9 Kebbi Communities Receive N360 Million Soft Loan from ACReSAL To Mitigate Climate Impact

No fewer than 1,800 residents from nine flood-affected communities in Kebbi State have received a N360 million soft loan from the Agro-Climate Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative. The fund aims to support farmers in addressing land degradation and climate change impacts.

During the disbursement ceremony at Government House, Birnin Kebbi on Friday, Governor Nasir Idris highlighted the significance of the loan in aiding farmers to manage the challenges posed by climate change. He urged beneficiaries to utilize the funds effectively and ensure timely repayment to allow others to benefit from similar support.

“This assistance can improve your livelihood and support your community. Use it wisely and make sure to repay promptly,” Governor Idris stated.

He further encouraged farmers across the state to embrace dry season farming to offset losses from recent floods, adding that the government is preparing to provide irrigation farmers with fertilizers and other essential inputs.

“Our administration remains committed to supporting the people because it is a government by the people and for the people,” he emphasized.

In his remarks, ACReSAL National Coordinator, Alhaji AbdulHamid Umar, described the program as a collaboration between the World Bank and the Federal Government, focused on promoting agriculture and combating desertification.

Task Team Leader Dr. Joy Agene noted that their presence in Kebbi is part of World Bank support aimed at addressing Nigeria’s socioeconomic challenges.

ACReSAL State Coordinator, Alhaji Ahmed Isa-Tela, explained that the nine selected communities are part of an initial batch, with 51 additional communities in Kebbi on standby for future support.

He reminded beneficiaries of the importance of prompt loan repayment to enable expansion of the program to others.

Highlight of the event was Governor Nasir Idris presenting cheques to the beneficiaries.

Credit: Yahaya Sarki
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Kebbi State Governor.