Nigeria poised for transformative leap in agricultural mechanization- Ekesiobi

Nigeria is gearing up for a multi-million-dollar mechanization investment project aimed at revolutionizing its agricultural sector and enhancing food security nationwide. 

During a press briefing in Abuja, Mr. Don Ekesiobi, Chairman of Eurobase Consult Group, unveiled this groundbreaking initiative, detailing plans to collaborate with reputable companies from around the globe, including the USA, Brazil, South Africa, Israel, China, India, Poland, and Sao Paulo.

"These companies, selected for their global impact and expertise, are poised to lead the mechanization drive in Nigeria," stated Ekesiobi. "With a proven track record in successful agricultural projects worldwide, they aim to replicate their multi-billion-dollar agribusiness models in Nigeria, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security."

Ekesiobi stressed the pivotal role of both the government and the private sector in fostering agricultural development, advocating for conducive business environments and subsidies to ensure food affordability, in line with President Bola Tinubu's agenda.

While addressing the issue of insecurity, Ekesiobi urged the government to prioritize security measures essential for attracting foreign investment and driving agricultural progress. He also called for the removal of bottlenecks in trade facilitation processes to create an enabling environment for agricultural development.

According to him “The project includes plans to manufacture agricultural equipment locally, covering land preparation, planting, harvesting, processing, and packaging, with the aim of empowering farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices nationwide”.

Ekesiobi extended an invitation to a special exhibition and technology showcase scheduled for the 16th and 17th of next month at the NAF conference in Abuja, aimed at spotlighting cutting-edge solutions and fostering innovation in agricultural mechanization.

Abubakar Bamai Musa, president of Nigeria Young Farmers Network, hailed the initiative as a significant opportunity for young people to contribute to the agricultural ecosystem, emphasizing the role of innovation and technology in driving success.

Speaking Hariratu Ladi Yakubu, representative Nigerian Women for Agricultural Progress, lauded the initiative as a vital opportunity for women to participate actively in agriculture and contribute to Nigeria's food sufficiency goals. She emphasized the importance of providing women with access to modern farming technologies and equipment to enhance productivity and address food shortages effectively.