Follow Us on Google
The federal government, in collaboration with Heifer International Nigeria, has announced plans to deploy 10,000 John Deere tractors over the next five years to revolutionise farming practices across the country.
Highlighting Nigeria’s critical mechanisation gap, the government revealed that the nation’s tractor density currently stands at 0.27 tractors per 1,000 hectares, far below the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) recommended minimum of 1.5 tractors per 1,000 hectares. The revelation was made at a Stakeholders’ Mechanization Workshop organised by the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) in Abuja.
The initiative aims to address the country’s mechanization deficit, which has long hindered agricultural productivity and modernization.
Speaking at the workshop, Mohammed Abu Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of NADF, described the low mechanisation rate as a significant obstacle to Nigeria’s agricultural progress. He stated: “Mechanization in Nigeria has become a bit of a challenge, as you’re all aware. Our mechanization rates are very low, and this directly impacts our farmers’ yields and broader economic development indices. The programme seeks to introduce 2,000 tractors in the pilot phase with the objective to achieve a robust and inclusive implementation plan.”
The pilot phase, set to deploy 2,000 tractors within six months, will serve as a blueprint for scaling up operations to achieve the deployment of 10,000 tractors by 2029. Ibrahim emphasized the importance of the workshop in shaping the initiative, adding:
“We have invited stakeholders to share their experiences, identify pain points, and offer solutions. This collective input will guide us in creating a sustainable and inclusive framework for implementation.
“This is just one of five mechanization programs planned under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The goal is to radically transform Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, create job opportunities, and foster economic growth through modernized farming practices.”
Dr. Lekan Tobe, Country Director of Heifer International Nigeria, underscored the critical role of partnerships in achieving the program’s objectives. He noted:
“Tractors rarely come to mind when we think of agricultural technology, but they are indispensable in enhancing productivity.
“The commitment of stakeholders, many of whom are present today, is crucial to realizing this vision. It’s about creating a ripple effect—jobs, training, and maintenance opportunities beyond the immediate deployment of tractors.”
