The Benue State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, in partnership with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), has commenced the establishment of 150 demonstration plots across the state to promote climate-smart agriculture and improve crop productivity.
TNT understands that the demonstration plots will feature maize, sorghum, groundnut, soybean and millet, with a central Mother Demonstration Plot in Makurdi serving as the main learning and practical training centre for building climate-resilient agriculture in Benue State.
The initiative forms part of ACReSAL’s broader efforts to strengthen farmers’ resilience to climate change, promote the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices and enhance food security across the state, according to a spokesperson for the project.
Project officials expressed optimism that the demonstration plots would facilitate knowledge transfer, boost crop yields and contribute to building a more resilient and productive agricultural sector in Benue.
Meanwhile, the Environment and Climate Change Amelioration Initiative (ECCAI), ACReSAL’s Focal Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) for Benue South (Zone C), has mobilised 12 participants from Otukpo and Ogbadibo Local Government Areas (LGAs) for the programme.
The participants, comprising Agricultural Extension Agents, Lead Farmers and Heads of Community Interest Groups, are undergoing intensive capacity-building aimed at strengthening their knowledge of climate-smart farming techniques and improving agricultural extension services in their respective communities.
The training began with classroom sessions before progressing to practical demonstrations at the Mother Demonstration Plot in Makurdi, where participants are being equipped with the skills required to establish and effectively manage demonstration farms that will serve as learning centres for other farmers across the state.
