NANTS Distributes Grinding Machines to 20 VSLA Groups in Niger State - The National Association of Nigerian Traders NANTS

The National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS), in partnership with the Niger State/AGRA Consortium, has distributed grains processing machines to 20 Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) groups in Niger State. The initiative was part of the project titled Improving Farmer Resilience and Upscaling Productivity, Income, and Livelihoods in Rice, Maize, Soybeans, Cowpea, and Vegetable Value Chains in Niger.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ken Ukaoha, President of NANTS, highlighted the exceptional performance of the VSLA groups in financial management, regular attendance at meetings, and effective record-keeping.

“Women-dominated VSLA groups stood out as the most outstanding, showcasing exceptional administrative skills. We believe this recognition will inspire others to follow their example,” Dr. Ukaoha said.

He added that the initiative, which began three years ago, has mobilized and monitored over 2,000 VSLA groups in Niger State. The distribution of the machines is expected to boost morale and enhance the productivity of the beneficiaries.

The Commissioner for Agriculture in Niger State, Alhaji Bawa Musa Bosso, commended the project, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to reducing poverty through job creation for smallholder farmers.

In his remarks, Mr. Godswill Agwuyi, Programme Officer of AGRA, urged the beneficiaries to utilize the machines effectively and foster the growth of new cooperatives.

Similarly, the Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Niger State, Alhaji Shehu Galadima, applauded the AGRA/Niger Consortium project. He encouraged women cooperatives to leverage the state’s agricultural revolution for further development.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Rhoda Tsado of Victory Cooperative, expressed gratitude, stating, “This project has enabled our cooperatives to save money, access credit facilities, and improve our livelihoods.”

The VSLA programme aims to empower rural communities, particularly women, by providing access to savings and credit opportunities, fostering financial independence and sustainability.