FIC Report (Nasarawa State) – Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has commenced the disbursement of $250, 000 World Bank facilitated Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) loan to 620 farmers drawn from 10 communities in the state.
Speaking at the event in Doma Local Government Area (LGA) the Governor said that the disbursement was in line with the vision of the state and Federal Government to support farmers to boost food production.
He said that, the state government had recently distributed 23 tractors and farm inputs to 10, 000 farmers in the state to support farming.
Sule explained that the ACReSAL loan is a revolving and interest free given to farmers to boost their agricultural output as well as improving the livelihood of the beneficiaries.
He said that the 10 benefiting communities were from Doma and Toto Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.
The governor added that climate change has brought so many challenges to the environment as well as the livelihood of farmers.
He said that his administration would continue to collaborate with partners to provide resources and support that would cushion the effect of climate change and tackle poverty in the state.
“To this end, we are partnering with the Federal Government, World Bank through ACReSAL project help vulnerable communities to adapt to the impact of climate change.
“We expect this support to lead to food security, improve income of the communities and generate employment.
“Enhance farmers and communities capacity for climate smart agriculture through technology and innovation and enhance understanding of sustainable agricultural practices to help address conflicts,” Sule added.
Gov. Sule expressed appreciation for the selection of Nasarawa State among the right piloting states for the scheme.
He said that the state government would support farmers to implement community climate resilient initiatives beyond the lifespan of the ACReSAL project.
He therefore urged the beneficiaries to utilize the funds for the purpose it was meant for.
On her part, Dr Joy Iganya-Agene- Task Team Leader ACReSAL said that 620 farmers comprising 367 male and 253 female from the 10 communities of the two LGAs were given the free interest agricultural loan.
Iganya-Agene who is also a Senior Environmental Specialist World Bank Nigeria Office said five communities from each of the two LGA benefited from the loan.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Andoma of Doma, Aliyu Ogah, expressed gratitude to the state government and the organization, noting that the gesture would help in improving productivity of farmers in the benefiting communities.
Ari, Liman Aminu.
HOC, FEDERAL INFORMATION CENTRE, LAFIA.
