NGO Improves Capacity of Rural Farmers

A non-governmental organization, The Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO), said it has improved the capacity of rural farmers and business owners through on-farm demonstrations, workshops and training programmes.

Dr Honestus Obadiora, Executive Director of LAPO, mentioned at LAPO’s Annual Media Forum and stated that loans were disbursed to farmers in 303 branches in 22 states.

The loans were made available to 262,977 farmers through the LAPO Agricultural and Rural Development Initiative (LARDI).

He stated that between January and December 2022, N23.5 billion, under the LARDI program, was distributed to enhance the livelihood of rural farmers and support microbusinesses.

Also, LAPO revealed that its N70 billion credit facility provided to farmers and rural residents between 2007 and 2022 has improved the productivity, income, and standard of living of the beneficiaries.

He expressed delight that the loans had improved the productivity, income, and standard of living of the beneficiaries and contributed to rural agricultural development.

“LARDI has also helped in improving the availability of inputs for improved farm yield and building the capacity of rural farmers and business owners through on-farm demonstrations, workshops and training programmes.

“The mandate of LARDI is to improve income, food security and general living conditions of rural households, particularly women-headed households and youths,” he added.

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