In A Bid to Tackle Environmental Hazard, Niger State Government Urges Action on Gully Erosion Sites
The Niger State Government has called on the Agro Climate Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) to accelerate efforts in stabilizing gully erosion sites in the Mokwa Local Government Area. This urgent appeal was made during a special dinner hosted for the ACReSAL World Bank team in Minna, highlighting the state’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
Representing Governor Mohammed Bago, Deputy Chief of Staff and Coordinator of all World Bank projects in the State, Sadiq Yusuf, emphasized that stabilizing these erosion sites is crucial for easing the long-standing worries of the local community. The people of Mokwa have been living with the threat of gully erosion for far too long, and the government is keen to provide them with a safer and more secure environment.
Yusuf also took the opportunity to reassure the ACReSAL team of the state government’s unwavering support for all World Bank-assisted projects in the state. He expressed the government’s dedication to ensuring the success of these initiatives, which are designed to drive positive change and improve the lives of the local population.
Dr. Joy Agene, Task Team Leader of ACReSAL, praised the Niger State government for creating an enabling environment that has been instrumental in the success of ACReSAL projects in the state. She also commended Governor Mohammed Bago, known affectionately as the “farmer governor,” for his outstanding support for women in the agricultural sector. This recognition underscores the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women in the farming community.
The World Bank’s mission in Niger State has provided a significant opportunity for ACReSAL to validate and endorse a strategic management plan, which will pave the way for the development of 20 strategic catchment management plans. According to Dr. Abdulhameed Umar, National Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, this management plan will ultimately give rise to an additional 200 micro catchment management plans at sub-national levels, with Niger State at the forefront of this initiative.
As the state government and ACReSAL work together to address the pressing issue of gully erosion, the people of Mokwa can look forward to a brighter future, free from the threats posed by environmental hazards. With the support of the World Bank and the dedication of the Niger State government, the region is poised to make significant strides in promoting sustainable development and improving the well-being of its citizens.
