In an effort to boost agricultural activities in the state, Niger State government has accessed the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN, Accelerated Agriculture Development Scheme loan to the tune of N1.5 billion for 2018 scheme.
The government stated that the funds would be used specifically to boost the production of Rice, Maize and Soya Beans in the state.
The state Commissioner for Livestock and Fisheries, Alhaji Haruna Dukku made this known while briefing the press in Minna.
Dukku explained that about 10,000 youths between ages 18 to 35 years cutting across the various local communities stand to benefit from the agricultural activities put in place by the state.
The commissioner reiterated the commitment of the state in giving agriculture the desired priority, hence the decision to come up with various agricultural transformation programs.
He also disclosed the readiness of the Government to resuscitate the 45 years old abandoned Rice Mill in Bida constructed by Korea Government and handed over to Niger State government.
“The Bida Rice Mill will also be given attention after Korean Embassy expressed worries over its abandonment for years.
Dukku revealed that the Rice Mill project has already been handed over to a reputable rice mill in Nigeria based in Ibadan with about 8 outlets in the country to handle.
” Soon a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, will be signed between Niger State Government and the firm handling work on the project to effect the agreement on making the mill functional again. “
