By Muhammed Danjuma Ogwu, Lafia
In a bold initiative aimed at mitigating the harsh impacts of climate change across Nasarawa State’s 13 local government areas, One Acre Fund Nigeria has launched the distribution of more than 2.3 million Albizia Lebbeck and Moringa tree seedlings to over 82,150 small-holder farmers.
The program, officially kicked off in Adogi community, Lafia Local Government Area, is part of One Acre Fund’s commitment to empowering farmers with access to high-quality agricultural inputs that fight poverty, hunger, and improve livelihoods.
Speaking at the event, Zainab Haruna, Trees Lead for One Acre Fund Nigeria, emphasized the critical role of tree planting in climate resilience. “Our goal is to support farmers not only to feed their families but to build financial stability through sustainable agroforestry practices,” she said.
Haruna highlighted the multiple benefits the trees provide: from protecting farmlands against erosion to serving as future sources of income when harvested for timber or used in furniture making. “With proper care, these trees will mature into assets that help farmers withstand climate shocks while enhancing their environment,” she added.
Looking ahead, One Acre Fund plans to reach a staggering 471,700 small-holder farmers across Nasarawa, Kwara, and Niger states in 2025 by distributing 12.5 million seedlings. Nasarawa alone is set to receive over 2.3 million seedlings, underscoring the state’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s agroforestry transformation.
“We’ve seen firsthand how climate change depletes soil nutrients and disrupts rainfall patterns, threatening farmers’ livelihoods,” Haruna explained. “Tree planting is a practical, impactful solution to these challenges.”
State officials echoed their support for the initiative. Representing the Commissioner for Agriculture, Umar Tanko-Tunga, Ministry Director Lidia Kyari expressed gratitude to One Acre Fund, reaffirming the government’s resolve to partner with organizations tackling climate change.
Umar Jibril Nuhu, Programme Manager of Nasarawa State Agricultural Development Programme, urged farmers to plant and nurture their seedlings carefully, emphasizing the positive environmental and economic impact this would have statewide. “This effort will significantly reduce the adverse effects of climate change in our communities,” he said.
Each beneficiary received 27 seedlings to plant around their farmlands and homes, with strict advice not to sell but to cultivate them for long-term benefit.
Hadiza Adamu, speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, praised the program and pledged to nurture the Albizia Lebbeck and Moringa seedlings to improve their families’ futures.
As Nasarawa’s small-holder farmers embrace this green revolution, the combined power of agroforestry and community resilience promises a brighter, climate-smart future for the region.