In a bid to bolster agricultural mechanization and support farmers in Taraba State, Professor Nicholas Namessan Oliver, the Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Security, has pledged the timely distribution of tractors recently purchased by Governor Dr Agbu Kefas.
Addressing journalists on Monday in Jalingo, the state capital, Professor Oliver assured that the distribution process would adhere to the governor’s framework, ensuring inclusivity across all farming communities.
The state government, as confirmed by Oliver, is expecting the delivery of 200 large tractors and 750 mini tractors, slated to be dispersed among farmers across the state.
Additionally, various agricultural accessories such as threshers, mowers, ploughs, and harvesters, he said, have been procured to further support the farming community.
Governor Kefas’ commitment to agricultural mechanization aims to streamline farming operations, reduce labour, and enhance productivity within stipulated timelines, Professor Oliver emphasized.
Hiridus Richard Jen, Director of Engineering at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, echoed the commissioner’s sentiments, highlighting the training of ministry engineers to facilitate the coupling of tractors and oversee related tasks, ensuring the successful implementation of Kefas’ mechanization agenda.
Tanko Bobbo Andemi, Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) in the state, lauded the governor’s proactive approach to fulfilling promises, particularly regarding the arrival of the tractors.
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He urged the government to allocate tractors solely to genuine farmers to maximize their impact.
Andemi called upon farmers to reciprocate the governor’s goodwill by supporting his administration, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all Tarabans in advancing the state’s agricultural sector.
As anticipation mounts for the distribution of tractors, stakeholders remain optimistic about the transformative potential of Governor Kefas’ agricultural initiatives, underscoring the pivotal role of mechanization in driving sustainable development and food security in Taraba State.
