Yemisi Izuora
The Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has advised bandits operating in the forests to embrace its Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, to make a genuine livelihood.
Emefiele, made the call on Tuesday while addressing journalists at the end of the two day Monetary Policy Committee meeting, MPC, which had linked security challenges in the country to the rising inflation which is at 18.12 per cent.
The food component is a key driver at 22.72 per cent and driven by banditary, terrorism and insecurity, particular in the North which contributes largely to Nigeria’s food supply.
Emefiele said, “Security institutions are doing their best to tackle insecurity and I must say this, Nigerians know that about three years ago, the Federal Government and the United States Government signed a pact that resulted in acquisition of military equipment.
“Part of this were essentially twelve Tucano Aircrafts or fighter planes that will help us combat security.
“We would like to appeal to our brothers who reside in the bushes and forest, that they should begin to retreat, drop their arms and come and embrace the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme.”
He said if they do so it will help them, adding “but if they choose not to do so, then they will be confronted by the security.”
He was optimistic that by the end of 2021, security challenges in the country will abate.