The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) and Heifer International Nigeria have partnered to roll out 10,000 John Deere tractors over five years, aiming to modernize farming and boost productivity in Nigeria’s agriculture sector. Mohammed Abu Ibrahim, executive secretary of NADF, announced the initiative during a workshop in Abuja, highlighting the urgent need to address the nation’s mechanization deficit.
Speaking at the event, Ibrahim emphasized that Nigeria’s reliance on manual and outdated farming tools severely hampers agricultural productivity. “Our mechanization rates are very low, directly impacting farmers’ yields and economic growth. This program’s pilot phase will deploy 2,000 tractors, setting the stage for a broader, inclusive implementation plan,” he said.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders to collaborate on creating a sustainable framework for the initiative. “We’re gathering insights to address specific challenges and ensure the program’s success,” Ibrahim added. He also revealed that the tractor deployment plan is part of five mechanization programs under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, designed to transform thec, generate jobs, and drive economic growth.
Lekan Tobe, country director of Heifer International Nigeria, underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving these goals. “Tractors may not be the first thing that comes to mind for agricultural technology, but they are indispensable for enhancing productivity,” Tobe stated. He highlighted the program’s potential to create ripple effects, such as jobs, training, and maintenance opportunities, beyond the initial deployment.
The pilot phase of 2,000 tractors is set for completion within six months, with the full deployment of 10,000 tractors planned over the next five years. Current statistics show that Nigeria’s tractor density is just 0.27 tractors per 1,000 hectares, far below the c Organization’s (FAO) recommended minimum of 1.5 tractors per 1,000 hectares.
The partnership between NADF, Heifer International, and other stakeholders has been lauded as a transformative step for Nigeria’s agriculture sector. By bridging the mechanization gap, the initiative positions Nigeria to lead in agricultural innovation across Africa, fostering a more productive and sustainable farming future.
