Food Security: Nigeria plans 10,000 tractors for mechanised farming
In a bold move to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) has been tasked with leading the deployment of 10,000 John Deere tractors across the country. This initiative, backed by a presidential directive, aims to enhance farm productivity, reduce manual labor, and attract younger generations into agriculture through mechanisation.
The phased rollout will commence with an initial 2,000 tractors in the first and second quarters of 2025, with full implementation expected within five years. The agreement was formalized in Abuja between NADF and AGCOMS International Trading Limited, the authorised dealer of John Deere tractors.
According to NADF’s Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, the Federal Executive Council approved the project in October 2024, followed by extensive consultations with both local and international stakeholders. The deal signifies a strategic effort to modernize Nigerian agriculture, improve efficiency, and drive increased food production.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, underscored the importance of mechanisation in tackling sectoral challenges, particularly the ageing farming population and the physically demanding nature of traditional farming. He noted that the mechanisation policy aligns with the administration’s broader agenda of boosting agricultural yields and ensuring national food security.
Beyond enhancing productivity, this mechanisation drive is expected to create employment opportunities, stimulate agribusiness investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s food supply chain. With AGCOMS delivering the equipment and NADF providing institutional support, the initiative could mark a turning point in the nation’s quest for agricultural transformation.
Source: Punch
Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders
The deployment of 10,000 John Deere tractors under the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) marks a critical intervention in Nigeria’s mechanisation drive. While this initiative has the potential to enhance productivity and attract youth participation in agriculture, its impact will depend on effective implementation, accessibility, and long-term sustainability. Below are key considerations for stakeholders:
- Mechanisation as a Game Changer for Nigerian Agriculture
Deploying 10,000 tractors represents a significant investment in mechanisation, which is critical for improving efficiency, increasing yields, and reducing post-harvest losses. However, the success of this initiative depends on ensuring equitable distribution, proper maintenance infrastructure, and access to financing for smallholder farmers who may struggle with affordability. - Sustainability and Access to Mechanisation
While large-scale tractor deployment is a positive step, an effective mechanisation model must include rental services, cooperative ownership schemes, and private-sector partnerships to make these machines accessible to small and medium-scale farmers. Establishing agro-mechanisation hubs in key farming regions can facilitate shared access and enhance utilization rates. - Youth and Women Inclusion in Agriculture
The mechanisation initiative has the potential to attract more youth and women into farming by reducing physical labor and increasing profitability. However, complementary policies such as skills training, financing support, and market linkages are essential to ensure their full participation and long-term engagement. - Infrastructure and Value Chain Development
Mechanisation alone will not solve Nigeria’s agricultural challenges if other bottlenecks, such as poor rural roads, lack of storage facilities, and limited processing capacity, remain unaddressed. To maximize impact, stakeholders must integrate mechanisation with broader value chain development strategies, ensuring that increased production translates into economic gains for farmers. - Implementation and Long-Term Strategy
Beyond signing contracts and procuring tractors, the government must focus on the sustainability of this initiative. Clear policies on operator training, after-sales service, and spare parts availability will determine its long-term success. Additionally, linking mechanisation efforts with smart agriculture technologies, such as precision farming and digital extension services, can further enhance productivity.
The large-scale mechanisation project is a commendable step towards modernizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector. However, its success will require strategic implementation, stakeholder collaboration, and the development of complementary infrastructure. If properly executed, this initiative could drive agricultural transformation, boost food security, and position Nigeria as a leading agribusiness hub in Africa.
