By Obiabin Onukwugha
The federal government has flagged off a major distribution of critical resilience assets under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSALNigeria) project in Taraba State.
The federal government also lauded Taraba state for its commitment in implementing ACReSAL projects.
Speaking during the handover of the assets in Jalingo, Taraba state capital at the weekend, Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas, described the event as a significant milestone in the federal government’s efforts to combat climate change and land degradation, saying he is proud to be part of it.
Abbas emphasized that events like this mark real, tangible progress toward building a more climate-resilient and prosperous Nigeria.
He said: “The ACReSAL initiative, generously supported by the World Bank and focused on the drylands of northern Nigeria, is helping us restore degraded lands, secure the livelihoods of vulnerable communities, and safeguard our environment for future generations.”
He revealed that the assets distributed under three components are strategic investments that aligned with ACReSAL’s core components.
“Under Component A (Dryland Management), we handed over 100 power tillers to Community Interest Groups and 20 tractors to all Local Government Areas. These will help modernize farming practices and promote sustainable land use across Taraba. We also provided a swamp buggy and low-bed equipment to maintain the Bobboji and Ndibam water channels—vital infrastructure that protects our communities from erosion and flooding.
“Under Component B (Community Climate Resilience), we distributed 1,500 clean cookstoves and solar-powered pumps. These tools will drive the adoption of clean energy, improve public health, ease pressure on our forests by reducing deforestation, and enable more sustainable irrigation for our farmers.
“In Component C (Institutional Strengthening), I commissioned renovated buildings and handed over brand-new Hilux vehicles to the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, and Water Resources, as well as to the Taraba Environmental Protection Agency (TEPA). We also delivered modern laboratory equipment to TEPA, significantly boosting their long-term capacity to monitor and protect our natural resources,” the minister stated.
He extended appreciation to the governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his steadfast support and visionary leadership, saying, “It is his commitment that has truly laid the foundation for the remarkable advancements we are seeing with ACReSAL here in Taraba.”
He also commended the State Steering Committee, the State Technical Committee, and the State Project Management Unit for their excellent cross-sectoral coordination in bringing together environment, agriculture, and water resources sectors to deliver meaningful benefits directly to the local communities.
“I am equally grateful to the World Bank for its enduring partnership. Their technical rigor, strict adherence to environmental and social standards, and results-oriented approach ensure that this project will deliver lasting value long after its formal close,” he stated.
The Minister highlighted that with the project’s Mid-Term Review fast approaching, that Taraba stands out as one of the leading performers in ACReSAL implementation nationwide.
“The assets flagged off today will feature prominently when we report to our partners, demonstrating concrete delivery on our commitments to expand sustainable landscape management across northern Nigeria,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Minister said, ACReSAL is scheduled to conclude on March 31, 2028. “I am therefore calling on the Taraba State Government and all stakeholders to urgently develop and prioritize a robust sustainability plan; one that emphasizes local ownership and institutionalized maintenance frameworks so that these tractors, laboratory equipment, restored water channels, and other assets continue to serve our communities for decades to come.
“This is not just about today’s handover; it is about securing a resilient tomorrow for Taraba and for Nigeria,” the Minister stated.