Kano stops tree cutting at state TV station after viral video

Kano State Government has issued an immediate directive to cease the indiscriminate cutting of trees within the premises of the state-owned Abubakar Rimi Television (ARTV). This action follows the circulation of a viral video depicting the felling of trees at the facility.

Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, announced the directive during an unscheduled visit to the station on Saturday. He stated that the practice contravenes the state government's environmental protection and climate change policies. Waiya warned that any future decisions to cut trees at the station must secure official approval after thorough consultation with relevant government agencies.

Expressing concern, the commissioner highlighted the serious environmental consequences of depleting natural resources. "I was disturbed by the viral video showing the indiscriminate felling of trees within the premises of ARTV. This action is contrary to the government’s policy on climate change and environmental sustainability," Waiya stated. He emphasized that moving forward, no tree should be cut without obtaining necessary approvals and consulting appropriate government bodies.

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I was disturbed by the viral video showing the indiscriminate felling of trees within the premises of ARTV. This action is contrary to the government’s policy on climate change and environmental sustainability. From now on, no tree should be cut within the station without obtaining the necessary approval and consulting the appropriate government agencies.

Beyond environmental concerns, Waiya also addressed the station's operational performance. Findings indicate ARTV struggles to meet viewer expectations due to outdated content and subpar news production. He noted the station has failed to adapt to the evolving media landscape, which increasingly demands real-time engagement and digital accessibility. "Studies have revealed that the station has fallen short of viewers’ expectations because of stale content and poor-quality news production," he observed.

Waiya believes this situation is inconsistent with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration's vision, which prioritizes digital innovation and modern operational practices across all sectors. He stressed the need for ARTV's management to effectively utilize its budget for transformational projects, staff development, and institutional reforms. The commissioner intends to submit a special report to Governor Yusuf, seeking intervention for a comprehensive upgrade of the television station.

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Studies have revealed that the station has fallen short of viewers’ expectations because of stale content and poor-quality news production. Unlike many modern television stations that provide opportunities for real-time engagement and on-demand viewing, ARTV remains largely conservative and is unable to compete effectively with its counterparts across the country.