The measure, introduced through the newly launched Chainsaw Usage Permit Framework (CUPF), aims to protect the environment, safeguard community livelihoods, and promote sustainable forestry practices amid growing concerns over deforestation in the region.

The announcement came during a press briefing at the Ministry for Local Government Conference Hall, where Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, the state’s Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, outlined the policy’s details. 

“This action is necessary to protect our environment from indiscriminate deforestation, safeguard community livelihoods, and ensure the sustainability of our natural resources,” Hashim stated. 

He stressed the importance of enforcement, declaring, “We are no longer tolerating the indiscriminate felling of trees. If you cut one, you must plant two or three.”Under the CUPF, chainsaw operators must now obtain permits before engaging in any trimming or felling activities. 

The framework includes two categories: CUPF-A for commercial operators, which requires annual renewal and official marking of chainsaws, and CUPF-B for specific tree felling or trimming permits issued after inspection by forestry officers. 

A digital registry with QR codes will enable real-time verification of licenses. The policy is grounded in Section 20 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Act of 2007, and the National Environmental Regulations of 2014, aligning with the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) under international climate agreements.

Enforcement will involve collaboration with security agencies, traditional rulers, and community forest monitors. Violators face severe penalties, including fines of up to ₦500,000 for unlicensed chainsaw operation, potential imprisonment, and confiscation of equipment. For unauthorized tree felling, penalties include a ₦250,000 fine per tree, mandatory replanting, and equipment seizure. 

Revenue from permit fees will fund reforestation and climate resilience initiatives.Hashim urged widespread compliance, calling on chainsaw operators, businesses, institutions, and individuals to register and secure permits. 

He also appealed to community leaders, including imams, pastors, traditional rulers, school authorities, and local government chairmen, to educate residents and monitor gazetted forest reserves. 

“We expect schools to stop unauthorized cutting of trees, and for Local Government Chairmen to protect gazetted reserves,” he said. “Imams, pastors, and traditional leaders must educate their people about the consequences of environmental degradation.”