In order to effectively address hunger issues across the country and to show a strong commitment to achieving food sufficiency, Governor Umar Bago of Niger State has taken delivery of 300 tractors from a firm, John Deere Ltd.
The governor, while visiting Minna Airport with other government officials to inspect tractors and handheld equipment delivered to the state, highlighted the importance of promoting farming practices, providing support to farmers, and implementing policies that prioritize agricultural development.
He stressed that investing in agriculture can create opportunities for food production and distribution, which are crucial in combating hunger, adding that with concerted efforts and proper management, agriculture can play a significant role in ensuring food security and reducing hunger across the nation.
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Bago disclosed that the delivery is happening in phases, with over 300 tractors and 1,000 handheld devices expected by the end of the month in the first phase alone, and that the state plans to receive more than 1,000 tractors within the next six months.
According to him, land clearance using bulldozers has already covered more than a million hectares for cultivation under the initiative, which aims to support the national policy on food security, with Niger State leading the way as a pilot program.
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Governor Bago explained that the delivery is part of a partnership worth $650 million with John Deere Limited, a top tractor manufacturer, while pointing out that the state is collaborating with various agricultural investors and mentioning upcoming plans for irrigation kits.
The governor referred to farmers in the state as the beneficiaries of the agricultural equipment, as he encouraged them to see agriculture as a way out of hunger in Nigeria.
