Benue farmers get tractors, God laughs

The Benue State Government launched the Agricultural Mechanisation Outgrower Programme in Makurdi, advancing plans to modernise farming and raise farmer incomes. At the ceremony, cooperative groups received new tractors and other equipment as the administration of Governor Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Sam Ode, set a course for wider mechanised production among smallholders. The government promised subsidies for mechanization, with State Commissioner for Agriculture Dr. Benjamin Ashaver guiding the effort and stating that the pilot will serve ten clusters of more than 300 farmers with tools and inputs. Ashaver said the approach targets food security, job creation, and wealth for residents, while partners earned thanks for helping empower producers. Officials Benita Shuluwa and Dooshima Zaki described the project as a major step for rural livelihoods and modern practices, noting that extension agents will oversee the responsible use of the machinery and that farmers will gain access to training and technical support.