Kogi’s ACReSAL Success Earns National Recognition, Says State Coordinator
The Kogi State Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto (OON), has described her recent national award from the Bureau of Public Service Reform (BPSR), under the Presidency, as a recognition of the Kogi State Government’s unwavering commitment to sustainable community development and institutional excellence.
Speaking in a telephone interview with journalists in Lokoja, Jatto said the honour reflects the state’s consistent investment in environmental restoration and development initiatives through continuity in governance and effective implementation of policies dating back to 2016.
She attributed the success of the World Bank-assisted ACReSAL project to the Kogi State Government’s sustained payment of counterpart funding and its commitment to ensuring seamless transition and continuity of development programmes.
According to her, although the ACReSAL project officially exists as a World Bank intervention, it only became fully operational in Kogi State from 2016 due to deliberate government commitment and strategic planning.
Jatto commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for sustaining the programmes and policies initiated by his predecessor, describing the award as a collective achievement for the state.
She dedicated the recognition to the women of Kogi State, members of the ACReSAL team and public servants whose dedication has contributed to the project’s success.
“In a male-dominated society, recognising women who have distinguished themselves in public service is a strong indication that merit, competence and gender inclusion are receiving the attention they deserve,” she said.
Expressing gratitude for the honour, Jatto noted that the award was a validation of the state’s commitment to institutional performance and quality service delivery.
“I give God all the glory for this recognition. It validates the commitment and dedication of the Kogi State Government to delivering impactful projects. This award will inspire us to work harder, remain focused and deepen our commitment to excellence.
“I encourage women to remain committed to integrity, hard work and professionalism in their various fields. This recognition also enhances Kogi State’s credibility, assuring citizens, development partners and investors that the state has the capacity to plan, execute and deliver meaningful projects. It also creates greater opportunities for both local and international collaborations,” she said.
Jatto recalled that Kogi State had previously received commendation from the World Bank for prudent management of project funds, describing it as evidence of transparency and accountability in the implementation of donor-supported programmes.
She stressed that World Bank interventions are development loans undertaken on behalf of the people and require the commitment of state governments through counterpart funding.
According to her, Governor Ododo has continued to demonstrate commitment by consistently providing the required counterpart funds, enabling the state to access critical interventions aimed at improving the lives of residents.
She noted that environmental challenges across the state have been significantly addressed through the implementation of both the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) and ACReSAL, with degraded lands restored, erosion controlled and livelihoods improved.
Looking ahead, the state coordinator disclosed that greater attention would be given to monitoring ongoing projects across Kogi’s three senatorial districts to ensure quality delivery and long-term sustainability.
She observed that three years of the six-year ACReSAL programme have already elapsed, adding that the remaining period would focus on sustaining existing interventions through afforestation, planting of economic trees, water resource management, erosion control, restoration of degraded lands and advocacy for climate-smart agricultural practices.
Jatto reaffirmed the state’s commitment to ensuring that all completed projects State.
