The World Bank has praised the impact of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes programme in Gombe State, describing the interventions as impressive and transformative. The commendation came after a World Bank delegation visited the state for project inspection and community engagement. During the visit, the team assessed several initiatives, including the FCE(T) gully control catchment, greenhouse facilities, fishponds, and a solar-powered borehole at Jauro Abare, where women are actively involved in farming and other livelihood activities.
World Bank Regional Director for Planet, Chakib Jenane, and Marina Wes, Director of Strategy and Operations, said the quality of work and community support efforts show strong progress. They also explained that the Bank is working with Nigeria’s Federal Government on a new country framework that will focus on domestic resource mobilization, agriculture, and major development priorities.
Representing Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, the Commissioner for Environment, Water Resources and Forestry, Mohammed Saidu Fawu, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustainable development. He thanked the World Bank for its ongoing support and appealed for more interventions to reach additional communities. Fawu stated that all funds released for the projects were used properly, noting that earlier partnerships of this scale could have fast-tracked Gombe’s development.
ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Dr. Sani Adamu Jauro, highlighted key achievements of the programme. These include the reclamation of degraded lands, improved water harvesting, protection of lives and property, job creation through livelihood activities, and environmental protection measures such as tree planting and the distribution of eco-friendly stoves.
Beneficiaries also expressed appreciation to the World Bank, the Gombe State Government, and ACReSAL, stating that the projects have transformed their lives, improved self-reliance, and provided stable sources of income.
The visit reflects the World Bank’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable results, while reinforcing Gombe State’s dedication to resilience, agriculture, and environmental protection.
