Abuja: First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu has launched a new initiative aimed at training 5,000 women and youths in the domains of agricultural mechanisation, digital farming, equipment operation, maintenance, and agribusiness. The launch, represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, took place during a National Colloquium on the Role of Women and Youth in Advancing Agricultural Mechanisation in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the programme is organised by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in collaboration with Mela-Pat Chiyoma Ltd. It is designed as a three-year initiative to provide beneficiaries with practical skills in mechanisation and agribusiness. The First Lady highlighted that this effort in agricultural mechanisation is expected to increase productivity, lessen the physical demands of farming, and make agriculture an appealing career path for young Nigerians.
Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasised the importance of mechanisation in reducing drudgery and improving productivity in farming. He pointed out that modern machinery allows farmers to complete tasks more efficiently compared to traditional methods, creating employment opportunities for various roles such as operators, technicians, and equipment managers.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, noted the timeliness of this initiative, indicating that transforming agriculture is crucial for Nigeria’s future. Kalu, represented by Bello Ka’oje, Chairman of the House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services, reiterated the National Assembly’s support for policies that promote food security and empower women and youth.
Mrs Patricia Stan-Dioka, Managing Director of Mela-Chiyoma Pat Ltd., called for the mechanisation training to include a wide range of technical skills beyond just tractor operation. She also mentioned plans for a tractor grant programme to increase access to machinery, helping beneficiaries apply their skills in practical settings. Stan-Dioka praised the Lagos State Government for its support in local tractor assembly and comprehensive technical training initiatives.