The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has taken a central role in validating a climate-resilient livelihoods strategy and investment framework aimed at helping Yobe State move beyond emergency relief and build self-reliance among internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees and host communities.
The framework, covering 2026–2030, was reviewed at a validation workshop in Damaturu by FAO, the Yobe State Government and the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT).
Representing Ali Galol, FAO Head of Office for North-East Operations, Prof. Yakaka Bukar Maina, a natural resources and energy expert with FAO, said the exercise was designed to align proposed interventions with current realities, government priorities and available funding opportunities.
She stressed that the strategy must be translated into practical, cost-effective investments capable of delivering lasting benefits to vulnerable communities. She said the review incorporated emerging challenges, including displacement, resettlement, malnutrition, gender inequality and social inclusion.
According to her, stakeholders assessed the costs and expected benefits of proposed interventions to strengthen resource mobilisation. She noted that consultations with affected communities, local groups and government institutions were central to ensuring the strategy reflects the actual needs and priorities of beneficiaries.
The framework identifies priority investment areas including climate-smart agriculture, livestock production, aquaculture, nutrition, natural resource management, land restoration, gender equality and social inclusion.
Dr. Angarawai Ignatius, an ICRISAT consultant, said the institute was collaborating with FAO Nigeria to develop climate-smart agricultural investment frameworks for Yobe, Borno, Adamawa and Benue states.
He explained that the frameworks integrate the Durable Solutions approach into agricultural planning so displaced persons, returnees and host communities can rebuild livelihoods and develop sustainable economic opportunities.
He added that priority investments should be viable, evidence-based and attractive to funders, while strengthening local agricultural systems and delivering results beyond implementation periods. Women, young people and persons with disabilities are also expected to benefit.
Samira Ahmed Shu’aibu, Technical Focal Point at the Yobe State Durable Solutions Secretariat, stressed the need for development partners to align their interventions with the state’s existing action plan to ensure effective coordination and avoid duplication.
Mr.Shaibu Abdullahi Mohammad of the Climate Awareness Advocacy and Resilience Initiative commended FAO and ICRISAT for providing a platform to identify climate-smart agricultural investment opportunities in Yobe.
He said the initiative would help raise awareness of climate-smart farming, improve water management knowledge and attract investors.
The workshop brought together representatives of relevant state ministries, development partners, research institutions, civil society organisations and community stakeholders.
Its outcome is expected to provide a practical basis for mobilising resources, coordinating development efforts and implementing sustainable agricultural and livelihood programmes to improve food security and climate resilience across Yobe State.
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