The Kogi State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has concluded a three-day inspection of its intervention sites across the state, reaffirming the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community development.
Leading the inspection team was the Hon. Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Oluwasegun Joseph, who also serves as the Chairman of the State Steering Committee (SSC). The team, comprising members of both the SSC and the State Technical Committee (STC), visited various project sites including water harvesting systems, community resilience facilities (CRF), and agro-forestry initiatives in Okene, Ankpa, and Kabba Local Government Areas.
Engr. Joseph lauded the quality and pace of work at the sites, particularly the gully erosion control interventions, and praised the project’s strict adherence to standards. He reiterated the Kogi State Government’s dedication to improving livelihoods through impactful initiatives such as ACReSAL, describing the project as “a testament to the government’s commitment to the people.”
Engr. Faruk Danladi, Commissioner for Water Resources and Co-Chairman of the SSC, also expressed satisfaction with the visible progress at the sites, noting that achievements in the three LGAs had exceeded expectations.
The inspection included reforestation zones and other locations benefiting from the water harvesting and CRF components of the ACReSAL project.
Speaking during the visit, the Kogi ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto, OON, appreciated Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his unwavering support, which she said has been crucial to the project’s success. She also thanked the World Bank and the national ACReSAL team for their continuous guidance. According to her, the project is focused on “land restoration, livelihood enhancement, and food security.”
The site inspections reflect the state government’s proactive monitoring and evaluation approach to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency in project implementation.
The ACReSAL Project, backed by the World Bank, aims to bolster community resilience to climate change, boost agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable land management across Kogi State.