Mechanization Vital for Nigeria's Food Security, Says Expert

Okoli Chijiok, the Chief Executive Officer of AGCOM, stated that mechanization is essential for driving Nigeria's food security. In a statement issued on Tuesday, he expressed support for President Bola Tinubu's agricultural reform agenda.

Chijiok described mechanization as a key driver for economic growth and rural development, emphasizing the need to expand access to modern farming equipment. The Federal Government's mechanization program achieved a significant milestone in January with a $70 million agreement from the National Agricultural Development Fund to supply 2,000 tractors and other mechanized farming equipment, including 100 combine harvesters.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance food production and strengthen the agricultural value chain. Chijiok noted that the program goes beyond equipment procurement, aiming to promote technology transfer and create jobs.

He warned that the success of the program depends on the availability of equipment and sustainable outcomes, which require reliable maintenance and training systems.