By Abigael Ifelayo
Gifsep partners with the Embassy of France to equip persons with disabilities in Nasarawa with urban gardens and fruit trees for food security and climate resilience
The Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation, Gifsep, on Friday launched an urban gardening and tree planting initiative for Persons With Disabilities, PWDs, in Nasarasa State.
Gifsep Executive Director, Dr Michael David, disclosed this during the commemoration of the 2026 World Environment Day, WED, and a tree planting exercise in Shabu Development Area, Lafia, Nasarawa State.
David said the initiative was implemented with support from the Embassy of France in Nigeria, as part of Gifsep’s #Food4PWDs campaign.
“Gifsep’s #Food4PWDs campaign seeks to strengthen food security, improve livelihoods, and build climate resilience among PWDs, who are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change,” he said.
“Climate change, land degradation, and rising food prices are disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, especially PWDs, who are often excluded from climate adaptation and livelihood programmes.
“At Gifsep, we believe climate justice must be inclusive and that no one should be left behind in the transition to a sustainable future.”
He added that participating PWDs would receive Urban Garden Starter Kits containing vegetable seeds and seedlings, organic manure, watering cans, hand tools, and sacks for sack farming.
He said the kits would enable beneficiaries to establish home gardens and grow nutritious vegetables in limited spaces, thereby improving household food security and nutrition.
“Fruit tree seedlings will also be distributed and planted to restore degraded land, promote agroforestry, and strengthen the climate resilience of beneficiaries and their communities.
“These economic trees will provide environmental benefits while serving as long-term sources of food and income,” he said.
David noted that World Environment Day is a reminder that environmental sustainability and social inclusion must go hand in hand.
“Through this initiative, we are not just distributing seeds and tree seedlings; we are planting hope, promoting dignity, and building resilience.” — Dr Michael David, Gifsep Executive Director
The executive director regretted that PWDs are often the most affected by climate change yet receive the least support.
“Food security is climate security, and climate action must leave no one behind,” he reiterated.
David expressed Gifsep’s appreciation to the Embassy of France in Nigeria for supporting inclusive climate action and sustainable development.
“This partnership underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in empowering vulnerable communities and advancing environmental stewardship,” he said.
He urged governments, development partners, civil society organisations, and the private sector to invest more in community-led, inclusive, and nature-based solutions.
“As Nigeria grapples with climate change, food insecurity, and land degradation, Gifsep remains committed to supporting vulnerable populations and protecting ecosystems, in line with its mandate,” he said.
“Together, we can build resilient communities, restore degraded landscapes, and ensure that every Nigerian has the opportunity to live with dignity and thrive in a changing climate.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the project activities held from June 18 to 19 and featured practical demonstrations on urban gardening, distribution of starter kits, and community tree planting.
