By Israel Adamu, Jos
Inorder to boost agricultural productivity as well as to support local farmers, the Executive Chairman of Jos South Local Government, Hon. Silas Patrick Dung on Tuesday officially flagged off the sales of subsidized fertilizer for the 2025 farming season.
A statement signed by Christy Pam Makut, the Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Jos South Local Government Council made available to reporters in Jos reads that the event, held at the council headquarters, was attended by key stakeholders, including the Commissioner of Transport, the Deputy Chairman of Jos South, the Leader of the Legislative Council and members, party officials, and farmers from across the local government.
Speaking at the occasion , Hon. Dung emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “We are flagging off the sales of this subsidized fertilizer to our people. This is not business as usual. His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, has placed a high premium on agriculture, and we are committed to ensuring that our farmers benefit directly.”
He urged beneficiaries to promptly pay for their allocations upon receiving their letters, warning against any diversion of the commodity.
The chairman encouraged farmers to take advantage of the initiative, stressing that the government’s goal was not just to provide inputs but to ensure food security and economic empowerment.
He also highlighted the state government’s efforts through the newly established Plateau Commodity Marketing Company (Placom), which buys farm produce directly from farmers at competitive prices, eliminating middlemen.
The statement added that the Chairman Dung issued a stern warning to those who might attempt to resell the subsidized fertilizer for profit, adding, “Government subsidies are meant to help the people.”
The Commissioner of Transport, Hon. Davou Jatau Gyang, who was present, commended the chairman for aligning with the governor’s agricultural vision and keeping his campaign promises.
Similarly, former TIC Chairman, Hon. Peter Vwang Dung who also spoke at the occasion urged farmers to use the fertilizer wisely and resist the temptation to sell it.