By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Lokoja
March 2, 2026
The Kogi State Government has taken another decisive step toward strengthening food security and environmental sustainability with the commissioning of new agricultural and ecological management equipment under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) programme.
The exercise was carried out by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Hon. Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun.
Speaking at the event, Hon Oluwasegun described the intervention as a major boost to Kogi State’s agricultural and environmental reform agenda. He noted that the Ododo administration has deliberately positioned agriculture as a key driver of food sufficiency, employment generation, and long-term economic sustainability.
He disclosed that the state invested over ₦7 billion in 2024 on tractors, fertilizers, seedlings, and other essential farm inputs. Between 2024 and 2025, more than 10,000 farmers benefited from mechanized farming initiatives, creating jobs particularly for youths and women, while promoting inclusive rural development and economic stability.
The newly commissioned assets include a swamp buggy, 23 tractors, one low-bed truck, 20 tipping tricycles, 30 galvanized waste bins, 400 plastic waste bins, as well as rakes and shovels for community-based waste management.
Officials explained that the equipment would be deployed strategically to rehabilitate degraded land, enhance waste disposal systems, support farmers, and promote a cleaner and healthier environment.
The Kogi State ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto, applauded Governor Ododo for his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and acknowledged the backing of development partners. She revealed that through the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) loan scheme, ₦3 billion had been released to 90 communities, benefiting 4,201 individuals involved in farming and agro-processing.
She further disclosed that two greenhouse facilities have been completed, with two others currently under construction.
According to her, the facilities will not only increase agricultural output but also serve as training and research centers for farmers, students, and agricultural professionals.
Also speaking, 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 evidence that environmental protection requires collective responsibility. He commended the ACReSAL team for professionalism and effective project execution.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, praised the project coordinator for her contributions to the state’s progress and reaffirmed the government’s continuous support for farmers. He noted that over 30,000 bags of fertilizer were recently distributed across the state to improve productivity and agro-processing capacity.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government, Hon. Adamu, said the availability of tractors would end the need for local farmers to seek mechanization support from neighboring states. He expressed gratitude to the Governor and the ACReSAL team for the timely intervention.
Participants said the commissioning of the equipment highlights Kogi State’s broader commitment to boosting agricultural productivity, reducing environmental risks, expanding employment opportunities, and building a greener, more climate-resilient future for its people.
