The Bauchi State Project Management Unit of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has engaged contractors, environmental consultants and security personnel to strengthen security arrangements at ongoing gully erosion and flood control project sites across the state.
The engagement, chaired by the State Project Coordinator, Dr Ibrahim Kabir, was held at the project’s conference room and attended by members of the ACReSAL Safeguards Team, Triacta Nigeria Limited, Harmony Envi Plan Limited and the security outfit engaged for the project.
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Discussions focused on addressing security concerns at project sites, including personnel profiling, proper documentation, workers’ welfare, deployment and supervision of security personnel, and clear definition of responsibilities for effective responses to security threats.
The stakeholders also examined measures to safeguard workers, equipment, machinery and host communities throughout the implementation of the projects.
Speaking during the meeting, the Project Manager of Triacta Nigeria Limited, Mr Joseph Samaha, said the company would organise training for its workers and improve their welfare, including the provision of uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE).
He also appreciated the surrounding communities for their support and cooperation towards the successful execution of the projects.
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Similarly, the Team Lead of Harmony Envi Plan Limited, Engr Bashir Babayo, stressed the importance of honesty, transparency and commitment among personnel working at the project sites.
He urged security operatives to discharge their responsibilities in accordance with established rules of engagement and called on Triacta Nigeria Limited to ensure adequate training and sensitisation of both workers and security personnel.
In their separate contributions, the safeguards teams of ACReSAL, Triacta Nigeria Limited and Harmony Envi Plan Limited emphasised the need for proper documentation, improved workers’ welfare, effective stakeholder engagement and strict compliance with environmental, social and labour safeguards.
They also called for regular training and retraining of personnel to strengthen operational standards and achieve the project’s objectives.
In his closing remarks, the State Project Coordinator, Dr Ibrahim Kabir, issued directives on activities required to improve security arrangements across the project sites.
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He assured stakeholders of continued guidance and support to ensure adequate safety and security throughout project implementation.
The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by Bauchi ACReSAL to strengthen project safeguards, protect investments and promote the successful implementation of erosion control and environmental restoration initiatives.