Agricultural Sciences: Techniques and Innovations Vol. 8

The increasing adoption of farm mechanisation in Nigeria, particularly tractorization, is reshaping agricultural production systems while generating complex socio-economic and institutional challenges. This study examines the interaction between mechanisation and land tenure systems, focusing on risks to land access, labour dynamics, and rural livelihoods. Using a qualitative narrative review of academic literature, policy documents, and institutional reports, the chapter analyses (i) the structure of land tenure systems in Nigeria, (ii) the status and drivers of agricultural mechanisation, and (iii) the socio-economic and political implications arising from their interaction. The findings indicate that while mechanisation enhances productivity and timeliness of operations, it contributes to land consolidation pressures, labour displacement, gender inequalities, and the marginalisation of smallholder farmers operating under customary tenure systems. The study concludes that without coordinated policy interventions, mechanisation may exacerbate inequality in land access and rural livelihoods. It recommends a gradual and regulated mechanisation strategy, reform of land tenure policies to integrate informal systems, and the promotion of alternative rural employment opportunities to ensure inclusive and sustainable agricultural transformation.