By ibrahima yakubu
The Head of Communications and Strategy at African Climate Reporters (ACR), alongside a coalition of civil society organizations working on environmental issues, has called on the Kaduna State Government to appoint Mallam Yusuf Idris Amoke as the next Managing Director of the Kaduna Environmental Protection Agency (KEPA).
The recent resignation of KEPA’s Managing Director has created a critical leadership gap in one of the state’s most vital institutions responsible for environmental protection. At this crucial moment, the role of civil society cannot be overstated.
We, the concerned people of Kaduna State, must raise our voices to ensure that the next leader of KEPA is not just a political appointee, but a visionary, competent, and committed individual capable of tackling the pressing environmental and climate challenges facing our communities.
In a joint statement released to the press, coalitions of scientists, geologists, environmental journalists under African Climate Reporters, and other environmental NGOs emphasized that Mallam Yusuf Idris Amoke is the most qualified candidate for this role, based on his consistent track record and commitment to environmental protection.
They stated that it is in the best interest of the state for Governor Uba Sani to consider Yusuf’s appointment, citing his significant contributions to environmental sustainability and climate advocacy.
We therefore urge all civil society organizations, youth groups, environmental advocates, and community leaders to rally behind Mallam Yusuf Idris Amoke, who currently serves as Special Assistant on Climate Change to the Governor, as the next Managing Director of KEPA.
Mallam Yusuf Amoke brings a unique combination of:
Academic expertise: B.Sc. in Geography; Master’s in Climate Change and Economic Policy; and Master’s in Public Policy and Administration.
Policy and grassroots experience: spearheading climate dialogues with CSOs, media, researchers, and community groups across Kaduna State.
Proven initiatives: implementing tree planting campaigns, youth green job programs, and community-based climate resilience projects through his platform, Green Climate Africa.
Commitment to climate justice: consistently amplifying the voices of marginalized communities most affected by environmental degradation.
For too long, environmental agencies in Nigeria have been viewed as mere bureaucratic institutions. This is a pivotal moment for civil society to demand a transformative leader who will reposition KEPA as a proactive engine of climate action and sustainable development in Kaduna State.
We therefore call on CSOs, youth organizations, development partners, and concerned citizens across Kaduna and beyond to publicly endorse Mallam Yusuf Idris Amoke’s candidacy. We urge His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, to make a bold, future-focused decision by appointing him as the new Managing Director of KEPA.
This is more than just an appointment — it is a defining moment for the future of our environment, our health, and the well-being of future generations.
