforcement teams are actively monitoring compliance across the city as part of broader environmental protection measures. The impounded goats will remain in police custody as the operation continues.

Dr. Hashim appealed to residents to take responsibility and support the government's environmental initiatives. "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," he added.

The tree-planting initiative forms a critical component of Kano's broader Urban Renewal Project, which aims to modernize the city while addressing environmental challenges including heat islands and air pollution.

Environmental experts have long advocated for increased urban forestry in Nigeria's northern cities, where rising temperatures and desertification pose significant challenges to public health and quality of life.