GIZ Disburses N9bn to Boost Agriculture in Northwest Nigeria

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) has disbursed N9 billion over the last eight years to promote agricultural financing in Northwest Nigeria, specifically in Kano, Kaduna, and Kebbi states. Andrea Ruedig, the cluster coordinator, noted that the project aimed to address limited access to finance in the agricultural sector.

The initiative, funded by the German government, has facilitated the development of 11 financial institutions supporting value chains for rice, maize, and Irish potato. Despite the project's closure, it has successfully trained 5,000 farmers in 22 financial products, improving their access to finance.

Dr. Aliyu Ochanomo, representing the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized the importance of supporting small-scale farmers for national food security.

The project has enabled 30,000 farmers to access financing, with no grants provided, ensuring a sustainable business model. Key partnerships included the Central Bank of Nigeria, Bank of Agriculture, and various microfinance banks.