Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo has introduced the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) loan program, providing clusters of farmers in the state with $25,000 each. This initiative is part of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, in collaboration with the World Bank.
At the unveiling ceremony in Lokoja, Governor Ododo thanked stakeholders and reaffirmed his commitment to agricultural development. He highlighted initiatives from his first five months in office, including providing agricultural machinery, inputs, and training for farmers.
The CRF loan scheme prioritizes women, with 70% of beneficiaries being female. Ododo encouraged recipients to use the funds to enhance their agricultural activities and livelihoods, emphasizing the loan’s potential to boost food production and security in the region.
Jibril Abu, representing the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, stressed the importance of partnerships for progress, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals. He praised Governor Ododo’s leadership and commitment.
Ladi Jatto, the State Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, commended the governor’s dedication to the project and urged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely. Commissioners Mukadam Asiru and Engr Olusegun Joseph expressed gratitude for the governor’s efforts to address rural challenges and improve community welfare.
Traditional leaders, the Obaro of Kabba and the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, praised the governor’s dedication to boosting agriculture. Beneficiaries also expressed gratitude for Governor Ododo’s leadership, particularly for timely salary payments, and pledged to use the loan efficiently to support agricultural growth and enhance the well-being of Kogi State’s citizens.
