Enugu Assembly Adopts Motion On Credit Facility

The Enugu State House of Assembly has adopted a motion authorising the state government to renew a N1 billion credit facility from Fidelity Bank under the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS).

Presenting the motion during plenary on Tuesday in Enugu, the sponsor, Mr Chinedu Nwamba (PDP-Nsukka East), noted that agriculture was a key component in the state desire to diversify and boost its economy, create employment and ensure increased food production.

He said that the state government had obtained similar loan which was applied in the establishment of the Songhai Farm and other commercial agricultural development projects.

Nwamba said that since the state government lacked enough money to finance its numerous projects, the need to utilise the opportunity provided by the credit scheme to expand agriculture projects would not be over-emphasised.

In the three point prayers of the motion co-sponsored by 15 others, they prayed. “That this honourable House do resolve to urge Enugu State government to renew the N1 billion credit facility from Fidelity Bank Plc under the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme.

“That when renewed, the purpose for which the facility was obtained should be followed strictly.

“That Enugu State government should endeavour to comply with the conditions of the facility including timely repayment of same, be it moved and it is hereby moved.”

Supporting the motion, Mr John Nwankwo (PDP- Nkanu- East), said the motion was very apt because if agriculture was boosted it would reduce the state’s dependency on federal allocation.

Also contributing, Mr Okechukwu Nwoke, (PDP-Igboetiti West), said the essence of the credit scheme could not be over-flogged as it would boost food production, create employment and increase the revenue profile of the state.

He suggested the inauguration of a technical committee for the effective management of the credit facility, when obtained.

Putting the question for the adoption of the motion, the Speaker, Mr Eugene Odo, urged the assembly committee on agriculture to ensure that the purpose for which the credit facility was obtained would be strictly implemented.