Niger State Governor Umaru Bago Strikes Groundbreaking Deals with Czech Republic: Agricultural Revolution and Light Railway on the Horizon

- November 29, 2023

By Hon. Commissioner of Industries, Trade and Investment; Aminu Suleiman Takuma and TakeMyGist Team

Governor Umaru Bago's productive journey to the Czech Republic had far-reaching effects on the development and growth of agriculture in Niger State. Recognizing agriculture as a pivotal sector, the governor took deliberate steps to explore partnerships and innovation, thereby boosting the state's agricultural prowess.

During his visit, Governor Bago engaged in fruitful discussions with top-tier agricultural companies, gaining valuable insights into modern farming practices. Notably, he connected with renowned companies specializing in the manufacture of farming machinery, and one such company was Knights a.s/Agroservis Salek. Upon touring their manufacturing plant for tractors in Prostejov, the governor, accompanied by the CEO and Board Chairman of Knights a.s., Dr. Karl Laryea (Ph.D.), eagerly inspected the state-of-the-art manufacturing processes for European standard tractors that caters specifically to the African Market.

Among the tractors examined was a specialized 50hp tractor uniquely designed for efficient rice farming. Equipped with various accessories like plows, rice threshers, three-disc plows, rotavators, and three-side tipping trailers, this tractor promised to revolutionize the rice farming industry in Niger State.

In a significant stride towards transforming the agricultural landscape of Niger State, an agreement was promptly signed between the Niger State Government and Knights a.s. of the Czech Republic. Under this agreement, 1,000 tractors and their accompanying accessories, including spare parts, would be supplied. Moreover, plans were set in motion to establish an assembly plant within the state's multi-facility industrial park. With the introduction of these tractors, the aim was to empower small and medium-scale farmers, enhancing their farming techniques and increasing their yields.

Additionally, Governor Bago seized the opportunity to pursue a promising transportation infrastructure project. He entered into an agreement to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for the construction of a light railway line connecting Minna to Abuja. This ambitious venture aimed to boost the ease of transportation for Niger State's agricultural produce, facilitating its swift access to domestic and international markets.

Governor Bago's overarching goal is to empower Niger State's agricultural sector, breathing new life into it and unlocking its immense potential. With these strides towards a #NewNiger, he envisions a transformed landscape where agriculture flourishes, overcoming current challenges and contributing to the state's economic development and prosperity. Indeed, the governor firmly believes that together, through unity expressed by the tagline #StrongerTogether, everyone can partake in the bountiful harvest that awaits the beautiful land of Niger State.