By Suleiman Abdulmumin
The Kogi State House of Assembly Committee on Land, Environment and Ecological Management, under the chairmanship of Hon Jibril Abu, has conducted a strategic oversight visit to the State Office of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project. The visit underscored the importance of Legislative Oversight in sustaining impactful developmental projects and enforcing transparency.
ACReSAL is a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at addressing land degradation, improving climate resilience, and promoting sustainable environmental practices across Nigeria’s semi-arid regions. In Kogi State, the project is coordinated by Hajia Ladi Ahmed Jatto Esq, in close partnership with the Kogi State Government.
Hon. Jibril Abu, who represents Ajaokuta State Constituency, emphasized that oversight functions are critical tools for ensuring that government partnerships and international donor interventions are effective, community-focused, and accountable.
He was accompanied by key members of the committee, including:
Hon. Bin-Ebaiya Shehu Tijjani (Hon. Best) – Member representing Lokoja I Constituency and Vice Chairman of the Committee; Hon. Bode Ogunmola – Member representing Ogori/Magongo Constituency. They contributed immensely to the discussions whilst proffering plausible solutions to challenges that seem to confront the Team and their mandate.
The Team reviewed Kogi State Acresal’s ongoing interventions across the State, which include:
~Erosion control in areas like Ogugu, Ankpa, and Lokoja
~Afforestation projects in Kabba, and other degraded zones
~Solar-powered water supply systems in underserved rural communities
~Climate-smart livelihood programmes targeting women, youth, and farmers
The Lawmakers commended Hajia Ladi Jatto (Esq) and her Team inclusive of the likes of Pastor Abiodun Ojo, Procurement Head, Internal Auditor and others for aligning with global environmental best practices and pledged to provide legislative support for the continuity and expansion of the project.
The Committee gave special recognition to the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his proactive leadership and personal commitment to climate resilience and environmental justice. Just last week, the Governor undertook an on-the-spot assessment of ACReSAL’s major intervention in Ankpa, a move widely applauded as a strong signal of hands-on governance and people-centered leadership.
According to the committee, Governor Ododo’s visit reflects a rare demonstration of political will, attention to grassroots impact, and a renewed drive to maximize global partnerships like Acresal for the benefit of the people. His administration’s prompt release of counterpart funds, policy alignment, and field engagement have set a new tone for development delivery in the state.
“The Governor is not just administrating from the office, he is on the ground, walking through erosion sites, engaging project teams, and ensuring the people see government in action. That is the leadership Kogi State deserves, and under his watch, we are proud to say our environment is in safe hands,” Hon. Jibril remarked.
The Committee assured Kogites that they will continue to exercise their Legislative mandate with diligence, ensure all projects meet expected standards, and collaborate with all stakeholders to drive progress and sustainability.