Jigawa State is taking bold steps to transform its agricultural sector as Governor Malam Umar Namadi flags off the departure of 30 engineering graduates to China for specialized training in agricultural mechanization.
Speaking at the farewell event at the Government House, Dutse, Governor Namadi described the initiative as a historic moment for the state.
Malam Namadi explained that the graduate was selected for their expertise in agricultural engineering; they will undergo intensive training in the maintenance and operation of modern farm machinery, a key component of the state’s ambitious plan to modernize agriculture and boost productivity.
He reaffirmed that agriculture as the backbone of Jigawa’s economy and emphasized his administration’s commitment to improving efficiency, reducing the burden of manual labour, and providing modern tools for farmers.
The governor disclosed that 60 agricultural service centres have been established across the state to make farm machinery accessible to all farmers. Each centre will be managed by the returning technicians, ensuring the equipment remains in optimal condition. He added that a Managing Director has been appointed to oversee the Jigawa State Farm Mechanization Program, which has been registered as an independent entity under the Corporate Affairs Commission.
The state government has already secured 300 tractors, 60 combine harvesters, and other essential farm implements such as disc ploughs, sprayers, and ridgers. Governor Namadi revealed that 65 percent of the payment for these machines has been completed, with the remaining balance expected to be settled by the end of next month. Deliveries are anticipated to begin by late December or early January next year.
“These machines will be available to farmers at subsidized rates,” the governor announced. “Our goal is to make modern farming tools accessible to all farmers. All they need to do is visit any of the service centers, request a tractor, and it will be delivered to their farms for use. This will enhance productivity and reduce the drudgery of manual labor.”
The technicians heading to China are expected to return as master technicians who will play a crucial role in the state’s agricultural modernization drive. “This training is critical to the success of our program,” the governor said. “These young men and women are the lifeline of our vision for a modern agricultural sector. They will spend six to eight weeks in China acquiring the knowledge required to maintain and operate these machines efficiently.”
Governor Namadi urged the technicians to make the most of the opportunity, describing it as a rare privilege. “You are not just technicians; you are pioneers in creating a new future for Jigawa State’s agriculture. Represent our state and country with pride and return as agents of transformation,” he said.
The training is part of a broader capacity-building initiative under the Jigawa Agricultural Mechanization Support System (JAMSS), which aims to train 2,726 individuals in various specializations, including tractor operation, fleet management, and service center management.
According to Governor Namadi the program is expected to create approximately 8,000 indirect jobs and service a minimum of 180,000 hectares annually.
“This initiative is about more than agriculture; it is about building a legacy,” Governor Namadi stated. “By modernizing agriculture, we are securing the future of Jigawa State and creating opportunities for generations to come.”
The governor expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Agriculture and its technical team for their dedication to the success of the program. He also assured the technicians of his support, promising to visit them in China during their training to ensure its quality and effectiveness.
The Jigawa Agricultural Mechanization Program is expected to revolutionize farming practices in the state, positioning Jigawa as a leader in agricultural innovation in Nigeria while improving livelihoods and ensuring food security.
