Kano State Bans Chainsaws to Protect Forests

As of October 7th, 2025, the Nigerian state of Kano has implemented a new law to protect its natural resources. The law bans the use of chainsaws for cutting, felling, or even trimming down trees.

The state's Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change, Dahir Muhammad Hashim, explained that fines ranging from 250,000 to 500,000 Nigerian naira (approximately $168 to $337) will be enforced for breaking the new law. Enforcement will involve collaboration with security agencies, local authorities, traditional institutions, and community forest monitors.

To better uphold the chainsaw ban and support reforestation efforts, Kano is also introducing a Chainsaw Usage Permit Framework. Commercial chainsaw operators will now need to annually apply for a license to use their machinery, which will only be issued after inspection and verification by forestry officers.

As part of the reforestation plan, each tree removed must be replaced with two to three new saplings. The fees collected from the permits will fund these replanting and climate resilience programs.

Kano's decisive action comes amid growing global concerns over deforestation. Emerging data shows the large-scale impact, with the World Wildlife Fund reporting that up to 15 billion trees are now being cut down every year worldwide. This has led to worsening air quality and the destruction of wildlife habitats.

By implementing these strict measures, Kano aims to set an example and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.