NADF to facilitate supply of 10,000 tractors in 5 years

Nigeria is facing a pivotal moment in its agricultural development, as highlighted by Mohammed Abu Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF). Speaking at the 32nd convocation of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ibrahim emphasized that in the face of a rapidly growing population and declining productivity, Nigeria must significantly enhance its food availability, accessibility, and affordability.

Central to this effort is the NADF’s strategic alignment with the federal government’s blueprint for agriculture. A key component of this plan is the launch of an ambitious mechanisation programme in collaboration with global industry players John Deere and TATA Africa Services. The initiative aims to deploy 10,000 tractors over five years—with an initial rollout of 2,000 tractors in the current year—which is expected to generate jobs, boost crop yields, and position Nigerian agriculture on a competitive global stage.

Ibrahim also underscored the stark contrasts in Nigeria’s agricultural output over the decades. In 1960, with a population of approximately 45.9 million, the country produced substantial quantities of palm oil, groundnuts, and cocoa, commanding impressive shares of the global market. Today, despite a population surge to about 213.4 million, these figures have dwindled significantly, highlighting a critical need for modernisation and investment in agricultural research and technology. The NADF has recently completed a needs assessment of 16 agricultural research institutes and 17 federal colleges of agriculture, pinpointing areas that require urgent funding and private sector collaboration. Additionally, investments in ginger cultivation have been made to ensure the steady supply of rhizomes, vital for sustaining production in subsequent seasons.

This narrative not only reflects the pressing challenges but also the innovative opportunities within Nigeria’s agribusiness sector—ranging from the use of drones for crop monitoring to digital platforms connecting farmers with markets—underscoring that agriculture is evolving into a dynamic arena of technological and commercial potential.
Source: DailyTrust

Expert Review for Agri-Food Stakeholders

1. Mechanisation and Technological Integration: The planned mechanisation programme represents a critical investment in modernising Nigerian agriculture. Deploying tractors will not only improve field operations but also significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of smallholder and commercial farms alike. The partnership with established global brands like John Deere and TATA Africa Services introduces proven technologies and management practices that could serve as a catalyst for wider sectoral transformation.
2. Research and Development Investment: The focus on assessing and funding agricultural research institutes and colleges is a commendable step. Bridging the funding gap in research is essential for developing context-specific innovations and adapting modern agritech solutions to local conditions. This strategic shift can drive yield improvements and contribute to sustainable farming practices in the long term.
3. Market Competitiveness and Export Potential: The historical data provided, which shows a drastic drop in Nigeria’s global market share in key crops like palm oil, groundnuts, and cocoa, underlines the urgency for a policy reset and re-investment in quality improvements. Revitalising these sectors through mechanisation and improved research could potentially restore and even expand Nigeria’s influence in global agri-food markets.

Recommendations for Stakeholders

1. Accelerate Investment in Modern Equipment: Stakeholders, including government agencies and private investors, should prioritise investments in mechanisation to reduce labour constraints and enhance productivity. This will not only improve the operational efficiency of farms but also create employment opportunities in the agribusiness value chain.
2. Enhance Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between government entities, research institutions, and private investors will be pivotal. Such partnerships can drive innovation, facilitate technology transfer, and open avenues for financing modern farming practices and agri-tech startups.
3. Focus on Sustainable and Scalable Research: There is a need to design and implement research projects that focus on sustainable farming practices and are scalable across Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecological zones. Prioritising research in areas such as climate-resilient crops, soil health, and digital agriculture will support long-term productivity and environmental stewardship.
4. Leverage Data-Driven Approaches: Embracing data analytics, precision farming, and digital market platforms will empower farmers to make informed decisions, optimise resource use, and gain competitive advantages in both local and international markets.

By addressing these strategic areas, Nigeria’s agribusiness sector can overcome current productivity challenges and tap into the vast potential of an innovative, technology-driven agricultural landscape.