Ondo benefits, as FG, EIB unveil climate adaptation project
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its resolve to combat erosion and protect vulnerable communities as it joined other key stakeholders in Abuja for the official launch of the Nigeria Climate Adaptation Erosion and Watershed Project.
The initiative, supported by the European Investment Bank (EIB), was unveiled at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, with top dignitaries in attendance, including the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal; officials from the EIB Regional Hub for West and Central Africa; the National Project Coordinator, Engr. Anda Ayuba Yalaks; and representatives of participating states.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Environment described the project as “a landmark step in Nigeria’s climate adaptation efforts,” while EIB officials stressed that the partnership would enhance resilience in erosion-prone regions and promote sustainable environmental practices.
Ondo State, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is one of the beneficiaries of the intervention, which focuses on watershed management, erosion control, and community-based climate adaptation programmes.
The state’s delegation to the launch was led by the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowumi Isaac, and the Commissioner for Environment and Chairman of the State Steering Committee, Dr. Tob Loko. They were accompanied by the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Olumide Kinga, and members of the State Project Monitoring Unit.
With the rollout expected across selected states, the project will prioritise sustainable land management, flood control, and the protection of fragile ecosystems.
The launch brought together policymakers, development partners, and civil society groups, all united in the drive to build stronger and more climate-resilient communities across Nigeria.
