By Dipo Olowookere
Over 30,000 farmers in Niger State have benefited from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers’ Scheme.
Controller of the CBN branch in Minna, Mr Mashud Ibrahim Tulu, made this known on Tuesday while addressing journalists.
Mr Tulu disclosed that 12,000 farmers participated in the first planting season while additional 18,600 farmers have joined the scheme this season.
The CBN representative, who was in the state on a courtesy visit on Governor Abubakar Sani Bello in his office in Minna, the state capital, rated the performance of Niger State high in the on-going Anchor Borrower’s Scheme.
He attributed the success story of the scheme in the state to the commitment and political will accorded it by the Governor, stressing that this commitment was responsible for the positive result being posted by the state in rice production.
“I am highly impressed by your drive to provide infrastructural facilities for the benefit of the people of the state.
“I came in virtually a month ago and while going round the town, I saw a lot of things that attracted my attention such as the well demarcated drainages which will go a long way to solve flooding problems. I also saw well equipped fire service stations with ambulances.
“I have never seen or heard of anywhere in Nigeria where fire service stations are being supported with ambulances. This is a very welcome development in meeting our infrastructure deficiency.
“I also learnt there is regular supply of pipe borne water in Minna, the state capital. To me this is a great achievement,” he said.
Mr Tulu assured the Governor of CBN resolve to continue to partner with his administration’s developmental efforts at “fighting poverty, create employment and generate wealth.”
Adedapo Adesanya