The Lagos State Government has commenced the enumeration of farmers for the Federal Government’s FarmerMoni scheme, which offers interest-free loans without collateral to small-scale farmers.
The initiative is designed to help farmers expand their agricultural businesses, improve food production and boost food security.
The scheme is being implemented through the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment in collaboration with the National Social Investment Programme Agency.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the National Programme Manager of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme, Hamza Baba, said the Federal Government had provided funds to support farmers, particularly those from poor and vulnerable backgrounds.
He explained that eligible beneficiaries could access the loans without providing collateral, urging farmers to take advantage of the opportunity to grow their businesses.
Baba also commended Lagos State for its agricultural development efforts, particularly the introduction of Eko Rice.
He said his visit to Ikorodu had changed his perception about farming in the country, having witnessed the level of agricultural activities taking place in the area.
The Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Kudirat Bello, said the programme was introduced to tackle the financial challenges confronting farmers.
He noted that agriculture remained a major driver of economic growth, employment and wealth creation, stressing that improved access to finance would strengthen farmers’ businesses and livelihoods.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Lolade Aina, represented by the Director of Partnership, Oluyemisi Adeniyi, praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritising farmers’ empowerment.
She urged prospective beneficiaries to make responsible use of the loans to expand their agricultural operations.
The event featured the official commencement of the FarmerMoni enumeration exercise, symbolic presentation of work tools and capacity-building training for GEEP desk officers drawn from the 20 local government areas of Lagos State.
The government said the initiative would support agricultural enterprises, increase food production, create jobs and promote sustainable wealth creation.
Don’t Miss Out! Join our WhatsApp Channel for instant news updates. Click here to join
