The Federal Government has launched an ambitious project to restore approximately one million hectares of degraded land in Northern Nigeria. The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project aims to sustainably restore degraded land, making it suitable for various uses.
According to Abdulhamid Umar, National Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, the project will focus on restoring land in five states: Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, Bauchi, and Kano. Umar emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “This is the first time the Nigerian government is developing a catchment management plan of this magnitude.”
The project is supported by the World Bank through the International Development Association. Umar highlighted that the engagement with stakeholders would facilitate the development of a strategic catchment management plan, which would integrate social and economic needs with natural ecosystems.
The ACReSAL project seeks to impact 3.4 million direct beneficiaries, with 1.68 million being women. Umar emphasized that catchment management plans would provide scientifically guided decisions and early strategies for preparing and averting potential environmental challenges.
The development of 20 strategic catchment management plans is crucial for the implementation of the ACReSAL project. Umar explained that these plans would create a platform for micro catchment management plans and strengthen Nigeria’s long-term enabling environment for integrated climate-resilient landscape management.
Managing Director of Mecon Geology and Engineering Services Ltd, Chuka Offodile, assured that his company would deliver quality data to guide investments within the developed strategic catchment management plan. Offodile emphasized the importance of addressing food production and food security, a priority of the Federal Government.
Stakeholders lauded the Federal Government for its efforts to restore degraded land, making it cultivable, habitable, and usable. The project’s success is crucial for the region’s economic development and environmental sustainability.
The ACReSAL project is a significant step towards addressing environmental challenges in Northern Nigeria. By restoring degraded land, the project aims to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development.
Umar emphasized the project’s goal, stating, “The ultimate goal of ACRESAL’s Strategic Catchment Plan is to strengthen the entire country’s long-term enabling environment for integrated climate-resilient landscape management.”
The project’s success depends on the collaboration and engagement of stakeholders. Offodile expressed gratitude for the support and inputs from all parties involved.
The restoration of degraded land in Northern Nigeria is a critical step towards promoting sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges. The ACReSAL project’s success will have far-reaching impacts on the region’s economy and environment.
