In a strategic move towards enhancing the productivity and capacity of agricultural fabricators in Oyo State, the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM) has collaborated with the Innovation Lab for Policy Leadership in Agriculture and Food Security (PiLAF) to refine a groundbreaking policy aimed at improving agricultural mechanization and food security in Oyo state, Nigeria. A strategic meeting was held today, October 8, 2024, at the University of Ibadan, where NCAM, led by the Executive Director, Engr. Dr. Kamal Abdulgafar Rasheed presented a revised version of the policy to PiLAF and other key stakeholders.

The meeting, which also featured representatives from the Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture and other critical stakeholders, had two primary objectives: to review the policy draft for agricultural fabricators in Oyo State and to discuss improvements in the fabricators’ working conditions and capabilities.

In his opening address, Engr. Dr Kamal highlighted the essential role of policy in driving agricultural development, emphasizing the significance of this collaboration as a model that could be adopted by other states across Nigeria. “Agricultural mechanization cannot thrive without robust policies in place. This initiative is a trailblazer, and NCAM is committed to partnering with state governments and international organizations to create impactful and sustainable policies,” he remarked.

The revised policy, enriched by NCAM’s expert committee, was praised for its forward-thinking provisions aimed at standardizing agricultural equipment, training fabricators, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Dr Kamal further urged all stakeholders to come on board to ensure the policy’s successful implementation, which promises to bolster food security and agricultural growth in Oyo State if implemented.

PiLAF, represented by Prof. Adegbenga Adekoya from the University of Ibadan, expressed its gratitude to NCAM for its valuable contributions. In the closing remarks, Dr. Benjamin Oyelami called on the Federal Government to facilitate NCAM’s presence in all states of the federation, ensuring that farmers and fabricators at every level have access to the NCAM-developed technologies and expertise.

This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards agricultural reform in Oyo State, with the policy expected to set a precedence for other States in Nigeria.

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