ACReSAL NPC Dr. Umar Commends Stakeholders as Project Finalises Key Plans for Additional Funding

ACReSAL NPC Dr. Umar Commends Stakeholders as Project Finalises Key Plans for Additional Funding

The National Project Coordinator (NPC) of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, Dr. Abdulhamid Umar, has applauded Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), participating states and the World Bank for their technical contributions and collaboration in strengthening the project’s implementation framework ahead of the rollout of its Additional Financing.

Dr. Umar gave the commendation at the conclusion of the mission, appreciating the participating Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), representatives of the 19 participating states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU), for their active participation and constructive inputs throughout the exercise.

He also acknowledged the support of the World Bank Task Team Leader (TTL), Co-Task Team Leader (Co-TTL), and the entire World Bank team, describing them as competent partners whose technical guidance and continued support have remained invaluable to the successful implementation of the project.

The NPC further urged participants to convey the appreciation of the project to their respective state governors, supervising authorities, and Technical and Steering Committees for their support and commitment to the ACReSAL initiative.

Speaking on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Ada Chukwu emphasised the need for stronger synergy and sustained collaboration among the Federal Ministry of Finance, the FPMU, State Project Management Units (SPMUs), and the World Bank to ensure effective project delivery.

She expressed confidence that ACReSAL would emerge as a successful development initiative, stressing the importance of prudent financial management, fiduciary accountability, transparency, and value for money.

Mrs. Chukwu also emphasized the need for a robust and comprehensive Project Implementation Manual to provide the necessary framework for smooth implementation, particularly as the Additional Financing is expected to consolidate and deepen the gains already recorded under the project.

She reaffirmed the Ministry of Finance’s commitment to supporting ACReSAL, noting that the collective responsibility of all stakeholders goes beyond assessing and managing project financing to ensuring that resources translate into tangible benefits for communities, farmers, and the environment.

A major highlight of the four-day mission was the presentations by State Communications Officers on communication strategies and the visibility of project interventions and service delivery, underscoring the critical role of strategic communication in promoting awareness, public engagement, and accountability.

The mission provided an important platform for strengthening intergovernmental collaboration, harmonising implementation priorities, and consolidating the operational framework for the effective delivery of ACReSAL’s current and additional financing.