By Faridat Salifu
In a significant move to enhance the productivity of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the federal government announced its intention to implement a comprehensive mechanisation plan.
This strategic initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s administration agenda, specifically focusing on ensuring food security for the nation.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, conveyed the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges of mechanisation in Nigeria.
He highlighted the country’s comparatively low level of mechanisation in the agricultural sector, particularly when compared to other nations in sub-Saharan Africa.
Citing data from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Kyari revealed that Nigeria currently has only 0.27 tractors per 1,000 hectares of cropland, a figure significantly lower than that of South Africa and Ghana.
Kyari underscored President Tinubu’s endorsement of the mechanisation programme and affirmed the government’s determination to facilitate robust and sustainable production of staple food commodities.
During a crucial implementation review and preparatory meeting for the upcoming dry-season farming, attended by key officials including the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the government reiterated its commitment to collaborate with stakeholders and state governments.
The goal is to establish a genuine farmers’ register for the subsidised dry-season farming implementation.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, highlighted the President’s unwavering commitment to transforming the agricultural sector.
He emphasized that the ongoing dry-season farming initiatives exemplify the government’s dedication to delivering on its promises.
The Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts, emphasizing the potential for a successful dry-season harvest.
This success, he noted, would lead to increased food supply, lower food prices, poverty alleviation, job creation, and overall economic stability.
The government’s initiative to roll out the mechanisation plan reflects its dedication to transforming the agricultural landscape and ensuring long-term food security for Nigeria.
