Gombe Govt begins N48.6bn erosion control project
Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, on Wednesday, presided over the signing of a N48.6 billion gully erosion control project in the state.
The contract was signed between the state government and Triacta Nigeria Limited.
Yahaya while speaking during the ceremony in Hayin Kwari Misau in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State said that the move was to secure the state’s environment and protect the people’s future.
He said that the project was part of his administration’s efforts at addressing environmental challenges and restoring hope to affected communities.
“The gully erosion control project we are signing today represents our administration’s comprehensive approach to tackling environmental challenges – combining infrastructure, livelihood support and community empowerment.
“The contract for the project is N48,602,087,353 with a completion period of 30 months.
“In addition to signing the contract, we are issuing cheques for compensation to residents in the 10-meter buffer zone along the project corridor.
“ This reflects our principle of inclusive development.
“We are also doing more to our local communities through initiatives that provide community revolving funds that will finance the setting up of fishponds, poultry farms and greenhouses, in order to create sustainable livelihoods.”
The governor said as part of the activities, a total of 12 tractors, 12 tricycles, three Hilux vehicles and one Hiace bus would be inaugurated, in efforts to strengthen agricultural extension services in Gombe State.
Yahaya commended World Bank ACReSAL project led by Dr. Joy Agene for efforts at reclaiming degraded land in Northern Nigeria.
He called on the people to protect the investments and prevent against any form of damage or sabotage, in the spirit of shared ownership and collective responsibility.
“Together, we will reclaim our land, secure our environment and build a legacy of resilience for future generations,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Project Coordinator of the Gombe State ACReSAL, Mr Sani Jauro lauded Gov Yahaya for his administration’s commitment in addressing environmental challenges in the state.
Jauro said that previously completed erosion control projects had helped improved school enrollment, reduce outbreak of diseases and protected the livelihoods of thousands of households in affected communities.
