The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially commenced the application process for the 2026 funding cycle of its flagship Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP). This initiative provides a significant financial lifeline, offering citizens interest-free loans of up to ₦300,000 to support and grow their businesses.
What is the GEEP Loan Programme?
Administered by the Bank of Industry under the National Social Investment Programme, GEEP is a cornerstone of the administration's economic inclusion strategy. It is specifically designed to bridge the financing gap for micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs), which are often sidelined by traditional banks due to stringent collateral demands and high-interest rates.
The programme directly targets grassroots entrepreneurs, including petty traders, market women, artisans, farmers, and youth business owners across the nation. By removing the barrier of interest and collateral, it aims to stimulate economic activity at the most fundamental level.
Key Benefits and Loan Products
The GEEP scheme stands out for its borrower-friendly terms. The most notable advantage is that loans are provided completely free of interest. Furthermore, beneficiaries are granted a moratorium or grace period, typically around three months, before repayments commence. This allows entrepreneurs time to invest the funds and begin generating income.
The programme is delivered through three main tailored products:
- TraderMoni: Aimed at petty traders and artisans, it often starts with smaller loan amounts that can increase upon successful repayment, building a credit history for the beneficiary.
- MarketMoni: Targeted at market associations and cooperatives, this product offers loans usually ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦100,000 for small business owners and market women.
- FarmerMoni: Designed for smallholder farmers, this offers the highest support, with loans up to ₦300,000 to finance agricultural inputs, equipment, and expansion projects.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for a GEEP loan, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 years and above. Essential requirements include a valid Bank Verification Number (BVN) and an active bank account. Applicants must be actively engaged in a verifiable micro or small business, farming activity, or skilled trade.
For certain products like MarketMoni, membership in a registered association or cooperative may be necessary. Programme officers conduct verification and enumeration exercises prior to disbursement to confirm the legitimacy of applications.
Interested and eligible Nigerians can apply by visiting the official portal at https://geep.nsipa.gov.ng/. The process involves creating a profile, providing accurate personal and business details, selecting the appropriate loan product, and submitting the application for review. Successful applicants will be notified with clear instructions on fund disbursement and repayment schedules.
Broader Context of Government Empowerment Schemes
The opening of the GEEP portal aligns with a series of empowerment initiatives rolled out by the administration. This follows recent announcements like the 12-month paid internship scheme offering a monthly stipend of ₦150,000 to selected Nigerian youths.
Additionally, the government, through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), launched the YouthCred scheme. That programme allows youths aged 18 to 39 to access larger loans of up to ₦5 million to build formal credit history and reduce dependence on unregulated lenders.
The consistent theme across these programmes is a focused drive to enhance financial inclusion, empower the productive base of the economy, and provide tangible support to Nigerians navigating current economic challenges. The GEEP 2026 cycle represents a critical opportunity for millions of small business owners to secure the capital needed for growth and sustainability.
