FARMERS LACK FUNDS TO ACCESS MECHANISATION, RICE MILLERS LAMENT

Rice millers and processors have raised alarm over the inability of many farmers to access mechanisation equipment due to high costs and limited financing options, hindering productivity and the overall performance of the rice value chain.

At a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, representatives of rice millers noted that the high cost of tractors, harvesters, and other machinery, coupled with stringent loan requirements, has left smallholder farmers reliant on manual labour, resulting in lower yields and quality issues. “Farmers want to mechanise but lack the funds. This is affecting the entire sector,” a miller said.

The group called on the government and financial institutions to provide affordable credit, subsidies, and equipment leasing schemes to make mechanisation more accessible.

The development highlights ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s agriculture sector despite various intervention programmes. Experts believe that addressing financing gaps could significantly boost rice production and reduce import dependence.