The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project has begun its pre-midterm review to assess progress since its implementation across the 19 participating states in Nigeria.
Dr. Ibrahim Kabir, Chairman of State Coordinators of ACReSAL, said the review aims to evaluate performance and provide feedback to the federal project management unit for onward communication to the World Bank.
He made the disclosure on Monday in Jos during the opening of the eight-day pre-midterm review meeting. Kabir, who also serves as ACReSAL State Coordinator in Bauchi, explained that the project, which began three years ago, has a six-year lifespan.
He noted that the review is essential to assess achievements, challenges, and key indicators related to land restoration, climate-resilience interventions, watershed management, and community-level environmental improvements.
“These pre-midterm reviews are standard procedures for all World Bank implementation projects. They help us determine if set targets in the 19 states and the FCT have been achieved, identify gaps, and address emerging issues in agriculture, environment, and water resources,” he said.
According to Kabir, 70 per cent of the $700 million budgeted for the project has already been expended.
Mr. Garba Gonkol, ACReSAL Project Coordinator in Plateau State, said the initiative has significantly impacted local communities since its implementation.
Plateau Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Peter Gwom, added that the project has delivered tangible benefits, including the restoration of degraded landscapes, improved water resources and watershed management, strengthened agricultural productivity, creation of green jobs, and increased environmental awareness. He commended ACReSAL for aligning with the state government’s vision of building a greener, safer, and more prosperous Plateau.
It was reported that Mr. Abdulhamid Umar, ACReSAL National Project Coordinator, was represented by Mr. Abdulaziz Abubakar.
The pre-midterm review commenced on December 8 and is scheduled to conclude on December 13.
