Benue State, renowned as Nigeria’s Food Basket, has introduced a groundbreaking program aimed at revolutionizing agricultural productivity. This initiative is designed to alleviate the challenges faced by farmers, enhance their earnings, and expand employment opportunities within the agricultural sector. It marks a pivotal moment that promises to unlock the full agricultural potential of the state.
On September 24, 2025, the Agricultural Mechanization Outgrower Programme was officially launched by Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, with his Deputy, Sam Ode, standing in on his behalf. This transformative project is set to positively impact the lives of farmers, modernize farming practices, and elevate the overall economic wellbeing of rural communities throughout Benue.
The state government has partnered with Mass International & Equipment Limited and SABASPAC to spearhead this mechanization drive, aiming to introduce advanced farming technologies and methods to local farmers.
The pilot phase involves 10 farmer clusters, encompassing a total of 300 smallholder farmers. Each cluster will be equipped with a brand-new tractor and state-of-the-art agricultural machinery, facilitating mechanized farming that significantly boosts productivity. This effort is a strategic move by the government to reinforce Benue’s reputation as Nigeria’s premier food-producing region, supported by a subsidized mechanization scheme.
To ensure optimal use of the equipment and maximize output, extension officers will be deployed to work closely with the farmers, providing guidance, technical assistance, and monitoring accountability.
Governor Alia emphasized, “This pilot scheme, involving 10 clusters and approximately 300 farmers, is designed to integrate participants into a well-structured agricultural value chain. The program aims to enhance productivity through mechanization, supply of quality inputs, expert technical support, and guaranteed market access for produce.”
He further explained that the initiative’s core goals are to strengthen food security, commercialize agriculture within the state, and foster economic self-reliance among smallholder farmers.
Participants in the program will receive comprehensive support, including modern farming implements, improved seedlings, agrochemicals, and access to skilled extension agents, technicians, and tractor operators-elements essential for contemporary farming success.
Mrs. Dooshima Zaki, Acting Director General of the Bureau of Agricultural Development and Mechanization, highlighted that this program will provide farmers with vital machinery, training, and ongoing technical support to maximize their yields.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Benjamin Ashaver, described the initiative as a practical and impactful step toward increasing agricultural productivity. He noted that it aligns with the government’s broader agenda to empower youth and women, ensuring inclusive growth across the sector.
Ms. Benita Shuluwa, Director-General of the Bureau for Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation, added, “Governor Alia’s administration has actively engaged in various agricultural projects, including land clearing in collaboration with federal agencies like the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to promote commercial farming.”
She also mentioned the government’s efforts to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) by providing commercial farmland, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting economic independence among vulnerable groups.
“Through this initiative, smallholder farmer clusters will have the opportunity to acquire agricultural machinery via flexible payment plans, encouraging mechanized farming and boosting productivity,” Shuluwa explained. “Additionally, we will facilitate access to improved seeds, agrochemicals, and modern farming techniques to help farmers achieve optimal results.”
Both Alhaji Muhammed Yaro, President of Mass International & Equipment Limited, and Mr. Elias Iorwuese, President of the Benue Farmers Cooperative Societies Federation, called on the state government to continue subsidizing tractors and equipment to further support and motivate local farmers.
Expressing his gratitude, Iorwuese praised Governor Alia’s commitment to transforming agriculture in Benue and pledged unwavering support for the governor’s re-election campaign in 2027.
For the farmers benefiting from this program, the initiative represents a timely and much-needed relief from labor-intensive farming, opening doors to commercial-scale agriculture and improved livelihoods.
Ultimately, the Agricultural Mechanization Outgrower Programme stands as a visionary strategy to secure food availability, generate employment, and create wealth for the people of Benue. Governor Alia’s leadership is propelling agricultural development to new heights, fostering economic growth, reducing poverty, and revitalizing the rural economy.
Bridget Tikyaa
Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Communications Strategy
