Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has officially inaugurated a comprehensive agro-environmental initiative, including the reclamation of 100 hectares of land, empowerment of 200 youth and women, distribution of 10 tractors, and drilling of 100 boreholes under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) project.
Represented by his Deputy, Yakubu Garba, the governor stated that the project aims to tackle the challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and food insecurity across the state.
The event took place at the ACRESAL Multipurpose Nursery Plant at Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna.
The governor emphasised that the initiative aligns with the state government’s commitment to reversing the effects of environmental degradation and supporting sustainable development.
“The project will support our efforts to develop multi-sectoral approaches for desertification control and landscape management, enhancing community resilience and improving livelihoods,” he said.
As part of the project, 100 youth will be empowered to establish plant nurseries, while 100 women will receive support for seedling production.
Each beneficiary will be equipped with starter packs to facilitate these activities. The initiative will start at Abdulkadir Kure University and will later expand to other areas, including Bida, Kontagora, New Bussa, and Suleja.
The drilling of 100 boreholes aims to improve water and sanitation across 25 local government areas, with the first phase covering Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna, and communities in Bosso, Paikoro, Wushishi, Mokwa, Agaie, and Bida LGAs.
Raji Adam, the State Coordinator for ACRESAL, highlighted the collaborative effort between the Niger State Government and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which has provided the tractors. One tractor will be allocated to each of the 25 LGAs, with 10 LGAs benefiting in the initial phase.
Regarding youth empowerment, Adam announced the creation of a registration portal where interested youth can apply and receive starter packs.
He noted that ACRESAL will support beneficiaries by purchasing their produce, providing a sustainable market for their goods.
Yakubu Kolo, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, emphasised the significance of community engagement in sustainable land management to prevent degradation, restore ecosystems, and enhance biodiversity in the state.
In his remarks, Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, praised Governor Bago’s initiatives, highlighting the positive impact on job creation and community development.
The event concluded with a symbolic presentation of tractors and the planting of trees by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba.
