By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
A delegation from the World Bank has commended the scale, quality and impact of ongoing erosion control interventions in Gombe State, describing the efforts as a strong model for climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
The delegation, led by the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Matthew Verghis, made the remarks during an inspection visit to key project sites in the state.
According to a statement issued by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the team, accompanied by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, visited the Federal College of Education (Technical) Watershed Management Project.
The delegation assessed the 21-kilometre gully erosion control project being executed under the ACReSAL.
At the site, a representative of Triacta Nigeria Limited, Imran Khan, explained that the intervention integrates reinforced concrete structures with bioremediation techniques to restore degraded land and curb further erosion.
He noted that the approach is designed to ensure long-term environmental sustainability and resilience.
Also speaking, the State Coordinator of ACReSAL, Sani Adamu Jauro, highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the project.
He revealed that, beyond infrastructure development, the initiative provides livelihood support for affected communities, with over 100 beneficiaries currently accessing waste management and rainwater harvesting facilities.
Jauro further disclosed that a community revolving fund exceeding N350 million has been established to stimulate local economic activities and strengthen community resilience.
Beneficiaries who spoke during the visit expressed appreciation for the intervention, noting that it has improved livelihoods while protecting homes and farmlands from the devastating effects of erosion.
In a symbolic demonstration of commitment to environmental sustainability, Verghis and the Tunisian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohsen Antit, participated in a tree-planting exercise in support of the state’s afforestation drive.
