The federal government has signed a $70 million contract with AGCOMS International Trading Limited, the Nigerian partner of agricultural equipment giant John Deere, to supply 2,000 tractors and farming implements under a nationwide mechanization initiative.
Led by the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), this project follows a 2023 agreement with John Deere to deploy 10,000 tractors over five years. The first batch, including plows, harrows, ridgers, and 100 combined harvesters, is expected to arrive before the wet planting season.
Farmers will access the equipment at designated centers in Abuja and Lagos, with installment payment options available. To enhance domestic capacity, the deal includes plans for a local assembly plant near Nigerian ports, creating jobs, improving technical skills, and advancing modern farming techniques.
NADF Executive Secretary Mohammed Abu Ibrahim emphasized the initiative’s alignment with the government’s push for economic diversification through mechanized agriculture. “The local assembly of these tractors will revolutionize farming practices in Nigeria,” he stated.
To prevent delays, NADF is working with the Nigerian Ports Authority to streamline import logistics. The agreement also includes training for local technicians and ongoing technical support.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, described the program as vital for revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector, strengthening food security, and driving economic growth.
