FG unveils agric mechanisation policy, plans 4,000-capacity tractor plant

The Federal Government has introduced the National Agricultural Mechanisation Policy and Strategy, with ambitions to build a tractor plant capable of producing between 2,000 and 4,000 units per year. The initiative was unveiled during a High-Level National Policy Dialogue on Agricultural Mechanisation held in Abuja. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, explained that the policy aims to transform Nigeria from an agricultural potential into a powerhouse, moving from mechanization deficit to leadership, and from food vulnerability to sovereignty.

Kyari emphasized that mechanization encompasses more than just tractor use, covering various aspects of farming. The government has already begun procuring and deploying 2,000 tractors and over 9,000 implements and spare parts under the Renewed Hope National Agricultural Mechanisation Programme. This intervention is considered the largest single agricultural mechanization program ever undertaken in Africa.

The proposed tractor assembly plant would reduce dependence on imported machinery, create jobs, and support the development of a sustainable mechanization economy. Kyari encouraged investors, youths, and women to participate in the emerging mechanization economy.