The partnership which is being facilitated by AFAN is to train Nigerian farmers and technicians in order to promote agriculture in the area of handling and maintenance of agricultural equipment.

This disclosure was made by the representative of NCTA, and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of SSA Farm Technologies, Inc., Mr Kofi Amoabin during a parley with AFAN, Lagos Chapter in YABATECH, Lagos.

His words: “The University will design a course in which the All Farmers Association of Nigeria can do. Also, they might have the opportunity to travel to United States of America to get a diploma or a degree.”

He further added that the institution has got the permission from the USA Department of Education, to design programmes for students and farmers. With this development, Amoabin declared that the transfer of skill to Nigeria will make Agriculture better.

In an exclusive chat with AgroNigeria, Amoabin noted that “before Agriculture can be successful, it needs technicians to store and maintain equipment to prevent breakdown.”

Amoabin identified post-harvest losses as a major problem in the country. “Nigeria produces 9 million metric tons of maize and lost one million metric tons, at $200 per ton, thereby depriving farmers from making $200 million.”

He said farmers need training and equipment to curb post harvest losses. He also added that the company is bringing down equipment to Nigeria which include mechanical dryers.

According to the World Bank, investment in agriculture yields five times more than investment in other areas. Amoabin noted that Africa has abandoned agriculture for a long time to her own detriment. He therefore advised Nigeria to “embrace agriculture and support the peasant farmers.”

While admonishing Africa, especially Nigerians youths, to make good opportunity of the partnership, Amoabin called on governments at all levels to invest more on equipment, which he says will “help her reduce its imports and thereby balance her trade.”