The Kaduna State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in collaboration with the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, has successfully conducted the groundbreaking ceremony for the Rigasa Gully Erosion Intervention Project in Igabi Local Government Area, reaffirming the administration of Senator Dr. Uba Sani, as one committed to sustainable development, environmental restoration, and the welfare of its citizens.
The event, held on Thursday, 2nd July 2026, was attended by the Minister of Environment and Chairman of the Federal Steering Committee on ACReSAL, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, senior officials of the World Bank, the ACReSAL National Project Coordination Office, development partners, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Abubakar Buba, described the project as a landmark intervention that will address the persistent menace of gully erosion, protect lives and infrastructure, and enhance environmental resilience in Rigasa and adjoining communities.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of compensation cheques to Project Affected Persons (PAPs) whose properties and interests are impacted by the project. Nearly 1,000 beneficiaries received compensation, with about ₦2 billion earmarked for disbursement. This historic gesture reflects the Kaduna State Government’s unwavering commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and strict adherence to global best practices in resettlement and social safeguards.
Delivering the keynote address, Governor Uba Sani reiterated that no meaningful development can be achieved without protecting both the environment and the dignity of the people. He emphasized that the compensation exercise demonstrates his administration’s resolve to ensure that development projects are implemented with justice, transparency, and compassion.
The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources commends Uba Sani for his visionary leadership and bold investments in environmental protection, climate resilience, and people centred governance. The Governor’s commitment continues to position Kaduna State as a national model in sustainable environmental management and infrastructure development.
The Ministry equally applauds the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Abubakar Buba, whose strategic leadership, dedication, and effective coordination have continued to drive impactful environmental initiatives across the State. His stewardship has strengthened the implementation of transformative projects that directly improve the lives of Kaduna residents.
Upon completion, the Rigasa Gully Erosion Intervention Project will significantly mitigate erosion, safeguard lives and properties, preserve critical infrastructure, restore degraded landscapes, and contribute to a cleaner, safer, and more climate resilient Kaduna State.
Signed:
Office of the Special Assistants to the Honourable Commissioner,
FOR: Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Kaduna State Government.
