Jigawa State Government has flagged off the distribution of N1.2 billion for the second phase of its civil servants’ agricultural loan scheme.
The programme was initiated in 2024 with the state approving N3 billion, which was accessed by 8,828 civil servants and public officials.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Dutse, the state capital, Governor Umar Namadi, represented by his deputy, Engr. Aminu Usman, said the initiative aligns with his administration’s policy of improving civil servants’ welfare beyond salaries.
He explained that the agricultural loan was designed to help workers to diversify their income sources while contributing to national food security.
Engr. Aminu added that the state government was satisfied with the outcome of the first phase, noting that this encouraged further investment in the scheme.
“As the government continues to receive repayments from first-phase beneficiaries, we are launching the second phase, targeting 5,750 workers under the state and local government payroll,” the deputy governor stated.
At the event, the State Head of Civil Service, Muhammad Dagaceri commended the government for approving the second phase, acknowledged its positive impact on 2024 beneficiaries.
“The same criteria used last year were applied in selecting the 2025 beneficiaries, and we are optimistic of achieving similar success by the end of the farming season, he said.
“This scheme has enhanced our workers’ capacity to engage in commercial farming—a benefit that extends beyond their service years. Even after retirement, they will have a sustainable means of additional income. We appreciate this laudable initiative,” Dagaceri declared.
