Food Security: Ododo Commissions ACReSAL Equipment To Boost Agriculture

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to food security and climate resilience, commissions a new set of agricultural and environmental management equipment under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative.

The ceremony which took place on Monday, held at Muhammadu Buhari Square, marked another milestone in the state’s drive to address food scarcity, flooding, land degradation, and the adverse effects of climate change.

Representing the governor at the event, the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engineer Joseph Oluwasegun, said the project would significantly deepen Kogi State’s agricultural and environmental transformation. He emphasised that the current administration has positioned agriculture as a central driver of food security, job creation, and sustainable economic growth.

According to him, over N7 billion was invested in 2024 in tractors, seedlings, fertilizers, and other farm implements. Between 2024 and 2025, the state recorded more than 10,000 mechanized farmers, creating employment opportunities particularly for youths and women, while promoting inclusive rural development and economic stability.

As part of the newly commissioned assets, the state unveiled one swamp buggy, 23 tractors, one low-bed vehicle, 20 tipping tricycles, 30 galvanized wheel waste bins, 400 plastic waste bins, 200 rakes, and 150 shovels for community-based waste management. Officials said the equipment would be strategically deployed to restore degraded lands, improve waste management systems, empower farmers, and promote a cleaner and healthier environment.

The ACReSAL Project Coordinator in Kogi State, Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto, commended Governor Ododo for his dedication to environmental sustainability and acknowledged the support of development partners. She disclosed that through the project’s Community Revolving Fund (CRF) loan scheme, N3 billion had been disbursed to 90 communities, benefiting 4,201 individuals engaged in farming and agro-processing.

Jatto further revealed that two greenhouse facilities have been completed, with two additional facilities currently under construction. The greenhouses, she said, will boost agricultural production and serve as learning hubs for farmers, students, and agricultural practitioners.

Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Aliyu Umar Yusuf, represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Jubril Abdul, described the initiative as proof that environmental protection is a collective responsibility. He praised the ACReSAL team for demonstrating competence and commitment in project execution.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, also lauded the project coordinator for her contributions to the state’s development. He noted that the government has consistently supported farmers through various agencies, recently distributing over 30,000 bags of fertilizer to enhance productivity and processing capacity.