Borno-Acresal

08/08/2026

Borno ACReSAL Conducts FAO Land Restoration, Community Sensitization in Tamsu-Kawu.

The Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has conducted a community sensitization and engagement exercise on Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)-supported land restoration in Tamsu-Kawu, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

The exercise was aimed at strengthening community participation, sensitizing farmers on their roles and responsibilities, reinforcing ownership of the restoration areas, and ensuring the sustained protection and maintenance of the restored land.

Speaking to community members, the FAO Desk Officer, Bukar Madu Goba, gave an overview of ACReSAL and its key areas of intervention. He explained that ACReSAL is a community-driven development programme that works directly with community members to address environmental and livelihood challenges.

Goba said the team was in Tamsu-Kawu to undertake land restoration through agroforestry activities. He explained that community members would be responsible for clearing the land, planting the seedlings and nurturing them to ensure proper growth.

He assured the community that the land would remain their property and would not be taken over by the organization, adding that the trees, once matured, would provide environmental and economic benefits to the community.

Also speaking, the Focal NGO and Executive Director of Global Environmental Response Initiative, Dr. Ngare Dogo, said the intervention was part of the efforts of the Borno State Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, to improve livelihoods and strengthen resilience in communities.

He encouraged community members to actively participate in the seedling-planting exercise, noting that they would be paid for each seedling successfully planted. He also urged the farmers to observe the recommended spacing of eight metres between trees to support healthy growth.

Among the tree species to be planted are Neem, Gum Arabic and Acacia senegal.

Speaking on behalf of the farmers, Bukar Gambomi expressed appreciation to the ACReSAL team for providing the seedlings and assured the team that community members would take responsibility for nurturing the trees until they mature.

He said the community was ready and committed to participating fully in the tree-planting exercise and ensuring that the seedlings grow successfully.

8th August, 2026
Timothy Butu Mwada
Communication Officer, Borno ACReSAL.

28/07/2026

BORNO ACReSAL CONDUCTS FAO LAND RESTORATION COMMUNITY SENSITIZATION AND ENGAGEMENT IN BAMA LGA.

The Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes , *(ACReSAL*), has conducted a community sensitization and engagement exercise on the *FAO 2026 Land Restoration Initiative* in Bama community.

The objective of the exercise was to strengthen community participation, sensitize beneficiaries on their roles and responsibilities, reinforce ownership of the restoration program, and ensure sustained protection and maintenance of the restored sites.

Addressing the community members, the *FAO Desk Officer, Alhaji Bukar Madu Goba*, gave an overview of ACReSAL and its key areas of intervention. He listed afforestation, climate change mitigation, and community empowerment as some of the core focus areas.

He explained that ACReSAL is a community-driven development program that works directly with community members. According to him, the team was in Bama for land restoration through agroforestry.
He further stated that community members will be responsible for land clearing, planting, and nurturing of seedlings. He assured them that their lands remain theirs and will not be taken over by the program.

Also speaking, the *Executive Director, Global Environmental Response Initiative, Dr. Ngare Dogo*, said the intervention is part of the efforts of the State Government in partnership with the World Bank to improve livelihoods in communities.
He assured residents that their lands are safe and will not be taken, but rather will be used to plant more trees to restore degraded areas.
He encouraged them to participate actively in the seedling planting exercise, noting that each seedling planted will be paid for. He described it as a great opportunity for the community to benefit economically and environmentally.

27th July, 2026
Timothy Butu Mwada.
Communication Officer
Borno ACReSA.

23/07/2026

16/07/2026

Zulum Rolls Out Free Gas Cylinders for 23,700 Teachers, Environmental Vanguards, as Minister Launches Four Million Seedlings Tree Planting Campaign

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has announced the distribution of 23,700 clean cooking gas cylinders free of charge to school teachers and environmental vanguards across the state’s 27 local government areas as part of efforts to curb deforestation and promote environmental sustainability.

The governor also disclosed that beneficiaries would receive refill vouchers to enable them recharge their gas cylinders through designated vendors.

Zulum made the announcement on Thursday during the 2026 National Tree Planting Campaign and Distribution of Clean Cooking Stoves and Gas Cylinders held in Maiduguri.

He explained that the first phase of the programme would see the distribution of 5,000 cooking gas cylinders and clean cooking stoves to teachers and environmental vanguards in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area, while beneficiaries from the remaining 25 local government areas would receive theirs in subsequent phases.

