The federal government says it is committed to tackling flooding and improving the livelihoods of catchment communities through the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project.

Abdulhamid Umar, the ACReSAL national coordinator, made this assertion on Monday at the stakeholders engagement for the development of a ‘Strategic Catchment Management Plan’ for the Sokoto-Zamfara Rima and Golbin-Ka strategic catchments in Sokoto state.

Mr Umar stated that the engagement aligned with ACReSAL’s six-year, World Bank-assisted initiative to address environmental challenges caused by climate change and poor land-use practices.

“The federal government is investing heavily in catchment management, covering 20 strategic locations at the highest level.

“This, the 19 ACReSAL-participating Northern States and the FCT will also invest in micro-catchments to ensure sustainability,” he said

Mr Umar emphasised that the federal ministry of environment was working to implement strong policies and practices that would restore ecosystems and enhance climate resilience across northern Nigeria.

He explained that the session aimed to engage local communities on measures to improve their livelihoods and optimise the use of natural resources.

“Sokoto was chosen for this meeting due to the strategic importance of the Sokoto and Rima Rivers, which benefit five states.

“We have invited community representatives from these regions to discuss their challenges and develop sustainable solutions,” he added.

The coordinator also stated that a similar engagement had taken place in Kano state, focusing on the Hadeja-Jama’are catchment area, with successful outcomes.

Speaking at the event, Sokoto state commissioner for environment, Nura Tangaza, commended the federal government’s efforts.

He assured that the state government would provide the necessary support to achieve the project’s objectives.

The engagement brought together traditional and community leaders from Kebbi, Zamfara, Niger, Katsina and SoKoto states.

(NAN)