By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The Benue State Government has officially launched a Pilot Scheme of the Agricultural Mechanization Outgrower Programme in a bid to restore the state's reputation as Nigeria's primary food hub.
The event, which took place in Makurdi, saw the participation of key stakeholders in agriculture and agribusiness, including private sector partners and farmer representatives.
The initiative, a collaboration between the Bureau for Agricultural Development and Mechanization, Mass International and Equipment Nigeria Limited, and SABASPAC International Limited under the Benue Agribusiness and Mechanization Centre (BAMC), aims to benefit 10 farm clusters and approximately 300 farmers.
The farmers are expected to receive access to tractors, improved seeds, farm inputs, and structured markets.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Sam Ode, praised the farmers for their dedication and guaranteed government support.
He highlighted the affordability and accessibility of mechanization thanks to the involvement of reputable private partners like Alhaji Mohammed Yaro of Mass International.
In an effort to promote prosperity and self-sufficiency, the Governor handed over the first tractor key to the President of the Benue State Farmers Cooperative Federation.
Earlier, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Benjamin Ashaver, described the programme as a pivotal step towards transforming agriculture in Benue and creating opportunities for wealth, particularly for women and youth.
Meanwhile, plans for a tractor assembly and innovation hub in Benue by Mass International are expected to generate 5,000 jobs and empower numerous farmers.
SABASPAC International Limited's Outgrower Cluster Farm model aims to strengthen smallholder cooperatives, with the initial phase already involving 14 cooperatives representing over 360 farmers.
A revenue model has been designed to allow farmers to provide mechanized services commercially.
The Senior Cooperative Farmers Federation praised the government for its inclusive approach and called for subsidies on tractors and inputs to facilitate the transition to mechanized farming.
They emphasized the importance of Benue reclaiming its position as the nation's food basket.
