The Benue ACReSAL Project has commenced the pilot distribution of climate-smart agricultural implements to selected communities in Makurdi and Guma Local Government Areas, marking a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity and climate resilience across the state.
The initiative aims to enable communities to harness the abundant water resources in Benue State—particularly the River Benue—to boost food production and promote sustainable dry-season farming.
The State Project Coordinator, Bldr. Victor Ama, represented by the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Engr. Samson Naakaa encouraged beneficiaries to align with the State Government’s drive toward agricultural transformation and increased food production. He urged residents of Fiidi in Makurdi LGA and the Pass Brother community near Abinsi in Guma LGA to leverage their proximity to the river by embracing year-round farming practices.
The distribution exercise featured a practical demonstration of a solar-powered pumping system, highlighting efficient, climate-resilient irrigation technology designed to support continuous cultivation. Items distributed included water pumps, solar panels, inlet and outlet hoses, knapsack sprayers, irrigation guns, and related accessories.
In Guma LGA, the ACReSAL team was received by Chief Joseph Akor Ortese, District Head of Mbawa, who expressed appreciation for the intervention and reaffirmed his community’s commitment to expanding dry-season farming activities. He also commended the Executive Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his people-centered policies and sustained support for impactful initiatives such as ACReSAL.
The Ter Guma, His Royal Highness Dennis Shemberga, represented by Mr. Joo Philip, Secretary of the Guma Traditional Council, similarly conveyed gratitude to the Governor and the ACReSAL Project, while appealing for the expansion and sustainability of the intervention across more communities in Guma.
Accompanying the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer were the Social Livelihood Officer, Anna Okoh, the Drought and Desertification Officer, Engr. Emmanuel Olofo, the Natural Resources Officer, Hilakaan Hiorga Peter, the Agriculture Officer, Aorga Godwin, the Digital Communication and Media Assistant, Usaka Iortyom, and the staff of Community Links Human Empowerment Initiative, Benue ACReSAL’s FONGO for Zone B.