“I am particularly delighted that today’s programme also includes the distribution of clean cooking stoves and 5,000 cooking gas cylinders to be distributed to school teachers. The programme does not end with the distribution of the gas cooking cylinders, we shall also be giving them vouchers that they will use to refill their cylinders from designated vendors,” Zulum stated.

The governor noted that the initiative would reduce dependence on firewood, improve public health and contribute significantly to protecting the state’s forests.

“This initiative will significantly reduce dependence on firewood, improve household health, protect our forests, reduce carbon emission and improve the quality of life of thousands of families across our communities. Borno State Government under my leadership will provide cylinders to the remaining teachers in other local government areas of the state,” he added.

Governor Zulum stressed that environmental restoration remains a key pillar of his administration’s rebuilding and recovery agenda, emphasizing that ecological sustainability must go hand-in-hand with post-conflict reconstruction.

“As we reconstruct communities affected by conflict, we must equally restore the ecosystem that sustain the communities. Sustainable peace and sustainable development cannot flourish in a degraded environment.”

The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to environmental sustainability under the Renewed Hope Agenda and praised the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her contributions to promoting a greener environment.

He also appreciated the Federal Ministry of Environment, particularly ACReSAL who procured the gas cylinders, other agencies and development partners for their continued support towards building a climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable Borno State and Nigeria.

Flagging off the National Tree Planting Campaign, the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawan, who also served as the Special guest of honour, lauded Governor Zulum’s innovative approach to tackling deforestation by providing clean cooking alternatives alongside tree planting initiatives.

“I want to say here that this is the first time I have seen tree planting getting connected with alternatives. The Governor is giving you alternatives. He is giving out 5,000 clean cooking stoves to our teachers. That’s the starting point. If you can remove 5,000 people from using firewood, it is a great achievement, and I commend the governor for that,” the minister said.

“Today we are also launching the planting of 4 million seedlings that are being provided by various sectors to plant trees. And I have heard that more than 20 million trees have been planted in Borno State. So it is a very laudable achievement, and we will try to make other states take cues from what Borno State has been doing.”

The minister urged governments at all levels, schools, faith-based organisations, the private sector, youth groups, women and all Nigerians to embrace tree planting as a civic responsibility to safeguard the nation’s environment for future generations.

15/07/2026

Governor Zulum Declares 2026 Top Management Retreat and National Tree Planting Campaign Open in Maiduguri.

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, mni, FNSE, today declared open the 2026 Top Management Retreat and National Tree Planting Campaign in Maiduguri, reaffirming the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and ecosystem restoration.

The Governor commended the ACReSAL Project for its numerous interventions in tackling climate change in the state. He also appreciated various agencies for their contributions to environmental management in Borno.

The event was organised by the Federal Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Borno State Government.

It brought together top government officials, environmental experts, and stakeholders from across the country to chart a sustainable path for environmental management in Nigeria.

The programme began with opening remarks by the Secretary to the Borno State Government, *Hon. Bukar Tijjani*, followed by a welcome address by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr. Salihu Aminu Usman. He welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.

A presentation on the achievements of the Federal Ministry of Environment in Borno State showcased key interventions, including:
Technical response to the 2024 flood disaster through immediate support and the development of medium and long-term erosion control measures.

The Ajilari Cross water treatment project.
Strengthened environmental education initiatives and other environmental protection programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and building resilient communities.

The presentation also highlighted the work of *ACReSAL* in the state.

In his address, the Honourable Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability through strategic policies and programmes such as the National Tree Planting Campaign.

He called for greater collaboration among stakeholders to tackle climate change, desertification, flooding, and other environmental challenges facing the nation. The Minister also commended the ACReSAL Project and other agencies for their hard work in Borno State.

The retreat provided a platform for high-level discussions, policy reviews, and knowledge sharing aimed at strengthening environmental governance and promoting sustainable development across Nigeria.

Delivering the closing remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Mohammed Habib, FNSE, expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Environment and all stakeholders for choosing Borno State to host the retreat.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Borno State Government under the leadership of Governor Zulum to advancing environmental protection initiatives and fostering partnerships that promote a greener, safer, and more resilient environment for present and future generations.

The Project Coordinator of Borno ACReSAL, Mr. Ayuba Peter, and other ACReSAL SPMU staff were in attendance.

The event took place at the International Conference Centre, Musa Usman Secretariat, Maiduguri.

15th July 2026
Timothy Butu Mwada
Communication Officer
Borno ACReSAL.

