CURRENT REPORT BLOG In a strategic move to promote agriculture and enhance food security, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Bank of Agriculture, has allocated N2.3 million in agricultural loans to civil servants. This groundbreaking initiative, known as the Agripreneurship Scheme, is not only aligning with national development goals but also providing civil servants with a unique opportunity to participate in the agricultural value chain.
Boosting Agricultural Development: Explore the overarching goal of the Agripreneurship Scheme in bolstering the agricultural sector. Highlight how this initiative contributes to the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on achieving food security and supporting the overall economic development of the country.
Agripreneurship Training Scheme Overview: Provide an in-depth look at the Agripreneurship Training Scheme, its objectives, and the collaborative effort involving the Federal Government, the Bank of Agriculture, and the Civil Service. Explain the significance of the scheme in offering civil servants an additional income stream and aiding retirees in their post-service transition.
Tripartite Arrangement
Detail the roles and responsibilities of the entities involved in the tripartite arrangement— the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, the Public Service Institute of Nigeria, and the Bank of Agriculture. This section emphasizes the coordinated effort to ensure effective implementation.
Hands-On Training Experience
Discuss the training process civil servants undergo, including the intensive two-week program at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN) and hands-on experience at selected farms in Abuja. Highlight the diverse aspects of the agriculture value chain covered during the training.
Credit Facility Details
Explain the credit facility provided by the Bank of Agriculture, emphasizing the single-digit interest rate of 9 percent. Clarify how loan repayment is linked to participants’ salaries, making it a financially viable option for civil servants.
Government’s Commitment to Civil Servants
Showcase the commitment of the Federal Government, as expressed by Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, to the welfare and well-being of civil servants. Emphasize how the Agripreneurship Scheme aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021 to 2025.
Encouraging Agricultural Entrepreneurship
Highlight the commendation from Alwan Hassan, the Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture, encouraging civil servants to actively engage in agricultural business. Stress the potential benefits of this initiative as a fallback option, especially in retirement.
