Zulum Calls for Service-Based Agricultural Mechanisation

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has called for a shift from the purchase of tractors to a modern, service-based system of agricultural mechanisation.

Zulum made the call at a High-Level National Policy Dialogue on Agricultural Mechanisation organised by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Abuja.

He identified low farm productivity, limited access to technology, inadequate investment and weak value chains as key challenges facing Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The governor said mechanisation should be provided as a service, allowing farmers to access land preparation, precision farming, irrigation and other technologies without having to buy costly equipment.

Zulum said Borno’s investment in agriculture is part of efforts to rebuild livelihoods and communities affected by insecurity and displacement.

He proposed greater use of digital technology, improved agricultural resources, infrastructure development and investment in modern farming enterprises.

The governor also called for more private-sector investment in machinery, irrigation, renewable energy, storage and processing facilities.

He said stronger support for young people and women in agriculture would help create jobs and improve value addition.

Zulum said Nigeria needs a productive, technology-driven and climate-resilient agricultural sector capable of improving food production and competing in global markets.