By Israel Bulus, Kaduna

The former Executive Chairman of Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Hon. Nasara Rabo, has countered recent allegations of underperformance against the Minister of Environment, Mal. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, asserting that the minister ranks among the top performers in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Nasara was responding to calls for the minister’s removal by the former National Youth Coordinator of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), Mr. Nasiru Jagaba.

He dismissed Nasiru’s claims, arguing that a thorough assessment of the Ministry of Environment’s policies, initiatives, and impact on environmental sustainability tells a different story. He stressed that such calls for removal should be based on facts, not mere opinions.

“Nasiru, who once led SOKAPU’s youth wing, should understand the process of appointing and removing a Minister in Nigeria. The duties and functions of a Minister are clearly outlined in the Nigerian Constitution and the establishment acts of various ministries. Each minister operates based on budgetary provisions and presidential approvals,” he said.

Nasara referenced a recent ministerial performance ranking conducted by Hadiza Usman, Special Assistant to the President on Coordinating Ministries, which highlighted Malam Abbas Lawal’s significant achievements in tackling deforestation, promoting renewable energy, and enforcing environmental protection laws.

“I would advise Nasiru to familiarize himself with the national and international programs and projects spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment before making calls for the Minister’s removal. The minister has introduced innovative initiatives, including waste management reforms and climate resilience strategies, earning widespread recognition from stakeholders and the public,” Nasara added.

He further emphasized that each Minister operates based on an allocated budget and presidential directives, stating, “Key performance indicators such as policy implementation, environmental sustainability efforts, and public impact underscore the Minister’s dedication to addressing pressing ecological challenges.”

In addition to his environmental efforts, Nasara noted that the minister has supported Kaduna State indigenes by sponsoring students in various Universities across the country, covering their tuition fees.

Observers, he said, have commended the Minister’s proactive engagement with international partners, successful acquisition of funding for green projects, and policies that align with global environmental standards. These achievements, he maintained, reinforce the administration’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation.

“As the Ministry of Environment continues to enhance national environmental policies, the Minister’s outstanding performance sets a benchmark for other ministries. His work reaffirms the importance of prioritizing ecological conservation for future generations,” Nasara stated.

He concluded by acknowledging the role of criticism in governance but insisted that Nasiru Jagaba’s claims of underperformance do not align with the ministry’s tangible progress.

“The Minister of Environment has demonstrated commitment to sustainability, policy implementation, and stakeholder engagement, making significant strides despite challenges. Constructive dialogue and continued support will ensure even greater success in environmental Governance,” Nasara said.