By Ahmed Abba
In a transformative initiative to strengthen agricultural resilience, the World Bank has allocated $2.525 million (approximately N3.8 billion) in non-interest loans to 101 communities across Yobe State through the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) Project.
Each community will receive $25,000 (about N38.3 million) to foster climate-smart farming and enhance rural livelihoods, as announced during a Memorandum of Acceptance signing ceremony in Damaturu on July 2, 2025.
The ACRESAL State Coordinator, Alhaji Shehu Mohammed, highlighted that the initiative will directly benefit 7,340 individuals, including 4,857 men and 2,483 women across 482 farmer and community groups spanning Yobe’s 17 Local Government Areas.
This phase follows a successful pilot that disbursed funds to 10 communities, achieving a 65% loan recovery rate, which prompted the World Bank to approve the expanded rollout.
The programme aims to empower climate-vulnerable communities by boosting economic activity, increasing farmers’ incomes, and promoting sustainable financial practices.
It aligns with the World Bank’s broader objectives to combat environmental degradation and advance climate-smart agriculture in Northern Nigeria.
Mohammed emphasized the initiative’s significance, stating that it represents a pivotal step toward building sustainable, resilient farming communities.
Yobe State’s Commissioner for Environment and Chairman of the State Steering Committee, Alhaji Sidi Karasuwa, described the funding as a catalyst for agricultural transformation and rural empowerment.
He noted that the initiative, which began with a symbolic cheque presentation by Governor Mai Mala Buni in January, builds on earlier interventions in two micro-watersheds.
Karasuwa urged beneficiaries to adhere to approved business plans and repay loans promptly to sustain the revolving fund’s viability, ensuring future access for other communities.
The state government’s commitment to fostering a resilient agricultural sector was reaffirmed, with Karasuwa emphasizing the fund’s role in enabling farmers to adopt modern techniques, expand operations, and boost productivity while mitigating climate challenges.
Mohammed also praised Governor Buni’s leadership and acknowledged the support of the World Bank, the Federal Project Management Unit, the Ministry of Environment, the Yobe State House of Assembly, and local leaders in driving the project’s success. (NAN)
