NAPRI Commissions New MF 375 Tractor, Flags Off 2026 Silage Production

The National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI), Ahmadu Bello University, Shika, Zaria, has officially commissioned a brand-new MF 375 Massey Ferguson tractor and flagged off its 2026 silage production exercise at its headquarters.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Director, Prof. M.R. Hassan, the Deputy Director, Dr. S.T. Mohammed, described the dual event as a major milestone toward modernizing livestock research and production in Nigeria. He noted that acquiring the tractor reflects the institute’s commitment to streamlining operations, reducing manual labor, and expanding NAPRI's capacity to cultivate its vast land effectively.

Addressing feed security, the Deputy Director highlighted that maintaining a steady supply of high-quality feed during the dry season remains one of the institute's greatest challenges. He emphasized that the annual silage-making initiative directly addresses seasonal feed deficits, ensuring NAPRI's livestock remain well-nourished and productive year-round.

Dr. Tanko further noted that the simultaneous tractor commissioning and silage launch underscore NAPRI's commitment to practical solutions. By combining agricultural mechanization with modern forage preservation techniques, the institute aims to boost overall livestock output.

Dr. Tanko expressed gratitude to the management of Ahmadu Bello University under Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adamu Ahmed, as well as the NAPRI Reform Committee, for their steadfast support in helping the institute fulfill its national mandate. He also commended the institute's researchers, farm managers, and technical staff for their dedication.

Highlighting the operational impact, the Head of the Forage Production Unit, Mal. Mohammed Abdul, explained that his unit is tasked with producing and conserving forage—including hay, silage, and processed crop residues—to support the institute's ruminant livestock. He thanked management for the new tractor, noting it would significantly boost capacity for high-quality silage and hay production.

Commissioning the tractor on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adamu Ahmed, Prof. Kwaga expressed delight at representing university leadership at the event. He noted that the NAPRI Reform Committee is currently overseeing plans to refurbish more than 10 additional tractors to further boost NAPRI's operations. He reaffirmed the committee's commitment to collaborating closely with NAPRI's management to drive ongoing institutional reforms.

Following the formal commissioning, the MF 375 tractor was immediately deployed to the field to commence the 2026 silage harvesting and conservation process.

The event was attended by key university and institute officials, including Prof. I.U. Bello; Prof. Junaid Kabir; Prof. Martha Otu, Assistant Director of Research; Dr. Yunusa Ishiaku, Assistant Director Extension and Linkages; Hajia Hauwa Hassan, Institute Finance Officer; Mal. Yakubu Ahmed Bello, Procurement Officer; Mal. Abdulwahab Haruna, Institute Accountant; Dr. S.A. Sabo, Programme Leader for Feeds and Nutrition Research; Dr. M.A. Gambo, Institute Librarian; and Dr. Wunti Zakariya, Head of the Animal Health Unit.