Kogi Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has reaffirmed his commitment to the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, a joint initiative between the Nigerian Federal Government and the World Bank aimed at addressing environmental degradation and climate change.
During a meeting with the Kogi ACReSAL, National and World Bank team at Government House in Lokoja, Governor Ododo emphasized his allegiance to the people of Kogi.
“My allegiance is to the people of Kogi State, and I will not derail from the mandate to make their lives better.
“The Project fund, which is a loan, must be seen working for the people of Kogi State irrespective of your ethnicity, party or religion,” he stated.
Governor Ododo highlighted his administration’s support for the Project, including paying the State Counterpart Fund, procuring modern farm implements for smart agriculture, and planting thousands of trees to combat climate change.
He also commended the professionalism of the State Team Lead Barr Ladi Ahmed Jatto, OON, who follows due process in carrying out her job.
He noted that her meticulous guide has aided the tremendous progress made so far with the ACReSAL project in the state.
Responding, Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, ACReSAL Task Team Leader, praised Governor Ododo’s pivotal role in the Project’s success.
She announced Kogi State readiness for the additional community revolving funds for 80 more communities and commended Kogi ACReSAL’s advanced effort to achieve this feat. She also encouraged the Governor to leverage ACReSAL for the benefit of the people of Kogi State, particularly in the areas of agriculture, water, and environment.
Representing the National Project Coordinator, Abdulhamid Umar, the National Resources Management Specialist, Garba Musa thanked the Governor for his continuous support.
Notably, Kogi is the only ACReSAL participating State that is about to disburse Community Revolving Funds (CRF) to 80 communities, providing soft loans to improve livelihoods and promote a sustainable environment.
The ACReSAL Project focuses on restoring degraded lands, promoting climate-smart agriculture, and strengthening community resilience. With Governor Ododo’s support, ACReSAL is set to make a significant impact in Kogi.
