Kebbi starts erosion control work in two Birnin Kebbi communities

Kebbi State has begun erosion control work in Badariya and Dukku Mallah communities in Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area, the state capital.

Governor Nasir Idris flagged off the project on Wednesday. He said it is meant to tackle erosion that has been threatening homes, property and farmlands in the two communities.

The work is being carried out under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, a World Bank-assisted programme that supports states in fighting environmental degradation and building resilience in vulnerable areas.

Idris said the project was not part of his campaign promises, but his administration decided to go ahead because of its importance to the safety and economic wellbeing of residents.

“The successful completion of this project will significantly reduce erosion problems in the affected communities, protect farmlands and create a more conducive environment for agricultural activities,” the governor said at the ceremony.

He said he has confidence in the contractor, describing the firm as a reputable multinational company with experience in erosion control.

What residents should expect

Idris said his government will monitor the work closely to ensure it meets approved specifications and is completed on time. He asked residents of the benefiting communities to cooperate with the contractor and project officials, and to help protect the infrastructure once it is finished.

Residents who attended the flag-off commended the governor, calling the intervention timely relief from erosion that has threatened their homes, farmlands and livelihoods.

For farmers and families in the area, the promise is simple: less land washed away, safer homes and better conditions for farming. How much of that promise is kept will depend on how the work is supervised and finished.

The sources differ slightly on the communities covered. Vanguard named Badariya and Dukku Mallah, while Leadership referred to Badariya and Malala, and also described the project as one that had been abandoned. The outlets also reported the governor's remarks differently: Vanguard included his comment that the project was not among his campaign promises, while Leadership did not.

What happens next

Work is already under way, with the state promising supervision and monitoring until completion. Residents will be watching to see whether the project holds up through the coming rainy seasons.