In a significant move to bolster domestic food production and align with national food security goals, the Niger State government has received a vital injection of resources. The state took delivery of 2,000 pieces of agricultural equipment today, marking a major step forward in its agricultural development plans.
This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Niger State government and Origin Group, a diversified agriculture value chain firm. Origin Group, leveraging their Total Agricultural Support Program (TASP), is partnering with the Brazilian agricultural specialist Campo Company to deliver this specialized agro-support program.
“The arrival of this equipment signifies a new era for agriculture in Niger State,” declared Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago. “We are resolute in our commitment to fostering an agricultural revolution within our state. This equipment will empower our farmers, enhance yields, and propel Niger State towards becoming a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria.”
The equipment tranche includes 500 high-capacity tractors, 500 harvesters of varying capabilities, and a further 1,000 units of essential agricultural and irrigation equipment, along with farm implements. This comprehensive package aims to address key challenges faced by Niger’s agricultural sector.
“By equipping our farmers with modern machinery, we can significantly reduce the drudgery associated with manual labor,” highlighted Bologi Ibrahim, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor. “This initiative has the potential to slash post-harvest losses by 50%, directly translating into increased revenue for our farmers.”
The program also encompasses the development of 50,000 hectares of fully irrigated food production hubs within Niger State. This long-term vision is expected to create significant employment opportunities and contribute to wealth creation for the state’s population.
The arrival of the agricultural equipment is a positive development for Niger State’s agricultural sector. With proper training and infrastructure development, this initiative has the potential to significantly enhance food production, improve food security, and empower local farmers.
