Abdulkadir Kure University Launches Campus Green-Up Project and ACRESAL Initiatives
Abdulkadir Kure University in Minna has initiated the Campus Green-Up Project and ACRESAL programs, distributing tractors and empowering youth and women to address climate change and enhance community resilience.
Mary Nwaeze 
On September 23, 2024, Abdulkadir Kure University launched the Campus Green-Up Project and the commissioning of ten tractors, alongside a robust plan for land reclamation, youth and women empowerment, and the drilling of boreholes. The event, held at the university’s ACEESAL Multipurpose Nursery Plant, is a significant step towards addressing climate change and environmental degradation in the region.
The initiative is part of the Niger State Government's broader Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) program. According to Bologi Ibrahim, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, these projects aim to combat pressing issues like food insecurity and environmental challenges affecting local communities.
Governor Umaru Bago, represented by Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba, emphasized that the program aligns with his administration’s commitment to reclaiming land from environmental degradation. He stated, “This initiative will support our multi-sectoral approaches for desertification control and landscape management, ultimately improving community resilience and enhancing the livelihoods of the rural populace.”
Key Features of the Project
- Tractor Distribution: A total of ten tractors, procured through collaboration with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), will be distributed to ten Local Government Areas as part of the first phase of the initiative.
- Youth and Women Empowerment: The program will train 100 youths in establishing plant nurseries and 100 women in seedling production. Beneficiaries will receive starter packs to support their projects across various locations in the state, with Abdulkadir Kure University serving as the initial training hub.
- Borehole Drilling: The project includes plans to drill boreholes in phases to enhance water provision and sanitation in communities. The first phase will target areas including Abdulkadir Kure University, Kpanduko in Bosso, Baidna in Paikoro, and others.
Raji Shehu Adam, the State Coordinator of ACRESAL, highlighted that the tractors would be distributed to empower local farmers. “Only ten Local Government Areas will benefit from this first phase, and a portal will be opened for interested youths to register for starter packs,” he noted.
Community Support and Collaboration
The event received praise from various dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, and the Commissioner for Agriculture, Salihu Bawa Bosso. They commended the Farmer Governor's initiatives that directly benefit citizens and promote sustainable practices.
Yakubu Mohammed Kolo, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, emphasized the importance of involving communities in sustainable land management to prevent land degradation and restore ecosystems.
In a symbolic gesture, Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba presented tractors and participated in tree planting, reinforcing the commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
The Campus Green-Up Project and ACRESAL initiatives mark a significant stride in Niger State's efforts to foster resilience against climate challenges while empowering its youth and women for a sustainable future.
