Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at boosting agricultural growth in the region.
The governor announced that a total of N3.5 billion will be allocated to reward 1,000 young individuals as part of this effort.
He said, “This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for business prosperity and sustainable agriculture.”
Governor Bago emphasized the importance of community participation in tree planting activities, as he introduced the first Executive Order on tree planting.
Under this scheme, 1,000 young people who venture into agriculture will receive financial incentives of one million naira each. The funds allocated for this initiative, totaling N3.5 billion, will be offered as grants, not loans, ensuring that the beneficiaries do not need to repay the money.
He also encouraged local governments to contribute by pledging N100 million each to the fund, further strengthening the government’s commitment to sustainable farming. To expedite the project, every Local Government Secretariat will establish Extension Colleges and Nurseries on 2 to 3 hectares of land within their respective areas to facilitate tree germination.
Additionally, the governor announced the first Executive Order on tree planting and urged all residents to participate in this green economy initiative, emphasizing the importance of educating the public about the benefits of such actions.
“The government would provide one million naira to anyone who returns to farming, reinforcing the idea that this fund aims to support agriculture effectively”, he added.
