The Adamawa State Government has inaugurated a $525,000 World Bank agricultural intervention project aimed at supporting farmers, enhancing food security, and addressing climate change challenges.
Speaking at the launch in Yola on Wednesday, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri stated that the initiative seeks to reduce vulnerability and build resilience across communities in the state.
Represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta, Fintiri noted that the intervention would establish a continuous cycle of business activities, creating an economic safety net for local communities and the state as a whole.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting World Bank projects through the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative, assuring stakeholders of strict monitoring, evaluation, and control measures to ensure the project’s success.
The governor also urged the Federal Government to embark on the desilting of River Benue to improve international water transport, irrigation, and other economic activities.
Earlier, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized that the partnership between the federal government and Adamawa State under the ACReSAL project is designed to boost food security nationwide.
He explained that the initiative covers all 774 local government areas (LGAs) in Nigeria, with each benefiting according to its comparative and competitive advantages.
“Farmers will receive support in cultivating high-yield crops, which will lower production costs. Modern technology will also be introduced to ensure food meets required nutritional standards,” Abdullahi stated.
Similarly, Dr. Ibrahim Chinda, ACReSAL State Coordinator, highlighted that the project would promote sustainability in natural resource management while addressing deforestation and climate change challenges.
Meanwhile, Malam Raji Isa, a beneficiary and farmer from Saminaka Cooperative Society, commended the intervention, stating that it would significantly improve livelihoods and boost local businesses.
(NAN)