By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
In a significant move to empower rural communities and promote sustainable agriculture practices, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has presented a whopping N3 billion to 80 communities in the state. This gesture is part of the state’s efforts to address the challenges of climate change and support community agricultural endeavors.
The presentation, which took place at the Government House in Lokoja on Monday, December 30, 2024, saw Governor Ododo handing over cheques to over 2,381 direct beneficiaries in over 170 groups from the 80 communities impacted by climate change. These communities are part of the Agro-climate Resilience in Semi-arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, a partnership between the Kogi State government and the World Bank Group.
According to Governor Ododo, the Community Revolving Fund is in line with his administration’s commitment to ensuring food security and sustainable agricultural practices in the state. He assured that the state government will continue to provide an enabling environment for the success and sustenance of the ACReSAL project.
The Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing sustainable agriculture practices and enhancing the welfare of families across Nigeria. He also urged the benefiting groups and communities to utilize the fund diligently, ensuring that other community members continue to benefit from the project.
The Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, noted that the Community Revolving Fund seeks to place Kogi State on the map of states where food security and sufficiency are guaranteed in Nigeria.
The State Coordinator of ACReSAL, Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto, emphasized that the Community Revolving Fund is an interest-free investment fund that began with the first phase of its disbursement in June 2024, benefiting over 2,381 direct beneficiaries. She encouraged beneficiaries to make the best use of the fund, which is a loan from the World Bank under guaranteed repayment by the state government.
This initiative, in partnership with the World Bank, demonstrates the Governor’s commitment to the welfare of his people and his administration’s dedication to driving development and growth in the state. As the benefiting communities begin to utilize the fund, it is expected that the positive impact will be felt across the state, contributing to a brighter future for the people of Kogi State.
