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In a major boost for climate-resilient agriculture, 101 communities in Yobe State, northeastern Nigeria, have each received a non-interest loan of $25,000 (approximately ₦38.3 million) under the World Bank-supported Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project.
The disbursement forms part of a Community Revolving Fund (CRF) designed to enhance farming productivity and economic sustainability across the region.
The announcement was made in Damaturu, the state’s capital, by the ACReSAL State Coordinator, Alhaji Shehu Mohammed, during a Memorandum of Acceptance signing ceremony with the benefiting communities.
Mohammed explained that the current scale-up phase will benefit 482 farmer and community groups, comprising 7,340 direct participants—4,857 men and 2,483 women. The total fund disbursed amounts to $2.525 million (roughly ₦3.8 billion).
He described the initiative as a crucial step towards strengthening agricultural resilience and improving livelihoods in Yobe’s 17 Local Government Areas, particularly among climate-vulnerable populations.
The CRF, which follows a successful pilot programme involving 10 communities, is intended to stimulate local economic activity, boost farmer incomes, and instil principles of financial responsibility.
“This event is more than a ceremonial signing. It signals a new phase of sustainability and resilience-building for our farming communities,” said Mohammed.
He added that the World Bank granted a “no objection” to the scale-up phase after a 65 per cent recovery rate was recorded from the pilot scheme, reflecting strong community commitment.
The initiative aligns with ACReSAL’s broader objectives to combat environmental degradation and promote climate-smart farming practices in northern Nigeria.
Mohammed praised Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni for his consistent support of the project’s successful implementation, as well as the contributions of the World Bank, the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU), the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Yobe State House of Assembly, and community leaders.
Also speaking at the event, Alhaji Sidi Karasuwa, Yobe’s Commissioner for Environment and Chair of the State Steering Committee, hailed the programme as a transformative milestone for rural agriculture and development.
He recalled that the symbolic presentation of CRF cheques by Governor Buni in January marked the start of the current phase, following earlier interventions in two micro-watersheds.
“This fund is more than financial support; it is a tool for transformation. It enables our farmers to expand operations, adopt modern techniques, and increase productivity,” Karasuwa said.
He urged beneficiaries to make responsible use of the funds, adhere to approved business plans, and prioritise prompt repayment to maintain the revolving nature of the scheme.
“To our farmers, let this loan be the seed that grows into a flourishing harvest of success. Use it judiciously and ensure timely repayment as agreed in your plans to prevent your communities from losing future access,” he added.
Karasuwa reaffirmed the Yobe State Government’s commitment to building an agricultural sector that is resilient to climate shocks and capable of uplifting rural communities through increased productivity and economic empowerment.
