Niger State government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TATA Group of Companies on emergency intervention in Agriculture.

The agreement was signed in Abuja and geared toward engaging the youth of the state in agriculture mechanisation service provision.

This is contained in a statement by Bologi Ibrahim, chief Press secretary to Gov. Umaru Bago, and made available to journalists on Saturday in Minna.

According to the statement, Mr Bago signed the pact on behalf of the state government while the country director, agriculture and construction equipment division, TATA Africa Services Nigeria, Engr. Chijoke Okoli, signed for the company.

It said the MoU indicated that TATA Group would provide assets, training and technology while the state government would provide support in the areas of asset acquisition, infrastructure, and commodity price stability.

The statement said that the pact is expected to bring about an increase in productivity, yield and earnings of the farmers.

“It will also lead to food security and sustainable job creation for the teaming youth in the state among others.

“Young graduates will serve as Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for the provision of plough, harrow, ridge and trailer services under Phase One, while planter, sprayer and harvester will come under Phase Two,” he said.

The statement said the governor expressed optimism that the MoU would come to fruition and achieve the desired results.

On his part, Mr Okoli assured that TATA, as an established multinational conglomerate, would ensure it delivers its part of the agreement.  

(NAN)