The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has distributed power tillers to farmer groups in Kaduna State, as part of efforts to promote mechanized agriculture, increase food production, and improve rural livelihoods.
During the distribution to 320 beneficiaries in Kaduna, N-HYPPADEC Managing Director Dr. Abubakar Yelwa said the initiative aimed to reduce the burden of manual farming and boost productivity among smallholder farmers in communities benefiting from the commission’s programs.
Yelwa commended the Kaduna State Government for adopting a cluster-based approach to distributing the equipment, noting that this strategy would ensure wider access and effective use of the machines.
He added that the commission would monitor beneficiaries’ performance and consider providing additional support, such as planters, sprayers, and other farming implements, to cooperative groups showing commitment and productivity.
According to him, N-HYPPADEC is expanding its agricultural efforts beyond equipment distribution to include youth-focused agricultural development, extension services, and value chain support initiatives.
The managing director disclosed that the commission is working with member states to identify unemployed youths for training and engagement as agricultural extension officers to support grassroots farmers.
“N-HYPPADEC does not impose projects on states. We work closely with state governments to identify their priority needs and design interventions that will have the greatest impact,” he said.
Yelwa also appreciated Kaduna State’s support, noting that the partnership has facilitated projects in agriculture, education, water supply, environmental protection, and community development.
The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. AbdulKadir Mu’azu, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, said agriculture remains vital for economic growth, job creation, and food security.
He described the power tiller distribution as a major investment in making farming communities more productive and resilient.
“The equipment will help farmers cultivate larger areas, reduce costs, and improve efficiency during the farming season,” Maiyaki stated.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Murtala Dabo, said the intervention was timely as farmers prepare for the new season.
He noted that access to modern equipment would boost productivity, increase incomes, and make agriculture more attractive to youth.
Dabo praised N-HYPPADEC for sustaining interventions in hydroelectric power communities, especially in agriculture, environmental management, and rural development.
Earlier, N-HYPPADEC Kaduna State Coordinator Alhaji Muhammad Bello highlighted some of the commission’s achievements, including solar-powered boreholes, classroom blocks, erosion control projects, educational programs, and environmental initiatives.
He stated that the power tillers are being distributed to organized farmer groups and cooperatives to strengthen mechanized farming and increase agricultural output.
Bello urged beneficiaries to properly utilize and maintain the equipment for long-term community benefits.
The Emir of Lere, Engr. Sulieman Umar, represented by the Sa’in Lere, Alhaji Muhammad Yusuf, praised the initiative as a laudable effort to empower farmers through power tiller distribution.
He emphasized that the intervention is timely and will enhance productivity, reduce manual farming burdens, and improve rural livelihoods across Kaduna.
He urged beneficiaries to use the machines responsibly, maintain them well, and share knowledge to promote mechanized farming practices within their communities.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude to N-HYPPADEC and Kaduna State, viewing the intervention as a significant boost to agriculture and rural economic development.
They pledged to use the machines responsibly and support efforts to achieve food security in the state.
