Alia commissions 33 tractors for smart agricultural activities

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, commissioned 33 new tractors and distributed N380 million to community groups for climate-smart agricultural activities under the ACReSAL scheme. He emphasized his administration’s commitment by contributing N1 billion as a counterpart fund for the program. Alia announced the creation of ACReSAL as a new state agency to address environmental challenges and improve livelihoods. World Bank and ACReSAL officials praised the state’s progress, highlighting the project’s success in boosting agricultural production and community resilience. Source: Authority

Our Review

Governor Hyacinth Alia’s commissioning of 33 tractors and disbursement of N380 million for climate-smart agricultural activities under the ACReSAL program marks a significant step towards enhancing agricultural resilience in Benue State. The initiative, supported by a substantial N1 billion counterpart fund, underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges, improving agricultural productivity, and boosting community livelihoods. The creation of ACReSAL as a state agency aims to ensure sustained knowledge transfer and skill development, vital for long-term environmental and agricultural resilience. The success of ACReSAL, as noted by World Bank representatives, highlights effective collaboration and governance. The program’s focus on landscape management, community resilience, and institutional strengthening aligns with broader goals of poverty reduction and sustainable development. The impact of the commissioned tractors, benefiting over 33,000 households, coupled with the Community Revolving Fund, is expected to significantly enhance agricultural output and community well-being. This initiative sets a commendable precedent for integrated approaches to climate change adaptation and sustainable agriculture, essential for regions facing similar environmental and socio-economic challenges.