From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
The Kaduna State government has allocated N1.4 billion to compensate 891 households whose homes and farmlands will be impacted by upcoming civil works aimed at remediating degraded lands across the state.
This initiative is part of the World Bank-supported ACReSAL program and targets erosion-prone areas in Zaria, Rigasa, and St. Peter’s in Kawo, with work scheduled to begin immediately.
The civil works will include land restoration, environmental remediation, and post-project tree planting to ensure long-term sustainability.
The state government has committed to a transparent compensation process, with lists of affected households, property details, and corresponding compensation amounts publicly displayed for verification.
During a sensitization visit to the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamali, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Abubakar Buba, briefed the traditional ruler about the project and the compensation plan.
“Governor Uba Sani has instructed that all processes be carried out transparently. The Governor has made the funds available, and we are ready to commence work immediately,” Buba stated.
Buba emphasized that engaging stakeholders—including community leaders, religious institutions, women’s groups, and youth organizations—will facilitate smooth implementation.
The Emir of Zazzau commended the government’s initiative, describing it as a timely and critical intervention for communities affected by land degradation.
“We are very pleased with the government’s efforts and the allocation of N1.4 billion for compensation. This project will positively impact the lives of our people,” Ambassador Bamali said, expressing the cooperation of district heads and local communities.
Buba also announced the resumption of monthly sanitation exercises across the state, starting from November 29, which will be enforced by local authorities, mobile courts, and security agencies.
The project addresses three major degraded areas: Zaria (13 km), Karuna (17 km), and St. Peter’s in Kawo (3.3 km). Similar interventions are planned for other areas, including Kafanchan, Jaba, and Sabon Tasha, under the state’s NEWMAP-EIB project.
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