Women in agriculture should leverage BoI N10bn scheme – Expert

The Association of Women in Agriculture (NAWIA) has urged women to take full advantage of the recently Bank of Industry (BoI) support scheme aimed at boosting small-scale farming and agribusiness in the state.

The association’s coordinator, Oshodi/lsolo, Alhaja Mulikat Ogunlola, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on Thursday in Lagos.

Supreme news reports that the appeal followed the BoI recently partnered the Women Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (WCCIMA), to provide support to small business owners, including farmers.

The BoI in March announced the launch of a special intervention programme called Project Guaranteed Loans for Women, a N10 billion fund in partnership WCCIMA aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs.

The scheme is designed to improve access to finance, build capacity, and encourage entrepreneurship across various sectors.

The programme provides funding opportunities of up to N10 million to support women-led businesses. The initiative is part of BoI’s broader strategy to prioritise gender-focused financial inclusion.

Ogunlola said women need to start small, remain accountable, and keep detailed records of their farming activities.

“You don’t need acres of land to start farming. A small backyard or compound space can be the perfect starting point for projects like fish farming. What matters is that you add value to yourself and to society.

“While farming is increasingly seen as a viable economic activity, it still demands creativity and discipline. Farming is not for the lazy. Regardless of gender, one must be hardworking and consistent,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of proper management and record-keeping in order to attract funding.

“If you demonstrate financial responsibility and keep good records, you’ll be more likely to attract support from banks and private investors.

“This is a timely opportunity for women farmers. The support is there, but we must show that we are serious about what we do,” she said.

She further revealed that her organisation had helped form joint farming ventures among women, including collective purchase of land for rice cultivation and training in fish farming.

For women who lack access to land or resources, assistance is available.

“With the right mindset and tools, every woman can succeed in agriculture. Start small, be accountable, and leverage the support systems around you,” she advised.