10/07/2026

Lake Chad Research Institute Team Pays Courtesy Call on Borno ACReSAL.

The Executive Director of Lake Chad Research Institute (LCRI), *Prof. BGJ Kabir*, led a team on a courtesy visit to the Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) office to discuss IITA in collaboration with ACReSAL to deliver on climate smart agriculture.

In his welcome address, the Project Coordinator of Borno ACReSAL, *Mr. Ayuba Peter*, expressed gratitude to the LCRI team for the visit. He noted that the meeting was timely for brainstorming and finding the best ways to collaborate in order to achieve the goals of ACReSAL.

He stated that ACReSAL is committed to addressing key challenges including land degradation, deforestation, and livelihood improvement.
He added that with the expertise of the Lake Chad Research Institute team, it is important to meet, discuss, and find ways to jointly tackle the problems of climate change bedeviling Northern Nigeria.

He commended the LCRI team of experts for their capacity and wealth of knowledge in mitigating these challenges.
He emphasized the need for high-yielding crop varieties, improved seed varieties, and tree species that are well adapted to the local climate.

Responding, the Executive Director of Lake Chad Research Institute, *Prof. BGJ Kabir*, thanked ACReSAL for the work being done in Borno State.
He said the purpose of the meeting was to collaborate with the ACReSAL State Implementation Unit on IITA activities.

He noted that environmental degradation has become very severe, and assured that LCRI will give its best to help mitigate some of these challenges by partnering with ACReSAL to achieve the desired objectives.

Thereafter, discussions continued on technical aspects with the IITA core team.

9th July ,2026
Timothy Butu Mwada
Communication Officer
Borno ACReSAL.

26/06/2026

Borno ACReSAL Concludes Two -day Refresher training for CRF Stakeholders in Askira/Uba LGA.

The Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has successfully concluded a two-day refresher training for members of the Community Revolving Fund Management Committees (CRFMCs), Community Business Agents (CBAs), Boards of Trustees (BoTs), and the Local Government Project Management Committee (LGPMC) in Askira/Uba Local Government Area.

Addressing participants during the training, the Lead Consultant of the Focal NGO, Dr. Ngare Dogo, emphasized the importance of the refresher programme in ensuring that stakeholders fully understand the operations and management of the Community Revolving Fund (CRF).

He noted that the training represents the final stage before the commencement of CRF disbursement, which is expected soon.

Also speaking, the CRF Desk Officer, Mr. Samson Mshelia, welcomed the stakeholders and thanked them for attending the programme. He stressed that the refresher training is an important prerequisite for the disbursement of the CRF.

Mr. Mshelia appealed to stakeholders to remain patient and cooperative, explaining that the training was designed to ensure that participants fully understand all aspects of the CRF and that their documentation is properly completed before disbursement.

Declaring the training open, the Borno State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ayuba Peter, represented by the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Alhaji Bukar Madu Goba, expressed appreciation to the stakeholders for attending the important programme.

He stated that the refresher training would contribute significantly to improving community livelihoods and urged participants to pay close attention throughout the sessions.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Askira/Uba Local Government Area, Hon. Mada Saidu, commended ACReSAL for the various interventions implemented in the local government, which have positively impacted the communities.

He particularly appreciated the CRF initiative, noting that it would enhance food security and improve livelihoods.

He urged beneficiaries to repay the loans promptly so that others could also benefit from the revolving fund.

According to him, although the process had taken some time, it was encouraging that implementation had reached an advanced stage.

The chairman further advised beneficiaries to utilize the funds judiciously and invest them in productive ventures rather than diverting them to non-essential purposes. He also expressed gratitude to the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for supporting the CRF initiative, which is expected to benefit many communities across the state.

Similarly, the Chairman of Chibok Local Government Area, Hon. Ibrahim Umar Haure, who accompanied his counterpart from Askira/Uba, encouraged stakeholders to become model beneficiaries by ensuring timely repayment of the loans. He noted that prompt repayment would create opportunities for additional support and appealed for Chibok LGA to be considered for future CRF interventions.

During the technical sessions, the Project Internal Auditor, Mr. Thomas Garba Mibwala, delivered a presentation on financial management, bookkeeping, and cash book maintenance to promote accountability and transparency in project implementation. He also discussed strategies for sustaining CRF activities within the communities.

