From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Paramount Ruler of the Tiv nation, Orcivirigh Prof James Ayatse, has lauded the commitment of the World Bank for their sustained development and poverty reduction initiatives in the Northern Region and the entire nation as a whole which have made significant impact on the people’s lives on a multisectoral basis.
Who stated this in his palace in Gboko when the Project Team Task Leader of Agro-Climate Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Dr Joy Iganya Agene paid him a visit, stressed the need to deepen the partnership for its effective implementation especially in the areas of agricultural modernization, rehabilitation of cottage industries, agroforestry, dredging of the River Benue, rehabilitation of moribund cattle ranches as well as support and empowerment for women.
The Tor Tiv stated further that through the intervention of ACReSAL opportunities for economic growth, social progress and environmental sustainability will be fostered adding that by learning from each other’s wealth of experience and expertise a brighter future for the next generation will be realized.
Earlier, the World Bank Task Team Lead, Dr Joy Agene disclosed that the ACReSAL project is aimed at contributing to the Federal Government objective to reduce the vulnerability of millions of extremely poor northern Nigeria and strengthen its role in line with achieving environmental sustainability.
According to Dr Agene, the project targets vulnerable and marginalized groups including women, youths, the elderly persons with disabilities, Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, ethnic and religious minorities across the 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
She noted that the visit to the Tor Tiv was to foster a cooperation with traditional rulers and community leaders for the important role they play in the implementation of projects because of their connection and closeness to the rural people.
Benue State Project Coordinator, ACReSAL, Dr Victor Ama commended the World Bank for choosing Benue State for the implementation of the projects.
He assured the Tor Tiv that his fatherly and wonderful counsel shall be fully adhered to.