The World Bank-backed Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, operating under the Federal Capital Territory Protect Implementation Unit, has acquired tractors to enhance agricultural production in Kwali Area Council, a region within the Federal Capital Territory. Mr. Lawan Geidam, who holds the position of Mandate Secretary for the Agricultural and Rural Development Secretariat within the FCT Administration, revealed this information during an engagement session with community members from the Wako-Pukafa Catchment Area of the council. This event took place on Thursday.
Furthermore, Geidam, who also serves as the Chairman of the Technical Committee overseeing the project in the FCT, stated that solar-powered boreholes have been constructed by the initiative to support the agricultural development in the area.
Mrs. Grace Adayilo, standing in for Mr. Lawan Geidam, elaborated that the tractors and boreholes were provided as part of the project’s livelihood support initiative. Geidam highlighted that a total of eight solar-powered boreholes have been installed across various communities within Kwali Area Council to offer sustainable water sources for both agricultural and domestic purposes.
He emphasized that these boreholes will guarantee a consistent water supply throughout the year, enabling the cultivation of crops and sustaining the local communities.
Geidam mentioned that various inputs, such as improved seedlings, fertilizers, and pesticides, will soon be distributed among the farmers. The primary objective behind this distribution is to enhance their efficiency, increase crop yields, combat pest invasions, and maintain fertile and productive soil for future generations. Addressing the challenges posed by climate change, which significantly impact food security, is a crucial aspect of their collaboration with the World Bank.
He expressed satisfaction in witnessing their efforts materialize through actions, as demonstrated by the ongoing community engagement and the beginning of the new planting season. Geidam emphasized the importance of capacity building, investments in natural resources management, good agricultural practices, and climate adaptation to strengthen the resilience of communities.
During the event, Dr. Joy Agene, representing the World Bank-supported ACReSAL project’s Task Team, encouraged the community members to take ownership of the project and actively participate in its success.
During the event, Dr. Joy Agene, who was represented by Ms. Ugonne Wunyi, an official of the project, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the success of the ACReSAL project. As a project of the Federal Republic of Nigeria supported by the World Bank, Agene highlighted that the community members play a vital role in achieving the desired outcomes, including improved livelihoods, farm produce, and a better environment.
The Project Coordinator in FCT, Mrs. Caroline Opara, explained that the purpose of the community engagement was to educate the residents about the project and its various interventions. Given that ACReSAL is a community-driven initiative, it is crucial for the residents to understand how to effectively implement the project within their local communities.
In response, the chairman of the council, Mr. Danladi Chiya, expressed his gratitude towards the project implementation team and the FCTA for their efforts in enhancing the living conditions of rural dwellers. Represented by Mr. Bala Malami, the Supervisory Councillor for Agricultural Services, Chiya pledged the council’s ongoing support to ensure the project’s success.