The session on the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) was facilitated by Engr. Umar Loskurima, the Environmental officer who explained that the GRM is a system designed to address complaints and concerns while ensuring accountability, transparency, and responsiveness.
The Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Alhaji Bukar Madu Goba, also presented a paper on Community-Driven Development (CDD). He explained that CDD serves as an important approach for organizing community members to work collectively towards achieving shared goals and improving their socio-economic conditions.

He emphasized the importance of unity, cooperation, and sustained commitment to community development objectives.

A presentation on Climate-Smart Agriculture was delivered by the Ministry of Agriculture Desk Officer, Mr. Wazeri Usman. He explained that climate-smart agriculture focuses on adapting farming practices to the realities of climate change by encouraging farmers to cultivate crop varieties that are resilient to changing weather conditions.

The Lead Consultant, Dr. Ngare Dogo, also delivered a presentation on the roles and responsibilities of CRFMCs, CBAs, and BoTs, as well as the importance of group dynamics in ensuring effective implementation and sustainability of the Community Revolving Fund.

The training featured interactive sessions during which participants raised questions and received detailed responses from the resource persons and specialists.

24th June,2026.
Timothy Butu Mwada
Communication Officer
Borno ACReSAL.

23/06/2026

Borno ACReSAL Distributes Farm Inputs to beneficiaries of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) farm in Ngamdu, Kaga LGA.

The Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project distributed knapsack sprayers, pesticides and herbicides to farmers in Ngamdu community of Kaga Local Government Area, to boost farming activities.

Flagging off the distribution of the farm inputs by the Council Chairman of Kaga local Government Area, Hon. Zanna Lawan Ajimi, the Project Coordinator of Borno ACReSAL, Mr. Ayuba Peter, represented by Bukar Madu Goba, Monitoring & Evaluation Officer, highlighted that the ACReSAL Project is committed to improving people’s livelihoods by introducing new technology in the area of Climate Smart Agriculture.

ACReSAL encouraged all states to adopt and practice a sustainable CSA to boost food productivity and improve Community livelihoods.

In line with this development, Borno ACReSAL established two CSA Irrigation sites in Ngamdu and Mafa LGAs.

He said earlier on inputs such as Sorrel, Amarantus and Watermelon seeds were distributed and the little inputs had already changed their socioeconomic narratives. The distribution of the above inputs by the Chairman is further testimony to the fact that ACReSAL is committed to achieving food security and Livelihood enhancement.

Responding the Chairman expressed happiness and thanked ACReSAL Project for the many projects executed in his area.

He urged the beneficiaries to utilize the inputs accordingly so that it benefits them and the larger society as well.

The Chairman then flagged-off the distribution by presenting to few beneficiaries.

The Chairman called on the Adviser to the State Governor, Rtd Perm. Sec. Goni Ibrahim to also make his presentation to some beneficiaries.
Later a stakeholder with Kaga Local Government in the person of Hon. Bukar Daima and others were also called by the Chairman to grace the occasion too.

Speaking on behalf of th beneficiaries, Wakil Saleri said the sprayers and herbicides given to him will help him achieving higher yields this year.

He thanked ACReSAL, noting that as a farmer he had never received such support before and that ACReSAL has now put a smile on his face.

The highlight of the occasion was the formal presentation of the farm inputs to beneficiaries by the Honorable Chairman and other top Stakeholders of Kaga Local Government Area.
The Chairman later visited the irrigation site and commended the project.

23rd June ,2026
Timothy Butu Mwada.
Communication Officer
Borno ACReSA.

23/06/2026

Borno ACReSAL Organises Two-Day Refresher Training for CRF Stakeholders in Ngamdu, Kaga LGA.

The Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has organised a critical two-day refresher training for members of the Community Revolving Fund Management Committees (CRFMCs), Community Business Agents (CBAs), and Boards of Trustees (BOTs) in Ngamdu, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

Addressing participants at the training, the Lead Consultant of the Focal NGO, Dr. Ngare Dogo, emphasised the importance of the refresher programme in ensuring that stakeholders fully understand the operations and management of the Community Revolving Fund (CRF). He noted that the training represents the final stage before the commencement of fund disbursement, which is expected soon.

Declaring the training open, the Project Coordinator of Borno ACReSAL, Mr. Ayuba Peter, represented by the Project Accountant, Mr. Shehu Yakubu Gana, thanked the stakeholders for attending the important training. He stated that the programme would equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to sustainably manage the Community Revolving Fund and urged them to pay close attention throughout the sessions.

