By Abdullahi Lukman
The Federal Ministry of Environment has reaffirmed its commitment to ecological restoration and climate resilience in Northern Nigeria.
At a stakeholder meeting held in Sokoto on Monday, Abdulhamid Umar, the National Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, highlighted the Federal Government’s determination to combat environmental degradation and climate change impacts in the region.
Umar explained that ACReSAL is a six-year project supported by the World Bank, focused on restoring degraded landscapes, enhancing environmental sustainability, and improving agricultural productivity in Northern Nigeria.
He pointed out several challenges facing the region, including poverty, low literacy, environmental vulnerability, resource degradation, and the increasing risks of desertification and water scarcity.
To address these issues, Umar emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach, with the Federal Ministry of Environment leading the project in collaboration with the Ministries of Water Resources and Agriculture and Rural Development.
The project employs a multi-institutional framework that integrates environmental restoration, water management, and sustainable agriculture practices, all aimed at fostering landscape resilience.
The initiative targets desertification control, land restoration, and ecosystem protection, focusing on improving water access for agriculture and supporting rural farmers’ livelihoods.
ACReSAL aims to increase the use of sustainable landscape management practices in key watersheds, ultimately improving food security and economic opportunities across the region.
Ibrahim Umar, the Sokoto State ACReSAL Project Coordinator, urged stakeholders to use the engagement as a platform for driving positive change in their communities.
He also reminded participants that the project covers all 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Sokoto State’s Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Nura Tangaza, praised the federal government’s commitment and assured full support for the project’s objectives.
The meeting gathered participants from Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, and Niger states, including community leaders, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders.
With ongoing discussions, stakeholders remain hopeful that ACReSAL’s interventions will strengthen environmental sustainability, boost food production, and improve climate adaptation efforts throughout Northern Nigeria.
