The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has instructed the Presidential Food

The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, has given a directive to the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU) to expedite the disbursement of the Federal Government's ₦250 billion credit support for smallholder farmers. This initiative, which offers a single-digit interest rate, aims to enhance the productivity and livelihoods of small-scale farmers across the country.

Senator Shettima emphasized the need for a swift and efficient distribution of the funds, instructing the PFSCU to develop a comprehensive implementation roadmap. This roadmap will outline the strategic plans and timelines for the disbursement of the credit support, ensuring that the intended beneficiaries are reached without further delays.

The Vice President's directive is a testament to the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, which is a crucial driver of Nigeria's economy. By providing access to affordable credit, the government hopes to increase food production, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable agricultural practices among smallholder farmers.

The PFSCU is expected to work closely with relevant stakeholders, including agricultural agencies, financial institutions, and farmer associations, to ensure the successful implementation of the credit support initiative. With the development of an effective implementation roadmap, the PFSCU will be able to track progress, identify potential challenges, and make necessary adjustments to ensure that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries in a timely and transparent manner.

Overall, the Vice President's directive demonstrates the government's resolve to address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers and to promote a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector. By providing access to affordable credit and supporting the growth of small-scale farming, the government aims to improve food security, reduce poverty, and promote economic development in Nigeria.