By Abbas Nazil
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, has praised the state coordinator of Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Mrs. Ladi Ahmed Jatto, for effective delivery of the Agency’s mandate projects
Speaking at the signing of contracts for civil works at key sites in Etahi, Omigbo, and Ankpa, Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to tackling environmental challenges.
He noted that the state government’s commitment to environmental restoration and community safety led to the recent signing of contracts for civil works at these key sites.
“This project is a demonstration of our resolve to address erosion issues in Kogi State and ensure that communities are safe from the dangers of flooding and land degradation,” he said.
Represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Stephen Oluwasegun, Governor Ododo emphasized the importance of delivering high-quality work.
“We expect contractors to carry out this project with the utmost professionalism and ensure long-lasting solutions,” he stated, adding, “At the same time, I urge communities to take responsibility for the sustainability of these projects by preventing activities that could lead to further erosion.”
Meanwhile, residents have commended ACReSAL for the positive impact of the project on their communities.
Speaking with NatureNews in Lokoja, Mrs. Angela Ohikere Communication officer Kogi State ACReSAL said, “ACReSAL project is not only limited to tree planting but also includes gully reclamation in a bid to control water, make ease with the people in the community, which is a great impact in the community where those projects are ongoing.”
Residents in affected areas have already begun to experience the benefits of the intervention.
In an interview with NatureNews Reporter, a road user shared his experience of the challenges faced before the project.
“Before this project, flooding made commuting very risky, especially for motorcyclists. There was an instance where a bike rider was swept away by strong water currents,” he recounted.
Another resident, also interviewed by NatureNews Reporter, highlighted the improvements brought about by the project.
“With this ACReSAL project, movement has become easier, and we no longer worry about getting stuck in water,” he said, stressing the importance of proper drainage in preventing disruptions to daily life.
As work nears completion at the Etahi Gully Site in Okene LGA, the Omigbo Channelisation Site in Kabba Bunu LGA, and the Olubo-Ojo Gully Site in Ankpa LGA, Governor Ododo praised the dedication of the Kogi State ACReSAL team, led by State Project Coordinator Ladi Ahmed Jatto.
“I am proud of the dedication shown by our ACReSAL team in ensuring the success of this intervention.
Their efforts are crucial to improving environmental resilience in Kogi State,” the governor stated.
The ACReSAL intervention is expected to significantly enhance environmental resilience and improve livelihoods across Kogi State.
