Oyo & Co. Set to Gain From European Bank Relief Fund
Oyo State has been included in a list of 23 Nigerian states that will receive support from the European Investment Bank as part of their efforts to address erosion and land degradation through the Nigeria Climate Adaptation Erosion and Watershed Project.
The intervention, facilitated via an EIB-supported program, is a component of a larger undertaking aimed at tackling the effects of climate change and enhancing environmental resilience throughout Nigeria.
The National Project Coordinator for the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project, Anda Ayuba Yalaks, made this statement on Tuesday when he paid a courtesy call to Governor Seyi Makinde at the governor's office in Ibadan.
Yalaks headed the team from the Federal Project Management Unit during a fact-finding trip to evaluate Oyo State's preparedness for initiating the project.
On Wednesday, the Ministry of Information and Orientation released a statement through their Director of Press and Public Relations, Bukola Bakare. The statement highlighted that the visit represents an essential phase for both the allocation and execution of the projects.
"The federal government has launched the Climate Adaptation: Erosion and Watershed program, which follows the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management initiative, aiming to tackle land degradation within specific sub-watersheds, enhance livelihoods, and boost environmental resilience for sustainable growth," stated Yalaks.
The project receives backing from the European Union and is supervised by the FPMU, with execution carried out by the 23 involved countries, inclusive of the mentioned state.
Yalaks commended the Oyo State Government for meeting crucial requirements needed for inclusion, such as approving and disbursing a N500 million matching grant. This action ensured the state’s qualification for EIB financing.
"I'm pleased to inform you that the state has fulfilled all the legitimate requirements needed to secure the funding," he stated.
After evaluating the sites chosen by the state government, Yalaks observed that areas presenting significant risks to people and infrastructure were recognized and sanctioned as potential sites consistent with EIB’s requirements.
Representing Governor Makinde, the Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal welcomed the delegation and reiterated the state’s dedication to the project, highlighting its significance for Oyo’s initiatives towards sustainable growth.
"We are already embarked on this journey, which is irreversible; we cannot turn back. Whatever requirements you have asked of us as the state government, we commit to fulfilling them. It’s crucial for us to enhance our efforts in ensuring that this collaboration becomes effective," Lawal emphasized.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, also spoke, praising Governor Makinde for his forward-thinking leadership, particularly in choosing key erosion-vulnerable locations.
He pointed out that the priority sites encompass regions in Eruwa, Igbeti, and Ibadan. Of particular concern is the gully erosion area at Ladoke Akintola University in Ogbomoso, which significantly jeopardizes current infrastructure projects.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).