The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, a $700 million World Bank-funded initiative, has reached a significant milestone with the endorsement of its strategic catchment management plans (SCMP) by the Federal Government of Nigeria and 19 northern states. This six-year project aims to tackle the escalating climate challenges plaguing the region, focusing on sustainable land and water management practices within the vulnerable semi-arid landscapes. The project’s core area of operation is the Hadejia Jama’are catchment, a vital water resource shared by Jigawa and Bauchi states. The recent validation session in Abuja celebrated the progress made across the participating states, highlighting achievements in environmental restoration and active community engagement, underscoring the project’s community-centric approach. This milestone signifies a critical step towards enhancing climate resilience and improving the livelihoods of communities in the affected regions.
The development of the SCMP represents a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s approach to environmental management. For the first time, a comprehensive, large-scale plan has been developed that transcends state political boundaries, recognizing the interconnectedness of natural resources and the need for collaborative management. The project emphasizes a science-based approach combined with extensive community feedback, ensuring that the plans are not only technically sound but also address the specific needs and priorities of the communities residing within the catchment areas. This collaborative strategy, which involved extensive consultations with stakeholders in Kano, ensures that the SCMP is truly representative of the needs of those it aims to serve, solidifying its potential for long-term success.
The validation event served as a platform for key stakeholders to express their support and highlight the significance of the ACReSAL project. The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, lauded the project as a historic achievement for Nigeria, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the SCMP and its potential to safeguard shared resources and heritage. Professor Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, underscored the project’s scientific rigor and community-driven approach, highlighting its focus on watershed protection, water quality enhancement, and habitat restoration. He urged stakeholders to become champions for the environment and advocate for the project’s successful implementation. The ministers’ endorsements signify strong government backing for the project and its long-term objectives.
The impact of ACReSAL extends beyond environmental restoration to encompass significant contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Aliyu Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, noted the project’s success in reclaiming degraded land, equipping farmers with climate-smart tools, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The project’s initiatives, including the Nigerian Farmers Soil Health Card Scheme, have empowered farmers to adopt climate-resilient techniques such as agroforestry and drought-resistant crop cultivation, resulting in increased productivity despite the challenges posed by a changing climate. This integration of environmental sustainability with agricultural development underscores the project’s holistic approach to improving livelihoods in the region.
Representing the Northern Governors’ Forum, Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya commended the SCMP’s vital role in addressing water scarcity, drought, and land degradation, challenges that have long plagued the Northern region. He highlighted the region’s untapped potential, emphasizing that despite the threat of desertification, the north possesses significant water resources capable of supporting year-round agricultural production with effective management strategies. Governor Yahaya showcased Gombe State’s success in planting over 4 million trees under the “Gombe Goes Green” initiative, supported by ACReSAL, demonstrating the tangible impact of the project on the ground. His endorsement on behalf of the Northern Governors’ Forum signifies regional buy-in and commitment to the project’s implementation.
The ACReSAL project, with its multi-faceted approach, represents a significant investment in the future of Northern Nigeria. By addressing climate challenges, promoting sustainable land and water management, and empowering local communities, the project promises to enhance resilience, improve livelihoods, and contribute to the long-term sustainable development of the region. The endorsement of the SCMP marks a critical step forward, paving the way for its implementation and the realization of its ambitious goals. The project stands as a testament to the power of collaborative action and the potential for positive change through strategic investments in climate resilience and sustainable development.
