The National Land Development Agency (NALDA) has expanded mechanized farming operations in Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, and Oyo States, in a strategic move to improve the nation’s agricultural sector.
The Executive Secretary of NALDA, Mr Paul Ikonne, in a statement on Monday, said the farm estates, strategically positioned in the six geopolitical zones, were witnessing the successful harvesting, bagging, and storage of rice and maize.
He said ongoing agricultural activities in the states were poised to make a significant impact on the nation’s grain supply, with a primary focus on enhancing the production of rice and maize.
According to him, this agricultural drive aligns with broader efforts to bolster food security and stimulate economic growth.
Ikonne said that increased grain production will increase poultry feed and other essential household goods.
He said in Bauchi, NALDA’s well-equipped farm estate at Galambi was redefining agricultural norms with a fully mechanized process.
The farm’s Coordinator, Jalaludeen Mu’azu, expressed confidence in its potential to boost production, anticipating a yield of over 150 metric tonnes of maize.
The initiative, he added had garnered interest from neighboring farming communities, highlighting its potential impact.
On his part, the Benue state coordinator, Asom William, emphasized that NALDA’s 150-hectare rice farm in Gboko stood as a testament to remarkable automation, employing combined harvesters, tractors, and cutting-edge machinery.
Asom said the success had attracted youth to agriculture and urged increased government investment for nationwide replication.
The Niger state coordinator, Illiya Manta expressed satisfaction with NALDA’s mechanized farming, unveiling a maize harvest with a potential exceeding 100 metric tonnes.
“Tunga Gana in Niger sees NALDA’s completely mechanized farm unveiling a maize harvest with a potential exceeding 100 metric tonnes.
“The farm, located in Paikoro LGA, not only showcases impressive mechanization, but also provides opportunities for women and young people,’’ he said.
The Head of Department of Engineering at NALDA, Mr Owolabi Olusegun stressed the need for increased government support, praising the current level of mechanization.
He affirmed that Nigeria had the capability to replicate such success nationwide, signaling a promising future for the country’s agricultural landscape.
