Kogi State Coordinator of the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL) project, Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto (OON), says the national award conferred on her by the Bureau of Public Service Reform at the Presidency recognises the Kogi State Government’s sustained efforts and commitment to community development from 2016 to date.
Jatto, who spoke in a telephone interview with newsmen in Lokoja, said the state has benefited significantly from a well-structured approach that ensured seamless transition and continuity of programmes across administrations.
She explained that ACReSAL, a World Bank-assisted project, has recorded results through counterpart funding sustained by the Kogi State Government, noting that although the project existed earlier, it only became effective from 2016.
She commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for sustaining the programmes and policies of his predecessor, saying the honour belongs equally to the women of Kogi State, the ACReSAL team and public officers across the state.
Jatto said the recognition of women who have distinguished themselves in their chosen careers, in a male-dominated society, points to a win-win approach to gender balance.
“I give God the glory for this positive recognition of institutional performance and service delivery. I must candidly say it validates the commitment made by the state government. The award serves as a motivating factor to work harder, to be more committed and focused. I want women in general to embrace such virtues in pursuit of excellence,” she said.
She added that the recognition boosts confidence in Kogi State’s credibility. “It tells citizens, partners and investors that Kogi State can plan, execute and deliver. There are more open doors for collaboration, both domestically and internationally. This is not the first time; the state has previously received a Certificate of Credence from the World Bank through prudent management of funds,” she said.
Jatto noted that World Bank projects ultimately belong to the people of Kogi, even though they are loans the state must commit to.
She commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for sustaining efforts to access the intervention through consistent payment of counterpart funds, saying degraded ecological conditions have been restored and many lives touched through NEWMAP and ACReSAL.
Focus on sustainability, afforestation
On expectations for the year ahead, the state coordinator said there would be closer monitoring of projects spread across the three senatorial districts.
She noted that three of the six years allotted to the programme have elapsed, adding that efforts will now focus on sustaining the initiatives already introduced; particularly afforestation through the planting of economic trees, water resource management, erosion control, restoration of degraded lands, and advocacy for a smart agricultural system, among others.
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