No fewer than 40,000 farmers are to benefit from the inputs of 2019 Central Bank of Nigeria Anchor Borrowers Scheme for the dry and wet seasons distribution in Niger State.
This, according to the Chairman, Niger State Rice Farmer Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Idris Abini, is not free, but a loan to be repaid or they face prosecution.
Making this known on Saturday at the flag-off ceremony at its Zone B office in Maikunkele, Bosso Local Government Area, Abini applauded the kind gesture of the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, who gave agriculture the desire priority and for prompt release of funds and inputs, which he vowed will be distributed to the actual farmers in the state.
However, he lamented the lackadaisical attitude of some farmers in the repayment of loans by majority of them in the country.
He said this called for concern as farmers are expected to pay back for others to benefit.
Abini further informed that no fewer than N20 million has been recovered from the 2018 programme, while he decried that a lot of loans are still awaiting repayment from beneficiaries.
Earlier in her remarks, the CBN representative, Hajiya Hassana Mohammed, called for repayment, adding: “It is not a national cake as perceived in some quarters.”
Mohammed stated that this is an indication of President Buhari’s sympathy for the citizens.
The State Commissioner of Agriculture, Alhaji Mohammed Nuhu Dukku, commended the foresight of the Federal Government, saying agriculture is the only alternative to the oil sector for economic growth.
Trending
- 22-year-old man jailed seven years for belonging to secret cult
- Ban on Oro curfew in Osun: MURIC thanks Ooni, IG, CP
- Bodies of two victims of Baltimore bridge collapse recovered
- INEC disowns Anambra Labour Party national convention
- Breaking: Okuoma: Army declares eight wanted + Full names, photos
- International friendly: Super Eagles Coach takes positives despite defeat
- How to resolve Nigeria’s security challenges using Gumi — Veteran Journalist
- Akande slams Labour Party leadership, urges alignment with national Interest