John Deere, a United States-based company, has announced its commitment to establishing a tractor assembly plant in Nigeria.
This significant development in foreign investment was revealed during a meeting between Vice President Kashim Shettima and top officials from John Deere, led by its Vice President on Production Systems, Mr. Jason Brantley.
The company’s interest in Nigeria’s agricultural sector aligns with Nigeria’s efforts to transform agriculture as a means to address insecurity and enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
Vice President Shettima emphasised the importance of mechanisation for achieving self-sufficiency in food production.
He also highlighted the key elements for success in the agricultural sector: certified seeds, mechanisation, fertiliser provision, and agricultural extension services.
Vice President Shettima discussed the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones project, emphasising its role in providing the infrastructure and framework for the private sector to add value to Nigeria’s agricultural produce.
He assured investors that Nigeria is open to partnerships and discussions to expedite the process.
Mr. Brantley of John Deere outlined the company’s proposed investment in Nigeria, with a focus on creating an organised approach to tractor-clearing services for smallholder farmers throughout the country.
He emphasised that the project would require no government investment, with credit guarantees aimed at making credit accessible at an affordable rate for interested individuals or groups.
The meeting, facilitated by Mr. John Coumantaros, Chairman of Flour Mills of Nigeria, was attended by the Minister of Agriculture, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, the Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Lot Egopija, and other key stakeholders.
This move by John Deere holds the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural development and food security.
Source: PUNCH