Discover how the Nigerian government, in collaboration with the Bank of Agriculture, is empowering government employees through N2.3 million agricultural loans. Join the initiative aimed at boosting agriculture, improving food security, and supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Learn how this program aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan for 2021-2025, offering civil servants an additional income source and contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
FG Empowers Civil Servants with N2.3 Million Agricultural Loans
In a groundbreaking move, the Nigerian government, in partnership with the Bank of Agriculture, has disbursed N2.3 million in agricultural loans to government employees. This initiative is a pivotal part of a comprehensive plan to elevate agriculture, enhance food security, and stimulate economic growth nationwide.
Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, the leader of the Civil Service in Nigeria, announced this development while presenting cheques to the inaugural beneficiaries of the Agripreneurship Training Scheme. She disclosed that 87 officers participated in the initial training session held in March 2023, with a second cohort of 98 individuals commencing their training on November 20, 2023.
Emphasizing her commitment to the program’s success, Dr. Yemi-Esan reassured employees of her office’s unwavering dedication.
According to an official statement from her office, the Agripreneurship Scheme is a pivotal component of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan for 2021-2025. Its primary objective is to enhance the welfare and well-being of civil servants, ultimately boosting workplace performance. Moreover, it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, concentrating on fortifying agriculture to ensure ample food availability for all.
Operating under the Federal Public Service Entrepreneurship initiative, this program provides government workers with an additional income stream, aids pre-retirees in preparing for post-work life, and contributes significantly to various sectors of the economy, ultimately bolstering Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.
The program is collaboratively managed by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), and the Bank of Agriculture. Each entity has distinct roles outlined in a formal agreement, ensuring the program’s effective implementation.
The Head of Civil Service oversees the program, PSIN handles theoretical teaching, and the Bank of Agriculture extends loans to qualifying participants for launching their businesses post-training. A team of experts meticulously crafted the training curriculum.
The initial cohort underwent a rigorous two-week training at PSIN, delving into various facets of the agricultural value chain. Practical experience was gained through hands-on work on selected farms in Abuja, tailored to match their business interests.
In a statement, Alwan Hassan, the Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, highlighted the program’s low-interest loans at just 9%, with repayments linked to participants’ salaries. Commending Dr. Yemi-Esan for spearheading this initiative, Hassan encouraged government workers to view agriculture as a viable retirement plan. Join the movement towards a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.