ibironkeeniola 
The Plateau State arm of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) has expressed willingness to key into the government-induced mechanized agricultural initiative.
The association, via its Chairman, Bitrus Joshua, stated that the farmers were ready to take part in the scheme.
According to him, the state government’s distribution of 100 tractors and farm inputs was responsible for the farmers’ recent show of interest.
While addressing newsmen on the level of progress attained as regards mechanized farming in the state, he said: “Farmers are now using tractors instead of hoes and other crude implements in their farms and with this, very soon we might control the market”
He added that the youths of the state were now actively involved in mechanized farming, which has so far, proved to be lucrative.
Bitrus also attributed the ease of farming in the state to the recent loan accessibility and extension services provided by the CBN.
He called on rice consumers to exercise patience as efforts are currently being geared towards the improvement of the commodity’s value chains, as farmers utilize more machines.
Meanwhile, plans have been concluded by the state government to distribute more tractors to farmers, in order to foster the paradigm shift from subsistence to mechanized farming.
SOURCE: AGRONIGERIA