By Suleiman Abubakar Rimi Uku Lafia
Environmental sustainability remains a critical concern in Nigeria, particularly in semi-arid regions where climate change and land degradation pose significant challenges.
In response, the World Bank-supported Agro-climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has emerged as a beacon of hope, fostering climate resilience and sustainable land management across 19 northern states, including Nasarawa.
A recent visit by Nasarawa State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barrister Isaac Danladi, to the ACReSAL office in Lafia.
underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration in driving environmental reforms.
The visit was not just a ceremonial exercise; it served as a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening policies and interventions that ensure the long-term success of land conservation efforts.
The ACReSAL Initiative: A Transformative Approach
At the heart of ACReSAL’s mission is the need to combat desertification, restore degraded landscapes, and enhance community resilience to climate variability.
The initiative focuses on four key pillars: climate resilience, project management, policy development, and watershed intersection management. These components work in synergy to create a sustainable framework for environmental preservation.
During his address, Commissioner Danladi highlighted the urgency of adopting proactive measures, stressing that ACReSAL is not merely a program but a vital strategy for protecting Nasarawa’s ecological future.
"Environmental sustainability is not the responsibility of government alone.
It requires collective action from stakeholders, communities, and policymakers," he remarked.
Building Partnerships for Sustainability
Dr. Napoleon Gyobe, Nasarawa State Project Coordinator for ACReSAL, provided insights into the project’s achievements, citing its role in advancing rural development and policy-driven environmental management.
He emphasized that the initiative is already yielding tangible results, from afforestation projects to the rehabilitation of degraded lands.
"We are not just implementing policies—we are transforming communities through sustainable environmental solutions," Dr. Gyobe noted.
Recognizing ACReSAL’s impact, Commissioner Danladi pledged the state government’s continued support, assuring that efforts would be intensified to ensure the initiative reaches even the most remote areas.
Beyond Policies: A Commitment to Action
The Commissioner’s visit culminated in an extensive tour of ACReSAL’s facilities, reaffirming the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The inspection of various units and departments showcased the technical expertise and operational frameworks driving the initiative forward.
With the increasing threats of deforestation and land degradation, projects like ACReSAL offer a roadmap for long-term ecological balance.
As Nasarawa State pushes for more stakeholder involvement, the challenge now lies in sustaining momentum and ensuring that conservation efforts translate into lasting impact.
Looking Ahead
For ACReSAL to achieve its full potential, sustained collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and international partners is imperative.
Beyond immediate interventions, the focus must shift towards long-term environmental policies that integrate conservation with economic empowerment.
As Nasarawa State continues to champion green initiatives, ACReSAL stands as a testament to what can be achieved through strategic planning and collective action. With committed leadership and stakeholder participation, the vision of a greener, more resilient future remains within reach.
