The Alternative Bank Limited, renowned for its innovative financial initiatives, has embarked on a proactive mission to combat hunger and environmental distress in Ogoniland, Rivers State.
Through a collaborative effort with Global Entrepreneurship City Limited, the bank inaugurated the Agricultural Community Support Programme (ACSP) in Bori, Khana Local Government Area.
The ACSP aims to strengthen local farmers, enhance food security, and improve livelihoods by partnering with more than 800 farmers. Gbenga Awe, the Group Head of Agricultural Finance and Solid Minerals, emphasized the programme’s focus on bolstering foreign exchange earnings through the export of processed agricultural products. Awe highlighted the bank’s commitment to financial inclusion by providing bank accounts and ATM debit cards to over 800 farmers.
The Alternative Bank aims to bridge the rural-urban financial gap by extending agency banking services, particularly acknowledging the environmental pollution’s impact on the local population. The collaboration with Global Entrepreneurship City Limited underscores the initial emphasis on cassava cultivation, with a strategic vision for sustainability, job creation, and boosting foreign exchange earnings.
Dr. Douglas Fabeke, CEO of Global Entrepreneurship City Limited, outlined ambitious plans for a cassava processing factory and an agricultural research center. Despite challenges such as the lack of start-up capital, the project intends to revive farming and fishing, pivotal occupations neglected for years.
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Mrs. Mary Eko Joe, representing the Ogoni farmers, expressed heartfelt gratitude to The Alternative Bank for their support in alleviating struggles and aiding widows and orphans. The farmers conveyed their appreciation and optimism for the ongoing success of The Alternative Bank, aligning with their shared commitment to community upliftment and progress.
