By Fatima Muraina
Farmers’ groups in Ondo State have reacted to the Federal Government’s rollout of 2,000 tractors to boost agricultural production nationwide, describing the initiative as commendable but burdened by structural and implementation concerns.
The Chairman of the Ondo State Agricultural Commodities Association (OSACA), Chief Abiodun Adejo, said the gesture represents a step in the right direction, but argued that 2,000 tractors are grossly inadequate for a country the size of Nigeria.
He noted that distributing the tractors across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, would have limited impact if not properly structured.
According to him, the application structure appears to favour wealthy farmers, making it difficult for low-income farmers to access the tractors.
While commending the Federal Government for taking steps to support agriculture, Adejo urged state governments, particularly in the South, to actively engage with the process to ensure their farmers are not sidelined.
He added that many farmers in Ondo State have already applied through the Bank of Agriculture and remain hopeful of benefiting from the scheme.
Similarly, the Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) and President of the Ondo State Farmers Congress, Farmer Abayomi Monilari, expressed skepticism over the transparency and fairness of the distribution process.
“They have a beautiful idea, but it is not meant for the farmers.
“If care is not taken, the tractors will be given to political allies or the highest bidders,” Monilari said.
He criticised the conditions attached to accessing the tractors, questioning how many genuine farmers or farmers’ groups could realistically meet the requirements within the stipulated timeframe.
Monilari advocated for the tractors to be allocated directly to farmers’ cooperatives and associations rather than individuals or business interests.
“If farmers’ groups are in control, they will manage the tractors among themselves and reduce costs. But if business people take over, they will become taskmasters and place unnecessary burdens on farmers,” he said.
He further argued that 2,000 tractors are insufficient to meet national demand, noting that ideally, each local government area should have at least five tractors if the government is serious about transforming agriculture.
“We still have a long way to go. Before now, there were no tractors. If we are truly serious about farming and food security, we must do more,” he added.
Monilari advised the Federal Government to learn from past interventions where tractors were allegedly distributed to non-farmers and political associates, resulting in minimal impact on food production.
“What I advise is that a certain percentage of the tractors should be given directly to farmers’ groups who will manage them collectively for the benefit of their members,” he said.
The farmers’ leaders agreed that while the tractor initiative signals positive intent, its success will depend on equitable distribution, inclusive eligibility criteria and the establishment of sustainable maintenance structures to ensure long-term impact on agricultural productivity.