Agriculture remains a vital pillar of the Nigerian economy, employing millions and supporting national food security and rural livelihoods. Across the world, modern farm equipment leasing has emerged as an effective model for helping farmers access machinery without the heavy capital costs of outright ownership. In Nigeria, where mechanisation levels remain relatively low, such initiatives are increasingly seen as important tools for boosting productivity and encouraging large-scale farming.

Governor Eno has announced that the Akwa Ibom State Government will soon commission an Agricultural Equipment Leasing Company aimed at strengthening mechanised farming and improving agricultural output across the state.

The governor disclosed this while speaking with Government House correspondents shortly after inspecting progress of work at the facility located in Ekpri Nsukara, Uyo. He expressed satisfaction with the level of work already completed and noted that the contractor had assured the state government that the project would soon be ready for inauguration.

Governor Eno explained that the initiative is intended to encourage farmers to move towards larger-scale agricultural operations by giving them access to modern farm machinery at subsidised leasing rates. According to him, more than 25 tractors fitted with tracking devices, as well as other agricultural equipment, are being prepared to support the programme.

“The farming season is here again and we are putting everything in place for this project to function optimally,” the governor said, adding that the equipment will be leased to farmers across the state to improve productivity and efficiency in crop cultivation.

The governor also highlighted the state’s tree-crop development programme, noting that preparations have already been completed for the distribution of palm seedlings to farmers across Akwa Ibom as the rainy season approaches. Enumeration of farmers has been undertaken statewide, while nurseries for the seedlings have been established ahead of planting.

Reacting to the development, described the initiative as a positive step towards strengthening agricultural mechanisation in Nigeria. Dr Adekunle, who has worked with several Nigerian agriculture ministers over the years from Ruma to Fmr AfDB President,  Dr Adesina and has collaborated with institutions linked to mechanisation across Africa noted that state-level leasing initiatives can complement private sector systems already operating in the country.

“Mechanisation remains critical to the future of agriculture in Nigeria,” he said. “State initiatives such as this can help accelerate farmers’ access to equipment. At the same time, there are established systems already operating in the private sector, including what we have developed at NAMELNG. The important thing is ensuring strong corporate governance, efficiency and sustainability. Where there are opportunities for collaboration, partnerships between states and private operators can help scale results faster for farmers.”

Officials present during the inspection included the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Offiong Offor, the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof Eno Ibanga, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agric Business, Pastor Godwin Ukwat, among other government representatives.