Nigeria, June 16 -- The meeting brought together stakeholders to develop a framework that will translate environmental stewardship into direct economic benefits for local communities.

Organizers said the pilot builds on ACReSAL's achievement of over 800,000 hectares of restored land across northern Nigeria.

According to the project team, the PES framework is designed to create a system where individuals and communities that conserve forests, watersheds, and farmlands receive financial incentives. The goal is to move beyond restoration to "visible yield", measurable improvements in livelihoods, agricultural productivity, and ecosystem health.

ACReSAL officials noted that the pilot will test how payments can be structured, verified, and...