The achievements of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project must be embedded into permanent governance frameworks to ensure long-term environmental protection and climate resilience long after the project’s lifespan!

Speaking on Day Three of the ongoing ACReSAL Work Plan Finalization and Project Implementation Manual (PIM) Review, the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal (represented by Green Bond Coordinator Olaitan Fajuyitan), stressed that translating project milestones into enduring institutional structures remains a top priority for the Federal Government.

Highlights from the day’s sessions include:

Data-Driven Planning: NiMet Chief Meteorologist, A’ishatu Silas-Dikko, showcased how seasonal climate forecasting is driving evidence-based landscape restoration and erosion control across target catchments.

Evidence-Based SCMP Execution:

Director of Hydrology (Ministry of Water Resources & Sanitation), Engr. Abohwo Ngozi J., commended participating states for aligning their work plans with Strategic Catchment Management Plans.

World Bank TTL, Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, reinforced that managing shared watersheds requires strong inter-state collaboration, not isolated efforts.

ESF Specialist Elijah Sierekpe noted that proactive Security Management Plans have kept field personnel and communities safe across volatile project locations over the past 3 years.

PIM Review Readiness: Coordinated by Sule James, stakeholders reviewed core compliance, investment readiness, and value-for-money measures to position ACReSAL for its next growth phase!

Together with the Federal Government, participating states, and the World Bank, ACReSAL is building a sustainable green future for Nigeria!

Read the full story on the ACReSAL Nigeria Website.