Major mechanisation push aims to empower farmers, increase yields, and strengthen Nigeria’s food independence.
The Bank of Agriculture and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security have rolled out more than 2,000 tractors and heavy-duty machines to mechanised farmers under the Renewed Hope National Agricultural Mechanisation Programme (NAMP).
Backed by Heifer International and Heifer Nigeria, the initiative is designed to modernise farming, expand production, and build a more resilient agricultural system. BOA Managing Director, Ayodeji Sontinrin, said the programme goes beyond handing out tractors—it’s about creating sustainable systems that support millions of smallholder farmers and drive long-term economic growth.
He urged beneficiaries to see the equipment as a national trust, maintain it properly, and use it to create jobs and expand agribusiness opportunities. He described the rollout as a historic milestone and one of Africa’s largest mechanisation efforts.
Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari revealed that over 100,000 applications were received, highlighting strong demand. He clarified the tractors would operate under a regulated lease-to-own model through mechanisation service providers—not private ownership—ensuring wider access for farmers.
Each tractor is expected to cover about 600 hectares yearly, potentially reaching 1.2 million farmers and boosting productivity across 1.5 million hectares. The programme also prioritises youth and women-led enterprises, with financing options like leasing and hire-purchase to ensure sustainability.
Officials say the move will reduce manual labour, increase yields, create jobs, and fast-track Nigeria’s journey toward food security and global agricultural competitiveness.
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