The Integrated Landscape Management (ILM) Policy has been described as one of the key prerequisite conditions for states to qualify for the Additional Finance (AF) of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project.
This was stated by the Niger State ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Malam Raji Shehu Adam, at the opening of the inception meeting between the State Project Management Unit (SPMU) and Zabet Trusthands Koncern Limited, the consulting firm handling the ILM Policy study for Niger-ACReSAL.
Malam Adam said the ILM Policy is critical to ensuring sustainable landscape management and will provide a policy framework that guides how land, water, forest and agricultural resources are managed in an integrated manner across the state.
He explained that the World Bank-supported ACReSAL project requires participating states to have a robust ILM Policy in place as part of measures to access the Additional Finance, noting that Niger State is fully committed to meeting all conditions.
According to him, the policy, when developed, will align with the New Niger Agenda of Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, which prioritizes environmental sustainability, food security and climate resilience.
He urged the consultants to carry out a thorough and inclusive study that will reflect the peculiarities of Niger State and produce a policy document that is implementable and impactful.
The Team Lead for the Zabet Consult, Dr. David Okoruwa, assured the SPMU of the firm’s commitment to deliver a comprehensive and standard ILM Policy. He said his team will engage relevant stakeholders across Ministries, Departments, Agencies and communities to ensure the policy is all-encompassing and addresses the landscape challenges of the state.
Dr. Okoruwa commended the Niger SPMU for its proactiveness and organization, describing Niger ACReSAL as one of the leading states in the implementation of the ACReSAL project.
The inception meeting marks the formal commencement of the ILM Policy development process for Niger State under the ACReSAL project.
Highlight of the event includes, Overview of both the questioniers for ILM Policy and action plan, Environmental and climate change action plan and Contract signing.