The federal government has concluded a $70 million procurement contract with AGCOMS International Trading Limited, the Nigerian partner of agricultural equipment manufacturer John Deere, to supply 2,000 tractors as part of a nationwide mechanization program.
The initiative is managed by the National Agricultural Development Fund and builds on a 2023 Memorandum of Understanding with John Deere, aimed at deploying a total of 10,000 tractors over the next five years.
The first batch of tractors is expected to arrive ahead of the wet planting season. The contract includes the supply of tractors as well as key farming implements such as plows, harrows, ridgers, and 100 combined harvesters. Farmers will be able to pick up their equipment from designated centers in Abuja and Lagos, with installment payment options available.
A central component of the deal is the establishment of a local assembly plant near Nigerian ports, which will enhance domestic manufacturing capacity. This move is expected to create jobs and facilitate the transfer of technical knowledge, contributing to the country’s long-term agricultural development. The local assembly will also integrate advanced agricultural technologies into Nigeria’s farming practices.
In an effort to address potential delays, the NADF has collaborated with the Nigerian Ports Authority to streamline the logistics of importing the equipment. The $70 million package also includes training programs for local technicians, ensuring ongoing technical support for farmers.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, emphasized that the mechanization program is crucial for revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He highlighted the goals of increasing mechanization, expanding farmlands, and tackling the challenges posed by an aging farming population. Kyari noted that the program would also help to attract more youth and women to agriculture by reducing the physical strain of traditional farming methods. He urged AGCOMS International to expedite the delivery and distribution of the equipment in time for the upcoming planting season.
“Our goal is to increase mechanization, expand farmlands, and address the challenges of an aging farming population. This initiative will also encourage youth and women to participate in agriculture by reducing the physical burden of traditional farming methods,” Kyari explained.
The country director of AGCOMS International, Chijioke Okoli, indicated that the assembly plant would provide Nigerian youths with hands-on experience, ensuring the long-term sustainability and effective use of the tractors.
“This aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to diversify Nigeria’s economy and promote agricultural mechanization.
The local assembly of these tractors will integrate advanced agricultural technologies into Nigeria’s farming practices,” Ibrahim noted.
