By Abbas Nazil
The Kogi State government has allocated N3 billion to support 2,381 direct beneficiaries across 170 groups in 80 communities impacted by climate change.
The funds, disbursed as part of the Community Revolving Fund under the Agro-climate Resilience in Semi-arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, aim to bolster sustainable agricultural practices and food security. This initiative is in collaboration with the World Bank Group.
While presenting a cheque for they amount in Lokoja, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed UsmanOdodo, reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the success of the ACReSAL project.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the state’s broader agenda of sustainable landscape management and integrated climate resilience, targeting communities in all 21 local government areas of Kogi State.
The governor acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to sustainable agricultural development and improving the welfare of families nationwide.
The Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engineer Joseph Oluwasegun, highlighted the project’s potential to position Kogi as a model for food security and sufficiency in Nigeria.
He urged beneficiaries to manage the funds responsibly, ensuring that the initiative continues to benefit more members of their communities.
Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto, the State Coordinator of ACReSAL, explained that the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) is an interest-free investment initiative.
The first phase, launched in June 2024, supported over 2,381 direct beneficiaries and demonstrated effective fund utilization, which led to the approval of the second phase by the World Bank Task Team.
She called on beneficiaries to maximize the fund’s potential, emphasizing that it is a loan guaranteed by the state government and that its sustainability relies on diligent repayment and responsible use.
The CRF aims to increase the adoption of sustainable landscape practices and enhance agricultural resilience in communities grappling with climate change. Governor Ododo commended the efforts of all stakeholders involved and assured continuous government support for the program.
He urged the benefiting groups to demonstrate accountability and ensure the revolving fund serves as a model for sustainable community development.
This initiative reinforces the government’s collaborative approach with international partners to enhance resilience in semi-arid regions, providing a blueprint for other states in Nigeria to emulate