The Federal Government has launched the FarmerMoni programme in Kano State, extending its Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) 3.0 initiative to support small-scale farmers, petty traders and vulnerable groups with interest-free loans and enterprise support.
The rollout was marked by the North-West Zonal Renewed Hope GEEP 3.0 FarmerMoni Dry and Wet Season Media and Sensitisation Exercise, which brought together senior government officials, development partners, agricultural stakeholders and community leaders to drive awareness and coordination across the region.
The event commenced with the registration of participants and the arrival of dignitaries, including commissioners, permanent secretaries, heads of agencies and the National Programme Manager of GEEP, followed by opening prayers and the national anthem.
In her welcome address, the Director-General of the Kano Social Protection Agency, Hajiya Fatima Abubakar Abdullahi, described the initiative as a targeted response to the economic challenges faced by vulnerable populations, particularly in rural communities. She stated that the FarmerMoni scheme provides “interest-free loans, entrepreneurship support and capacity-building opportunities” designed to help beneficiaries build sustainable livelihoods.
Goodwill messages from representatives of the Kano State Ministry of Agriculture, the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and the FarmerMoni Technical Working Group emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among government institutions, farmer groups and local communities. Speakers noted that effective coordination would be critical to ensuring that the programme delivers measurable impact.
A detailed presentation on the GEEP/FarmerMoni framework highlighted its structure and implementation strategy, while a technical session on small-scale goat rearing showcased practical pathways for income generation and rural enterprise growth.
Delivering the keynote address, the National Programme Manager, Hon. Hamza Ibrahim Baba, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing poverty and expanding economic opportunities. He said the programme aligns with broader efforts to promote financial inclusion and job creation through targeted social investment schemes.
Nigeria Startup News reports that the exercise concluded with closing remarks delivered on behalf of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, followed by a media interaction session, vote of thanks and group photograph.
