By Ehinome Agbon, Idon, Kajuru, Kaduna State
…Idon Community Battles the Impact of Charcoal Production
Residents of Idon community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State are expressing growing concern over the environmental damage caused by charcoal production, their main source of livelihood.
Their plight gained attention during a three-day Climate Journalism Training held in Kaduna from October 21 to 23, 2025, where journalists visited the community to observe firsthand the effects of deforestation and climate change.
The training, themed “Amplifying Climate Resilience Through Ethical and Impactful Radio Reporting,” was organized by PACE in partnership with UK International Development and Bridge That Gap.
Livelihoods at the Expense of the Environment
For many families in Idon, charcoal burning remains a vital means of survival. Yet, the practice has led to widespread tree felling, soil erosion, and changing weather patterns, threatening both farmlands and food security.
“We know it’s affecting our land and the rains are no longer coming as before,” said one resident. “But without charcoal, many families will have nothing to eat.”
Community members appealed for government and NGO intervention, calling for alternative livelihoods such as small-scale farming, renewable energy initiatives, and vocational support to reduce dependence on forest resources.
Government Moves to Restore Forest Cover
During the visit, Mr. Godwin J. Michael, Assistant Director of Forest Resources at the Kaduna State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, said the government is intensifying efforts to curb deforestation through the Keep Kaduna Green (KKG) project.
He noted that over four million trees were planted between 2016 and 2019, but insecurity and illegal logging continue to hamper progress.
“Most of the charcoal entering Kaduna comes from neighboring states,” Mr. Michael explained. “We’ve set up checkpoints and a joint task force with security agencies to monitor forest activities. Confiscated charcoal is auctioned, and proceeds go to the state government.”
Journalists as Drivers of Climate Action
Facilitators at the workshop emphasized the need for ethical and data-driven reporting on climate change. One of them, Enene Ejembi, said empowering journalists to tell compelling climate stories can influence policies and inspire public action.
“By telling the right stories, journalists can connect the dots between livelihood struggles, environmental loss, and climate change — and help communities find sustainable solutions,” she said.
A Call for Partnership and Sustainability
The workshop ended with a call for stronger collaboration among journalists, policymakers, environmental experts, and communities to promote sustainable development and climate resilience.
Participants agreed that consistent, fact-based reporting can drive awareness and accountability while amplifying voices from vulnerable communities like Idon.
