The Alternative Bank Limited is taking proactive steps to combat hunger and environmental distress in Ogoniland.Teaming up with over 800 local farmers, the bank has launched the Agricultural Community Support Programme (ACSP) in Bori, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, in collaboration with Global Entrepreneurship City Limited.

At the inauguration ceremony, Group Head of Agricultural Finance and Solid Minerals, Gbenga Awe, highlighted the ACSP’s mission, saying it was meant to fortify local farmers, address food security and elevate livelihoods.

A key focus is also boosting foreign exchange earnings through the export of processed agricultural products, he said. Represented by Head of Structured Trade Finance, Adelana Ogunjirin, Awe emphasized the bank’s commitment to financial inclusion, having provided over 800 farmers with bank accounts and debit cards.

Recognizing the impact of environmental pollution on the local population, the bank is extending agency banking services to the area to bridge the financial gap between rural and urban areas. Awe underscored the collaboration with Global Entrepreneurship, emphasising the importance of cassava cultivation.

“Our strategy is geared towards sustainability, creating jobs and contributing to foreign exchange earnings,” he stated. CEO of Global Entrepreneurship, Dr Douglas Fabeke, addressed the project’s significance, outlining plans for a cassava processing factory and an agricultural research centre to empower Ogoni farmers.

The project aims at reviving farming and fishing, which have been stalled by years of neglect. The Ogoni farmers, represented by Mary Eko Joe, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the bank for alleviating their struggles and supporting widows and orphans.