In a major step toward improving sanitation and promoting sustainable waste management, the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has commissioned a waste management facility in Wako community and handed over 14 tricycles to enhance waste collection in Sheda, both located in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at the commissioning, the Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat (ARDS), Abdullahi Ango, urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the facilities to boost sanitation and stimulate economic growth within their communities.
Ango, who also chairs the FCT ACReSAL Project Committee, noted that the intervention was not limited to Kwali but extends across all six Area Councils of the FCT.
“The provision of waste management facilities and tricycles to Community Interest Groups (CIGs) is aimed at improving hygiene, preventing disease outbreaks, and promoting a cleaner environment,” he stated.
He explained that the beneficiary groups were carefully selected through a needs assessment process based on their active engagement in community sanitation. He also revealed that more projects are underway to address other environmental and agricultural challenges in the area councils.
The FCT ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Mrs. Caroline Opara, said the initiative is part of efforts to end open defecation, enhance community health, and empower rural residents economically.
“The tricycles were given to Community Interest Groups that have shown strong commitment to maintaining clean surroundings. This initiative will not only reduce indiscriminate dumping of waste but also boost their livelihoods,” Opara said.
She further disclosed that ACReSAL is planning an erosion control project in Gwagwalada Area Council as part of ongoing environmental resilience efforts.
The Etsu Wako, Abdulazeez Usman, commended ACReSAL and the FCT Administration for bringing development projects closer to rural dwellers.
“This initiative is a welcome development and a thing of joy to our people. We will ensure the facility is protected and used for its intended purpose,” he assured.
In her remarks, Amina Mustapha, representing the National Project Coordinator, said the intervention would go a long way in improving public health and environmental sustainability across the FCT.
The ACReSAL project, jointly supported by the Federal Government and development partners, continues to drive climate resilience, sanitation, and community-based development initiatives in Nigeria’s semi-arid regions.
