The Benue State Government has launched a Pilot Scheme of the Agricultural Mechanization Outgrower Programme as part of efforts to restore the state’s reputation as Nigeria’s primary food hub.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his Deputy, Barr. Sam Ode, commended the farmers for their dedication and assured them of the government’s continued support.
He highlighted the affordability and accessibility of mechanization due to the involvement of reputable private partners like Alhaji Mohammed Yaro of Mass International.
The Governor handed over the first tractor key to the President of the Benue State Farmers Cooperative Federation in an effort to promote prosperity and self-sufficiency.
The initiative, which is a collaboration between the Bureau for Agricultural Development and Mechanization, Mass International and Equipment Nigeria Limited, and SABASPAC International Limited under the Benue Agribusiness and Mechanization Centre (BAMC), aims to benefit 10 farm clusters and approximately 300 farmers.
Registered farmers in Benue State are expected to receive access to tractors, improved seeds, farm inputs, and structured markets.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Benjamin Ashaver, described the programme as a ”pivotal step towards transforming agriculture in Benue and creating opportunities for wealth, particularly for women and youth.”
He said plans for a tractor assembly and innovation hub in Benue by Mass International are expected to generate 5,000 jobs and empower numerous farmers.
The Director General of the Bureau of Entrepreneurship & Wealth Creation in Benue State, Ms. Benita Shuluwa, noted that “her office had been proactive in providing support to farmers, including subsidized fertilizer, agricultural inputs, and the establishment of a tractor mechanization centre “
She stated that commercial farmlands had also been created for IDPs to promote entrepreneurship and economic independence.
She said; “This programme aims to provide farmers with access to agricultural equipment, inputs, modern best practices, and technical support to boost productivity and promote economic independence.”
Shuluwa explained that the ultimate goal of the program is to ensure Benue farmers receive true value for their agricultural products and contribute to food security in Nigeria.
She said future phases of the programme will expand to include all farmer clusters in Benue State, and encouraged farmer groups to register and take advantage of the support and guidance offered by government agencies and partners.
The Ag. Director General, Bureau of Agricultural Development and Mechanization (BNARDA), Mrs. Dooshima Zaki, described the programne as a critical component of modern farming as it enables farmers to increase productivity, reduce drudgery, and improve efficiency.
Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the event, Alhaji Mohammad Yaro, the Managing Director and Chairman of Mass International & Equipment Nigeria Limited, reiterated the company’s mission to support humanity.
Mohammad Yaro highlighted their focus on Benue State, known as the nation’s Food Basket, to elevate agricultural standards, which is the backbone of the state.
The Benue Agribusiness & Mechanization Centre serves as a cornerstone for mechanization and technology transfer, creating opportunities for youth employment and boosting the agricultural sector in Benue State.
Voice of Nigeria reports that the event, which took place in Makurdi, saw the participation of key stakeholders in agriculture and agribusiness, including private sector partners and farmer representatives.