In a groundbreaking move for the agricultural sector, the Mbaise Policy Roundtable (MPR) has facilitated ₦20 million in credit access for ten farming clusters in Mbaise.
This initiative, unveiled at the 2025 MPR Annual Global Summit, was made possible through a ₦1 million counterpart funding investment, unlocking financial opportunities for local farmers.
The counterpart funding program is designed to enhance agricultural development by providing matching funds to encourage sustainable farming and productivity. Through this initiative, farmers receive financial backing from government and financial institutions, effectively doubling the resources available for agricultural projects.
In partnership with Array Ventures, an agripreneur consultancy led by Ms. Ngozi Beulah Okechukwu, MPR’s ₦1 million investment has enabled Mbaise farmers to access the ₦20 million credit facility through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme Fund (ACGSF). The ACGSF provides guarantees to financial institutions, encouraging them to grant loans to farmers who might otherwise struggle to secure credit.
Speaking at a gathering at Chris VII Hotel in Mbaise, MPR Chairman, Professor Eddie Oparaoji, expressed excitement about the initiative. “I am truly excited that we are bringing this innovative financial access program to reality. This investment of ₦1 million in counterpart funding collectively provides up to ₦20 million in credit for various agricultural activities. This is our first step toward creative access to capital, and if successful, it will greatly benefit Mbaise.”
The official presentation of the ₦1 million check was made by MPR representatives, including Chief Program Director Dr. Jude Iheoma and former Minister, Her Excellency Professor Viola Onwuliri.
Professor Onwuliri praised the initiative, calling it a transformative step toward agricultural empowerment. “This project puts you, the beneficiaries, in the driver’s seat to make Mbaise an agricultural powerhouse. I commend MPR for its visionary leadership under Professor Oparaoji and for supporting young entrepreneurs like Ms. Ngozi Beulah Okechukwu. This program is a model for youth empowerment and economic growth,” she said.
Dr. Jude Iheoma also emphasized the significance of this moment, stating, “We are ecstatic to have reached this stage in our effort to overcome financial obstacles for rural farmers. Your success in this initiative will determine the expansion of similar programs.”
In response, representatives from the three local governments expressed their appreciation for the MPR’s support, pledging to use the funds effectively and praying for the continued success of the initiative’s sponsors.
The beneficiaries of this initiative include:
- Mrs. Onwujaiariri Scholastica Akujinma
- Nze Rowland Chilaka
- Mr. Francis Chilaka
- Ms. Amarachi Stanley
- Mr. Ugoma Uzziah
- Mr. Jerry Ezeribe
- Chief Onyenwe Ferdinand
- Mr. Julian Ogu
- Chief Enwerem Athenasius
- Mr. Evans Agughalam
This investment marks a significant milestone in agricultural development in Mbaise, reinforcing MPR’s commitment to financial empowerment, innovation, and sustainability in the farming sector. With increased access to credit, local farmers are now positioned for greater productivity and economic stability.
Also present at the event was MPR Publicity Secretary, Mr. Peculiar Oluebube, among other key stakeholders.
