In a bid to enhance the value proposition of Civil Servants and promote inclusivity, the Federal Government, through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), has initiated the 2nd batch training for the Agriprenuership Start-up Scheme for 2023.
The scheme aligns with the administration’s commitment to drawing on all skill bases and follows Pillar 6 of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP25).
The training program, declared open by Mr. Mahmud Adam Kambari, the Permanent Secretary of the Service Welfare Office, aims to provide participating Civil Servants with the opportunity to explore multiple streams of income through agriculture and its value chain.
Mr. Kambari emphasized that the scheme goes beyond a mere venture, serving as a testament to the belief in the untapped potential within each individual, regardless of their professional background. It not only aligns with the Constitution and the revised Public Service Rules but also prepares prospective retirees for life after service.
Four ministries and extra-ministerial departments, including OHCSF, Federal Ministries of Health, Aviation, Aerospace, and the State House, are actively participating in the program, with a total of Ninety-Eight (98) trainees.
The involvement of key stakeholders and partners such as the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), Bank of Agriculture (BOA), and selected farmers has played a crucial role in realizing the goals of the program.
Dr. AbdulGaniyu Obatoyinbo, the Administrator of PSIN, stressed the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset for all Civil Servants, emphasizing that holding onto a skill or vocation is a pathway to creating wealth. The representative of the participants, Mr. John Esabu, highlighted the positive impact the scheme will have on retirees, alleviating fears and boosting their post-service lifestyles.
The comprehensive training, encompassing theoretical components from November 20th to 24th, 2023, and hands-on practical training at selected farms from November 27th to December 8th, 2023, aims to equip participants with the necessary skills. Moreover, the Bank of Agriculture will provide loans to beneficiaries at the end of the training, fostering self-sufficiency and sustainability.
The Federal Government expresses gratitude to all stakeholders and partners for their invaluable contributions to the Agriprenuership Start-up Scheme, marking a significant step towards harnessing the untapped potential in agriculture and entrepreneurship sectors for sustainable development and economic growth.