By Victoria Okpanachi
In a bid to ensure the sustainability of land restoration and agroforestry efforts, the Kogi State Government and its development partners, have advocated for more collaboration aimed at enhancing climate resilience.
The development partners, comprising representatives of the World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU), recently visited the ministry of Agriculture during an inspection tour of the ongoing agroforestry and land restoration projects being implemented by Kogi ACReSAL
Leading the delegation, Mr. Andy Seglah, livelihood expert, World Bank, said the visit was crucial in ensuring that the state continues to deepen its commitment to land restoration and agroforestry practices to enhance impact and sustainability.
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He emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between development partners and the state government in addressing environmental challenges and food insecurity.
Mr. Seglah advised that the state could explore partnerships with the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), to integrate livestock development into the value chain for a more holistic impact.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, while welcoming the team, commended them and Kogi ACReSAL for the visit while acknowledging that such initiatives remain a driving force to the many successes recorded in the agricultural sector.
Hon. Ojomah, who underscored the significance of the partnership, stated that the collaboration between the state and the development partners was vital to tackling food shortages and strengthening the state’s capacity to support neighbouring states.
He added that the government remains committed to its efforts, noting that the ACReSAL Project is playing a key role in driving forward the vision of the Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.
The day- three of the inspection covered 100 hectares of agroforestry land restoration in Ugbamaka community, Ofu Local Government Area, as well as 60 hectares in Ofejiji forest, located in Dekina Local Government Area.
The team applauded residents for their commitment and active participation in ensuring the success of the projects, while expert advice was given, urging the communities to take full ownership of the initiatives to guarantee long-term benefits and sustainability.
