馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Agricultural mechanisation key to Nigeria's food security, says Agcoms CEO
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Okoli Chijioke, Chief Executive Officer of Agcoms International Trading Limited, stated that agricultural mechanisation is crucial for increasing food production, improving productivity, and strengthening Nigeria鈥檚 food security. He expressed support for President Bola Tinubu鈥檚 agricultural reforms, highlighting mechanisation as a driver of economic growth and rural development. Chijioke noted that the Federal Government鈥檚 focus on modern farming equipment is vital for raising farm productivity, strengthening agricultural value chains, and attracting young Nigerians to agriculture. A significant milestone in this effort was the National Agricultural Development Fund's $70 million agreement with Agcoms in January for 2,000 tractors and other equipment, including 100 combine harvesters. This initiative, recognised as one of 40 key achievements of the Tinubu administration, also includes local assembly of agricultural machinery to promote technology transfer, create jobs, and enhance technical capacity. Chijioke emphasised that successful mechanisation programmes require not only equipment but also operator training, maintenance systems, financing solutions, and reliable after-sales services to ensure sustainable outcomes. This integrated approach helps farmers improve efficiency and increase yields. The mechanisation initiative was first announced by President Tinubu in October 2024, with the Federal Executive Council approving a local assembly plant for various agricultural eq
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