Governor Ododo Champions Climate-Smart Agriculture and Inclusive Climate Policy in Kogi State
In a landmark step toward agricultural innovation and environmental sustainability, the Kogi State Government, under the dynamic leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, has launched a dual-pronged initiative: empowering farmers through climate-resilient oil palm production and deepening grassroots engagement for the formulation of the state’s first climate change policy.
Climate-Smart Oil Palm Training Sparks Hope for Agro-Economic Growth
At the Auditorium of the College of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Kabba, the state flagged off a climate-smart oil palm production training workshop aimed at equipping farmers with adaptive techniques to tackle climate-related challenges. Inaugurated by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojoma (represented by Director of Agricultural Services, Mr. Kunle Agbana), the event marks a bold step in promoting sustainable agriculture and food security.
Addressing participants, Ojoma highlighted the urgent need for resilience-focused farming methods in light of unpredictable rainfall and shifting agricultural calendars. He also reaffirmed Governor Ododo’s unwavering commitment to agricultural transformation, referencing the tractorization of over 8,000 hectares of farmland and the distribution of free inputs to 88,000 farmers—milestones that have redefined rural livelihoods in Kogi.
“Through this training and the introduction of traceable, export-ready systems, we are positioning Kogi as a front-runner in Nigeria’s agro-industrial development,” Ojoma emphasized.
Notably, 1,000 improved oil palm seedlings, worth ₦2.5 million, were distributed to farmers in Kogi West Senatorial District, with a replication plan set for Kogi East. Olusegun Solomon, Director at the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), praised the initiative as a catalyst for job creation and economic diversification, noting that every component of the oil palm tree holds global market value.
Moses Olorunnipa, Chairman of the Kogi West Oil Palm Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society, described the intervention as a game-changer, especially for the youth. He called for collective investments in processing equipment to unlock the industry’s full potential.
Traditional Leaders Join Climate Policy Conversation in Lokoja
Parallel to the agricultural drive, the state government also intensified its climate policy consultation process by engaging traditional institutions in Lokoja. On Day 3 of the ongoing week-long stakeholder dialogue, the Kogi State Government and its technical partner, ACRES Group, paid a courtesy visit to the Maigari of Lokoja, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV, to integrate indigenous perspectives into policy development.
Led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change, Hon. Michael Onimisi Ajibade—representing Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun—the delegation reiterated the administration’s vision of a participatory, community-centered climate strategy.
“His Excellency Governor Ododo is committed to building a policy that is not just on paper, but deeply rooted in the lived realities of our people,” Ajibade remarked, underscoring the significance of grassroots voices in crafting a responsive and relevant climate framework.
Professor Jimmy Adegoke, Managing Partner of ACRES Group, provided a comprehensive overview of the stakeholder engagement process, which includes consultations, field assessments, and knowledge-sharing sessions. He emphasized that aligning scientific strategies with traditional wisdom is crucial to addressing environmental vulnerabilities across Kogi.
During the visit, the ACRES team conducted a structured interview with the Maigari’s representative, Alhaji Lawal Aliu Jiya (the Mayaki of Lokoja), who lauded the inclusive approach and pledged full support from the traditional council. He stressed the importance of empowering local communities to champion climate action and preserve the environment for future generations.
A Vision Rooted in Inclusion and Sustainability
Governor Ododo’s administration is proving that climate change adaptation and agricultural transformation are not mutually exclusive but deeply interconnected. By equipping farmers with climate-smart techniques and involving traditional leaders in policy creation, the government is laying a strong foundation for a resilient, prosperous, and environmentally conscious Kogi State.
From the farms of Kabba to the royal palace in Lokoja, the resounding message is clear: Kogi State is on the move—empowering its people, preserving its environment, and securing its future.
