By Daniel Peres, Minna
The Niger State Government through the Ministry of Agriculture has announced acquisition of 20 additional tractors from the Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Company to boost agricultural output in the state.
In a statement issued to journalists in Minna, the Information Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Aishatu Aliyu Babadoko said this is aimed at enhancing the state’s Tractor Hiring Scheme and addressing the increasing demand for mechanized farming solutions among local farmers.
The Tractor Hiring Scheme, officially launched in April 2025, is a pivotal component of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s “Niger Can Feed the Nation” initiative.
According to her, the programme seeks to provide farmers across the state with affordable and accessible mechanized farming tools, thereby boosting food production and ensuring food security .
The recent procurement follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Ministry and Niger Foods Security Systems and Logistics Company for the lease of 50 tractors.
The Ministry she added made the tractors available and strategically deployed them to hiring centers across the state’s three geopolitical zones, inorder to facilitating easy access for farmers in various local government areas.
“In addition to expanding the fleet, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Communication Technology and Digital Economy, as well as Niger Foods Logistic Company Limited, to develop a mobile application.
“This app will enable farmers to book tractor services online and offline, streamlining the hiring process and minimizing the risk of fraud .
The statement noted that the state’s 2025 action plan also includes initiatives such as training youths on drone technology and other smart Agricultural practices, distributing agro-inputs to farmers, and establishing Agricultural equipment hiring centers.
The statement read in part: “These efforts are designed to enhance productivity, improve food security, and promote economic growth across Niger State .
“With these strategic investments and partnerships, Niger State continues to make significant strides toward transforming its Agricultural sector and achieving self-sufficiency in food production”