He further called for the continued cooperation and commitment of all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the programme and maximise its benefits for their communities.

Speaking during the event, the CRF Desk Officer, Mr. Samson Mshelia, explained that the interest-free loan scheme would provide opportunities for many community members to expand their farming activities, increase agricultural productivity, and improve food security.

In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Kaga Local Government Area, Hon. Zanna Lawan Ajimi, expressed appreciation to the ACReSAL Project for its positive impact on communities within the local government.

He urged participants to actively engage in the training sessions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the programme.

During the technical sessions, the Project Accountant, Mr. Shehu Yakubu Gana, delivered a presentation on financial management, record keeping, and the importance of maintaining receipts and cash books for accountability and transparency.

The session on community procurement was facilitated by the MIS Officer, Mr. Ali Hussaini, who provided detailed explanations on local bidding procedures, procurement of goods and services, local shopping methods, consultancy services, and direct purchases.

Similarly, the Desk Officer from the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Wazeri Usman, delivered a presentation on climate-smart agriculture and other sustainable agricultural practices aimed at enhancing resilience and productivity in farming communities.

The session on Community Driven Development (CDD) was presented by M&E Officer Alh. Bukar Madu Goba.
He explained that CDD is a necessary tool that organises the members to come under one umbrella to achieve or improve their target goals.
He called on them to continue being as a cooperative society ensuring that as long as they remained focused together they will surely achieve all their target goals.

The training is expected to strengthen stakeholders' capacity to effectively manage the Community Revolving Fund and contribute to the achievement of the ACReSAL Project's objectives of improving livelihoods, food security, and climate resilience across beneficiary communities.

22 June 2026

Timothy ButuBorno ACReSAL Organises Two-Day Refresher Training for CRF Stakeholders in Ngamdu, Kaga LGA.

The Borno State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has organised a critical two-day refresher training for members of the Community Revolving Fund Management Committees (CRFMCs), Community Business Agents (CBAs), and Boards of Trustees (BOTs) in Ngamdu, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

Addressing participants at the training, the Lead Consultant of the Focal NGO, Dr. Ngare Dogo, emphasised the importance of the refresher programme in ensuring that stakeholders fully understand the operations and management of the Community Revolving Fund (CRF). He noted that the training represents the final stage before the commencement of fund disbursement, which is expected soon.

Declaring the training open, the Project Coordinator of Borno ACReSAL, Mr. Ayuba Peter, represented by the Project Accountant, Mr. Shehu Yakubu Gana, thanked the stakeholders for attending the important training. He stated that the programme would equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to sustainably manage the Community Revolving Fund and urged them to pay close attention throughout the sessions.

He further called for the continued cooperation and commitment of all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the programme and maximise its benefits for their communities.

Speaking during the event, the CRF Desk Officer, Mr. Samson Mshelia, explained that the interest-free loan scheme would provide opportunities for many community members to expand their farming activities, increase agricultural productivity, and improve food security.

In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Kaga Local Government Area, Hon. Zanna Lawan Ajimi, expressed appreciation to the ACReSAL Project for its positive impact on communities within the local government.

He urged participants to actively engage in the training sessions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the programme.

During the technical sessions, the Project Accountant, Mr. Shehu Yakubu Gana, delivered a presentation on financial management, record keeping, and the importance of maintaining receipts and cash books for accountability and transparency.

The session on community procurement was facilitated by the MIS Officer, Mr. Ali Hussaini, who provided detailed explanations on local bidding procedures, procurement of goods and services, local shopping methods, consultancy services, and direct purchases.

Similarly, the Desk Officer from the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Wazeri Usman, delivered a presentation on climate-smart agriculture and other sustainable agricultural practices aimed at enhancing resilience and productivity in farming communities.

The session on Community Driven Development (CDD) was presented by M&E Officer Alh. Bukar Madu Goba.
He explained that CDD is a necessary tool that organises the members to come under one umbrella to achieve or improve their target goals.
He called on them to continue being as a cooperative society ensuring that as long as they remained focused together they will surely achieve all their target goals.

The training is expected to strengthen stakeholders' capacity to effectively manage the Community Revolving Fund and contribute to the achievement of the ACReSAL Project's objectives of improving livelihoods, food security, and climate resilience across beneficiary communities.

22nd June, 2026.

Timothy Butu Mwada
Communication Officer
Borno ACReSAL. Mwada
Communication Officer
Borno ACReSAL.