The Akwa Ibom State Government has commenced the rollout of the RH GEEP 3.0 FarmerMoni programme, alongside the training of local officers who will manage and implement the scheme in communities across the state.
The initiative, organised by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, is designed to provide interest-free loans and support to smallholder farmers, traders and other grassroots entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses and improve food production.
The training exercise took place on Monday, March 9, at the Women Development Centre on IBB Avenue in Uyo, bringing together Local Government Desk Officers and Field Extension Workers who will oversee the programme in their respective areas.
Speaking during the launch, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, said the programme represents a practical effort to strengthen rural livelihoods while improving agricultural productivity in the state.
She explained that RH GEEP 3.0 FarmerMoni is focused on supporting small farmers and traders who often struggle to access loans from conventional financial institutions.
“The goal of this programme is to empower smallholder farmers and grassroots entrepreneurs with the financial support and practical guidance they need to improve their productivity and strengthen their livelihoods,” Ibanga said.
According to her, the programme will provide interest-free loans beginning from ₦300,000, allowing beneficiaries to invest in farming activities, expand small businesses and contribute more effectively to local economic growth.
She added that beyond agricultural support, the scheme should also be seen as a humanitarian intervention aimed at helping vulnerable residents develop stable sources of income.
“FarmerMoni is not just about farming support; it is also a humanitarian programme designed to help vulnerable citizens create sustainable income opportunities,” she said.
Ibanga noted that the programme aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, particularly its focus on rural development, poverty reduction, empowerment and support for local entrepreneurs.
She stressed that by strengthening agricultural productivity and supporting grassroots businesses, the initiative will contribute to improved food security and economic activity in rural communities.
The commissioner also encouraged programme managers, desk officers and extension workers to carry out their responsibilities with professionalism and transparency to ensure that the benefits reach the right beneficiaries.
“You are the bridge between policy and the people. Your commitment to transparency and accountability will determine the success of this programme,” she said.
In his remarks, the State Focal Person for the National Social Investment Programme, Dr Godwin Akpan, described the rollout as an important step toward expanding economic inclusion among farmers and small-scale operators.
He explained that the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) is made up of three key components — FarmerMoni, MarketMoni and TraderMoni — which provide interest-free loans to farmers, traders and artisans who lack access to traditional banking services.
Akpan said previous phases of the programme had already supported many residents in the state.
“Through GEEP 1.0 and 2.0, more than ₦200 million has already been disbursed to beneficiaries in Akwa Ibom with support from the Bank of Industry and Access Bank,” he said.
He noted that the new RH GEEP 3.0 phase expands the focus on grassroots farmers and small businesses, ensuring that more people in rural communities can benefit from accessible financing.
Akpan also emphasised the role of local desk officers and extension workers in ensuring that the programme reaches communities effectively.
“These officers will serve as the link between government policy and the grassroots. Their role is critical in ensuring that the programme is implemented transparently and efficiently,” he said.
The State Programme Manager, Mr James Umoh, said the new phase of the programme represents a renewed commitment to supporting grassroots economic development.
He explained that RH GEEP 3.0 is designed to provide microcredit to traders, artisans, farmers and other small business operators who often face difficulties accessing conventional banking services.
According to Umoh, the FarmerMoni loans under the new phase are completely interest-free and do not require collateral.
“The loans are designed to support small farmers and entrepreneurs who need financial support but cannot meet the strict requirements of traditional banks,” he said.
He added that the programme will start with loan packages of ₦300,000, which beneficiaries can use to expand farming operations, improve production and grow small businesses.
Umoh urged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly and ensure timely repayment so that others can also benefit from the revolving loan scheme.
Earlier, programme officials visited Akpan Andem Market in Uyo to sensitise farmers and traders about the opportunities available under the RH GEEP 3.0 FarmerMoni programme, informing them about the interest-free loans and how they can participate in the scheme.
