Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, officially launched the Agro-Climatic Resilience Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project in Plateau State, a World Bank initiative aimed at bolstering the state’s agricultural and environmental resilience. The event took place on Thursday at Crispan Hotel, Jos, where the Governor emphasized his commitment to delivering tangible benefits from all projects and programs undertaken in the state.

Governor Mutfwang’s unwavering determination to complete all World Bank projects, regardless of their locations, highlights his administration’s dedication to improving the living conditions of the people. Addressing the project coordinators, he urged them to ensure value for money in every endeavor and stressed the importance of the ACReSAL project in replenishing the land for agricultural purposes.

“Water is a lifeline for survival, and we will ensure its proper distribution, especially in areas facing water scarcity, to meet both drinking and irrigation needs. Government ministries will collaborate seamlessly to ensure the successful implementation of these projects,” Governor Mutfwang remarked.

The Governor expressed confidence that the successful completion of the projects would yield additional employment opportunities for the youth in the state, furthering economic growth and prosperity.

He conveyed his appreciation to the World Bank for providing financing, even though the funds are in the form of a loan that will be repaid. Governor Mutfwang encouraged project coordinators to utilize the available resources wisely, ensuring the projects’ sustainability in the long run.

Moreover, the Governor lauded the World Bank’s support for various projects that have positively impacted child nutrition and empowered young girls in Plateau State to pursue their dreams.

Governor Mutfwang also revealed plans to revisit the social register of the most vulnerable citizens in rural communities to ensure that deserving individuals receive the government’s assistance.

In response, the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Shubham Chadhuri, pledged the Bank’s commitment to support the Plateau State Government in financing projects that will make a significant difference in the lives of the people. He reaffirmed the World Bank’s dedication to promoting climate resilience, tackling issues such as insecurity, land degradation, and water scarcity, with the ultimate aim of improving the quality of life for Nigerian citizens.

The Gbong Gwom Jos, Da. Jacob Gyang Buba, also called for enhanced collaboration between the government, traditional rulers, and citizens in addressing environmental challenges facing the state. He stressed the need for synergy among the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Land and Survey, and the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) to combat environmental degradation effectively.

As the ACReSAL project sets in motion, Plateau State looks forward to harnessing its agricultural potential, enhancing environmental sustainability, and uplifting the lives of its people through the World Bank’s support and the Governor’s visionary leadership.

By Gyang Bere

Director of Press and Public Affairs to Executive Governor of Plateau State

27th July 2023.