Plateau begins cultivation of 6,000 hectares of land in displaced communities

To support displaced persons in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has initiated a large-scale mechanized farming project on 6,000 hectares using the State’s Agricultural Services Training Centre and Marketing Ltd. (ASTC&M Ltd.). The program, launched in Mangu Local Government, aims to help displaced communities resume farming. Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Samson Bugama, emphasized the Governor’s dedication to addressing displacement and hunger, stating that the intervention will cover a minimum of 3,000 hectares and provide seeds for a substantial harvest. ASTC&M Ltd. Managing Director, Susan Bentu, detailed the four-week program, which will focus on maize, potatoes, and rice across different zones. She highlighted the comprehensive, cost-free support provided to farmers by the state government, covering areas like Jol, Kwi, Pushit, Longkat Irrigation, and Pandam, among others. The initiative also includes youth empowerment through cultivation at BARC farms. Bentu expressed confidence in the program’s potential to transform agriculture in the state, noting that last year’s intervention, which covered 900 hectares, saw great success. With a fleet of 300 high-capacity tractors and motivated personnel, ASTC&M Ltd. is prepared to deliver. To ensure crop safety, local self-help groups and the Agro-Rangers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have been mobilized. Bugama assured that the government will protect its investments in these communities. Source- Vanguard

OUR REVIEW

Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s mechanized farming project in Plateau State significantly impacts the agri-food value chain, enhancing food security and economic stability. By utilizing 6,000 hectares, this initiative facilitates the return of displaced persons to farming, addressing both displacement and hunger. Commissioner Samson Bugama’s emphasis on providing seeds for a substantial harvest highlights the project’s role in increasing agricultural productivity. ASTC&M Ltd.’s Managing Director, Susan Bentu, outlines a focused four-week program targeting maize, potatoes, and rice, ensuring tailored support across different zones. The program’s free, comprehensive support and focus on youth empowerment through cultivation at BARC farms demonstrate a commitment to long-term agricultural development and economic resilience. The intervention, which has already seen success on 900 hectares, leverages a fleet of 300 high-capacity tractors and dedicated personnel. The mobilization of local self-help groups and the Agro-Rangers of the NSCDC ensures crop safety, protecting government investments and boosting farmer confidence. This strategic initiative fosters informed decision-making, encourages investment, and promotes sustainable growth across the agri-food value chain, enhancing livelihoods and contributing to overall regional development.