Shettima relaunches 375 tractors revamped by NASENI in Borno
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Sunday commissioned 375 refurbished tractors under the National Assets Restoration Programme of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to boost mechanized farming in Borno State.
The ceremony, held at the Borno State Agricultural Mechanization Agency in Maiduguri, marked the official launch of NASENI’s drive to revive abandoned public assets for productive use, particularly in agriculture.
Shettima described the initiative as a strategic response to Nigeria’s asset management challenge, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s goal of building a self-reliant and diversified economy. He praised NASENI’s innovation in restoring value and promoting sustainability.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum noted that the tractors were originally procured by Shettima during his tenure as Borno’s governor. He commended NASENI for restoring the machines at no cost to the state, calling it a major boost for local agriculture.
NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, said over 47,000 serviceable but idle public assets exist nationwide. He estimated that restoring them, rather than replacing them, could save Nigeria over ₦10 trillion.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, described the restoration programme as a key step toward achieving food security and praised NASENI for its forward-thinking leadership.
Programme Coordinator, Engr. Mohammed Yadudu, revealed that the restoration began in December 2024 with support from technical partner Machine and Equipment Corporation Africa (MECA), targeting disused assets with agricultural value.
Top dignitaries at the event included MD of NDPHC, Engr. Jennifer Adighije; FRCN DG, Dr. Mohammed Bulama; presidential aides, Borno State officials, and members of the National Assembly.
