The Kogi State government has launched the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) loan disbursement, a joint effort with the World Bank’s ACReSAL project. This initiative targets climate change challenges and bolsters local agricultural efforts.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo kicked off the program at a ceremony in Lokoja on Wednesday, expressing gratitude to all partners and highlighting his administration’s focus on agricultural growth.
“In just five months,” Ododo stated, “we’ve launched multiple programs to boost agricultural productivity. These include providing farm machinery, supplies, training, and capacity building for our farmers.”
Promoting women’s empowerment, the CRF loan prioritises female beneficiaries, with 70% being women.
Ododo urged the recipients to use the loans wisely, emphasising their purpose: to support agricultural endeavors and improve livelihoods. He projected the initiative to enhance agricultural practices and increase food production within the targeted areas.
Prior to the governor’s speech, the Kogi State House of Assembly Speaker’s representative, Jibril Abu, stressed the importance of collaboration for progress, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. He commended Governor Ododo’s leadership and dedication to the state’s development.
The ACReSAL State Project Coordinator, Ladi Jatto, applauded the governor’s commitment to the project’s success, making it readily accessible for Kogi residents. She urged the beneficiaries to leverage this opportunity by using the funds as intended.
Each farmer cluster group received a grant of $25,000 USD.
Both the commissioner for finance, Mukadam Asiwaju Idris Asiru, and his counterpart for environment, Olusegun Joseph, commended the governor’s focus on supporting the rural population.
Traditional leaders present at the event also expressed their appreciation for the governor’s agricultural initiatives and urged the beneficiaries to ensure timely loan repayment for continued program sustainability and community development.
Expressing gratitude for the program, the beneficiaries pledged to utilise the loans judiciously. They commended the governor’s commitment to agriculture and his dedication to improving the lives of Kogi residents.
