Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has commended the Nigeria Climate Adaptation and Erosion Management Project (NEWMAP-EIB) and its Federal Project Management Unit for its critical interventions in addressing soil erosion and land degradation in the state.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Communication Specialist of NEWMAP-EIB, Madina Gertrude and made available to Channel Network Afrique.
According to the statement, the delegation, led by National Project Coordinator Engr. Ayuba Anda Yalaks, received recognition for its hands-on approach in assessing and tackling erosion-related issues directly impacting local communities, during a courtesy call in Lafia.
The governor expressed particular appreciation for Engr. Yalaks’ personal involvement, acknowledging his field visits to erosion-prone areas across Nasarawa.
“Let me appreciate the NEWMAP-EIB. I am happy that, as an engineer, you came by yourself to assess the situation on the ground. Nasarawa State is deeply interested in these interventions, and the state’s demand for support is high,” Governor Sule stated.
The meeting In Lafia focused on assessing the state’s preparedness for the disbursement phase of the NEWMAP-EIB project, which aims to improve watershed restoration, enhance ecosystems, and boost economic resilience.
The five-year project, which is funded by the European Investment Bank, includes Nasarawa as one of 23 states chosen to receive vital environmental interventions intended to address land degradation, erosion, and floods in high-risk areas.
Engr. Yalaks highlighted the project’s objective to tackle extensive soil erosion and preserve the ecosystem, explaining that approximately 15 gully erosion sites have been identified for targeted action across six local government areas: Karu, Lafia, Akwanga, Obi, Nasarawa, and Doma.
Governor Sule encouraged the NEWMAP-EIB team to visit as many sites as possible, emphasizing the breadth of erosion-prone locations across Nasarawa State.
“It is best if you are able to visit as many sites as possible,” he urged.
“We have many sites in Nasarawa, and it doesn’t matter how many days you stay, you still won’t be able to see them all.”
Engr. Yalaks was accompanied by Nasarawa’s State Project Coordinator, Mr. Muhammad Ismaila, and other senior staff.
This collaboration highlights the state government’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation as it seeks solutions to the growing challenges of climate change and land degradation.
The visit concluded with Governor Sule presenting a plaque to Engr. Yalaks in recognition of the project’s efforts and partnership.
