The Benue State Government has partnered with Mass International & Equipment Limited and SABASPAC to boost agricultural productivity through mechanised farming.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, flagged off the agricultural mechanisation outgrower programme on Wednesday in Makurdi. He said the initiative was designed to restore Benue’s status as the Food Basket of the Nation by enhancing food sufficiency and empowering farmers.
Alia explained that the scheme would enable farmers’ cooperatives to own tractors and other equipment, while also receiving inputs, improved seedlings, technical support, and guaranteed markets for their produce. He added that farmers’ requests for government-subsidised tractors would be considered.
“For this pilot phase, 10 clusters of about 300 farmers will each be empowered with one tractor,” he said. “The programme aims to improve agricultural productivity, commercialise farming, and promote economic independence among smallholder farmers.”
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Benjamin Ashaver, described the initiative as a practical step to make agriculture more productive. He assured that the government would continue to champion innovations that empower youth and women in the sector.
The Director-General of the Bureau for Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation, Benita Shuluwa, said the scheme would be implemented through the Benue Agribusiness and Mechanisation Centre (BAMC). She noted that IDPs were also being supported with commercial farmlands to promote entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Mrs. Dooshima Zaki, Acting Director-General of the Bureau for Agricultural Development and Mechanisation, said the programme would expand farmers’ access to modern equipment.
President of Mass International & Equipment Limited, Muhammed Yaro, said the partnership reflected the company’s commitment to supporting humanity, adding that the equipment provided was among the best in the global market.
President of the Benue Farmers Cooperative Societies Federation, Elias Iorwuese, commended the governor for prioritising agriculture and appealed for subsidies on tractors. He assured that farmers would reciprocate the government’s efforts with support for its policies.
