Smart Consults

I was privileged to work alongside an exceptional team of consultants and the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) technical team during the strategic review of the draft Northwest Rice Diagnostic Study under the State Agribusiness Investment Programme Rice Help Desk initiative.

The workshop provided an invaluable platform to critically review the draft, exchange expertise, and strengthen the evidence base of the study. Our collective effort focused on ensuring that the diagnostic is both empirically robust and responsive to the unique agricultural, institutional, and market realities of each state while aligning with broader regional priorities. A strong, data-driven diagnostic is essential for informing evidence-based policies, guiding strategic investments, and accelerating the transformation of Nigeria's rice value chain. It is encouraging to contribute to an initiative that supports the country's ambition of achieving rice self-sufficiency by 2030.

One of the key investment opportunities in Katsina State is the development of solar mini-grids for rice processing clusters, as unreliable electricity supply was identified as the major constraint affecting rice processors, increasing production costs and reducing operational efficiency.

I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such dedicated professionals and look forward to seeing the impact of this important work on agricultural development and food security in Nigeria.

Today, during the VSLA Training of Trainers (ToT), I had the privilege of strengthening participants’ capacity on VSLA group leadership formation. We walked through the democratic election process for key leadership roles—Chairperson, Record Keeper, Box Keeper, and Money Counters—emphasizing transparency, accountability, and effective group governance.

Building strong leadership structures is key to sustainable VSLA success.

The year kicked off on a high note with an exciting engagement focused on expanding financial inclusion in Nigeria through the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) approach.

In Lafia, Nasarawa State, I had the privilege of leading a team of VSLA experts to deliver a Training of Trainers (ToT) for 30 Facilitating Officers. The session introduced the VSLA methodology and clearly distinguished it from the cooperative model, emphasizing its community-led and sustainable nature.

We also explored the critical phases of the VSLA cycle—Preparatory, Intensive (12 weeks), Development (12 weeks), and Maturity (12–26 weeks)—highlighting their importance for long-term success and impact.

Grateful to Emeraid CMC and Heifer International for the opportunity to contribute to strengthening grassroots financial systems and empowering communities.