By Fatima Saka
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in collaboration with the Maize Farmers Association of Nigeria have unveiled 21 Maize pyramids in Kaduna, as part of federal government commitment to ensure food sufficiency in the country.
According to Governor of CBN, Godwin Emefele at the unveiling of Maize Pyramid, on Thursday, said the currently maize production in the nation had reached 12.2 million metric tonnes.
Mr Emefele, represented by the Director Development Finance of the bank, Yusuf Yila, explained that, the Central Bank of Nigeria is committed to financing over 600,000 hectres this year by providing funding through financial institutions to the various anchors and commodity associations for massive production of maize and other key commodities.
Speaking, he noted that, in 2021, CBN Launched the first maize pyramid in Katsina with total of over 3000 metric tonnes displayed, explaining that the project assisted in moderating the prices of Maize and ensuring steady supply.
According to the CBN boss, President Bihari had consistently championed the Anchor Borrower Programme and provided the CBN all the support required to work with all stakeholders in the agricultural sector to ensure the nation achieve transformation in the agricultural value chain.
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Abubakar Mohmud represented by the North West Zonal Director of Agriculture, Dr Timkat Vontav said the Ministry had strengthened the agricultural sector via different programmes including subsidizing the price of farm inputs such as seeds, chemicals, organic fertilizers, storage facilities as low as 10%.
President, Maize Farmers Association of Nigeria, Dr Bello Abubakar noted that each of the 21 Maize pyramids was constructed with between 30 – 79 trucks of maize.
He revealed that, through the Anchor Borrowers Programme, the association has acquired some mechanisation like tractors, combined harvesters, creating both direct and indirect jobs for the teeming youth.
