By Faridat Salifu
Kogi State government has accelerated efforts at boosting agricultural productivity across the state by adopting the Agro-climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative.
The governor of the state, Yahaya Ododo, speaking through the the Chairman of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Zacchaeus Dare Michael, said recently that the adoption of the initiative is also aimed at improving environmental sustainability, which would boost the required agro-climatic resilience.
Speaking while the state’s ACReSAL project delegation, led by its task team leader, Dr Joy Iganya Agene, visited Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Governor Ododo said the project now formed a pivotal component of Kogi’s environmental strategy.
Receiving the delegation, the Chairman of the LGA, Zacchaeus Dare Michael, described the initiative as“essential not just for agricultural advancement, but also for fostering sustainable environmental management across our state.”
He highlighted the profound impact of the ACReSAL project on agricultural productivity and the enhancement of local livelihoods, particularly in semi-arid regions.
The leader of the delegation, Dr. Agene appreciated the state government for its proactive efforts, praising the government for the prompt allocation and use of funds for essential studies and the initial phases of the project.
She said that ACReSAL plays a crucial role in mitigating environmental challenges heightened by urban growth.
“The ACReSAL project is integral to our mission of bolstering environmental resilience and sustainability as Kogi advances,” Dr. Agene stated, underscoring its importance in fostering long-term resilience for rural and semi-urban communities grappling with environmental issues.
The delegation expressed optimism about the state’s strategy and called for ongoing collaboration among local institutions and communities to achieve the project’s goals.
