The Equipment Leasing Registration Authority (ELRA) has signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Heifer Nigeria Ltd/GTE to expand access to agricultural machinery for smallholder farmers through structured equipment leasing solutions. 

Running from August 15, 2026, to August 14, 2028, the partnership aims to enhance food security, raise rural incomes, and modernise agricultural value chains under Heifer Nigeria’s flagship Naija Unlock Programme.

Initial rollout will target agricultural producers and cooperatives across Benue, Nasarawa, Ogun, and Edo states. 

Describing the initiative as a major step toward advancing agricultural finance, ELRA Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Donald Wokoma, emphasised that leasing overcomes capital barriers for farmers: 

“This initiative will allow farmers and agribusinesses to access modern machinery without the high upfront costs of outright purchase, improving productivity, efficiency, and business growth.” 

Wokoma added that the partnership creates structured asset-acquisition pathways for smallholders, cooperatives, women, and young agripreneurs across the country.

Highlighting the operational model, Heifer Nigeria Country Director, Lekan Tobe, stated that the collaboration introduces lease-to-own structures to help smallholders acquire tractors, solar-powered irrigation systems, processing tools, and cold-chain infrastructure: 

“Through this partnership with ELRA, we are introducing innovative leasing models that will enable farmers, cooperatives, women, and youth to acquire the equipment they need to increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and build resilient agribusinesses.” 

The two-year agreement incorporates capacity-building workshops covering agribusiness management, equipment maintenance, asset tracking, and climate-smart agricultural techniques to ensure long-term operational sustainability.

Source: Radio Nigeria
Image Credit: Business Day