Nasarawa, ACReSAL partner to tackle climate change crisis

The Nasarawa State Ministry of Environment, in partnership with Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), have taken steps to combat the negative effects of climate change and support farmers in the state to boost food production.

This partnership was announced at hybrid stakeholders’ engagement and retreat, organised to evaluate the progress and impact of the ACReSAL projects in the state at Akwanga.

The Commissioner of Environment, Mr. Yakubu Kwanta, commended ACReSAL for the huge achievements recorded in 2024, in addressing environmental challenges and providing essential facilities to rural communities that have encouraged agricultural activities.

“The ACReSAL project has made significant strides in addressing environmental challenges, promoting climate-smart agriculture, and improving water resource management across the state.

“Through various initiatives, ACReSAL has supported Community Interest Groups (CIGs) in Doma and Toto local councils with $250,000 to enhance grassroots development. Infrastructure Development: Solar-powered boreholes have been rehabilitated in selected LGAs and schools in Gudi, ensuring access to clean water,” he said.

Kwanta, who is the chairman of the steering committee on project implementation of the ACReSAL in the state, noted that solar-powered streetlights and boreholes have been provided to 11 wards in Akwanga local council by the partner.

The state government hailed ACReSAL for the provision of 10 tractors with farm implements and agricultural inputs to empower farmers to adopt Climate-Smart Agricultural practices, boosting productivity and resilience.

Kwanta also disclosed that capacity building to relevant MDAs has been equipped with solar-powered lighting systems and ICT equipment to enhance their operational efficiency and service delivery by the ACReSAL this year.

In his remark, the state project coordinator of ACReSAL, Dr. Elias Napoleon, commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for providing and partnering ACReSAL to ensure full project implementation plans.

Napoleon disclosed that the collaboration has helped to ensure access to clean water and the successful rehabilitation of boreholes in selected communities across the local councils.

Napoleon said the interventions have directly addressed water challenges faced by many residents, significantly enhancing access to safe and potable water for domestic and agricultural use.

He stated that the initiatives are parts of the broader ACReSAL Project objectives, community resilience, promoting sustainable development, and improving the quality of life for citizens.

The project coordinator assured that ACReSAL is strategically positioned in the state to ensure palm oil is produced in commercial quantity through massive planting of highly improved palm seeds that are environmentally friendly, which will also provide afforestation in some communities already marked for next year.