FG, Experts Applaud Moniepoint for Showcasing North East’s Agric Resilience, Empowering Farmers with Digital Tools
The Federal Government has commended Moniepoint Inc. for its contribution to Nigeria’s agricultural sector, particularly in strengthening the resilience of the North East’s agricultural value chain and empowering smallholder farmers with innovative digital payment solutions.
The commendation came during a private screening in Abuja of “Inside Nigeria’s Food Chain”, a 12-minute documentary and case study produced by Moniepoint. The project highlights the food supply chain in Borno State and the broader North East region, showing how cultivation and distribution processes connect local farmers to markets nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Tope Fasua, Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs in the Office of the Vice President, described the project as an “eye-opener,” noting that it captures how fintech-driven financial inclusion is transforming rural communities not typically associated with technology adoption.
“I have firsthand experience of how Moniepoint is changing market dynamics for good. It was heartwarming to see the digitization happening at the grassroots with people you would not normally associate with technology adoption,” Fasua said.
Despite security challenges in the North East, he noted, farmers have continued to produce grains, livestock, and other agricultural goods, reflecting the region’s resilience. “On the financial inclusion front, it is delightful to see the confidence people now have in digital payments, and Moniepoint has done a fantastic job in deepening adoption across the country,” he added.
A key finding from the case study emphasized that Nigeria’s informal, trust-based food networks — built on generational knowledge and social capital — are not weaknesses to be formalized but strategic assets that have proven more adaptable than formal institutions during times of crisis.
Edidiong Uwemakpan, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Moniepoint Inc., explained that the project was driven by a desire to spotlight real people and real impact:
“In view of the amounts we process monthly as a business, we sought to peel back the layers on the naira and kobo and uncover the stories behind the transactions. As a Nigerian company, we’ve built trust through hyperlocal support, tailoring our services to fit the lifestyle and trading habits of Nigerians.”
She added that while Borno State is often defined by insecurity narratives, the documentary highlights its agricultural diversity and its significant role in feeding millions of Nigerians.
Also speaking, communications strategist Tolu Ogunlesi praised the initiative for reframing the narrative about the region.
“Many towns in the North East became famous for insecurity, not agriculture. This project allows us to appreciate their real contributions to national development. Despite years of trauma, they continue to feed the nation,” Ogunlesi said.
The screening, held at Genesis Cinema, Abuja, was attended by stakeholders from civil society organizations, the diplomatic community, security agencies, policy institutions, and the media.
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