By Isreal Adamu, Jos
To revamp Plateau State’s agricultural sector and address poverty, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State commissioned 20 tractors for farming communities across the state on Thursday. This initiative is part of his administration’s efforts to achieve food security and economic empowerment.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, which followed the Plateau State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes Project (ACReSAL) Day and the Community Revolving Fund (CRF) disbursement at the New Government House in Rayfield, Jos, Governor Mutfwang assured that the tractors would be effectively used for the benefit of the state and its people.
He revealed that, through the Plateau Agricultural Development Programme, the government plans to secure over 200 tractors to further boost agricultural activities, ensuring food security and sovereignty across the state.
A statement signed by Bere Gyang, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, announced that in addition to the tractor commissioning, Governor Mutfwang presented a $250,000 Community Revolving Fund (CRF) cheque to ten communities. This initiative, supported by the World Bank in collaboration with the Plateau State Government under ACReSAL, aims to provide financial empowerment to rural communities.
Each of the ten communities received $25,000, with the funds expected to be repaid after a specified period to empower other communities in the state. The beneficiary communities include Guratop, Kerang, Zamko, Ampang West, Dinting, Jimin, Kaler, Plateau Club/Bingham, Pishe, Yashi, and Wereh.
Addressing the communities, the Governor encouraged them to utilize the funds optimally, stressing that the initiative is designed to create a revolving financial opportunity for broader community development.
“I want to thank the World Bank for the initiatives you’ve introduced on the Plateau. Let me assure you that, by the grace of God, none of these projects will fail. We are committed to ensuring that the funds and equipment are judiciously used to uplift our people,” the Governor stated.
He continued, “Beyond implementing projects, our focus is to ensure that these investments lift our people out of poverty. The bottom line is to improve the standard of living by reducing poverty.”
Governor Mutfwang urged Plateau State citizens to unite in supporting government initiatives and cautioned against divisive tendencies that hinder progress. He also emphasized the need for every available piece of land, especially in schools, to be cultivated during the upcoming farming season.
Dr. Ndiame Diop, the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, congratulated the ten beneficiary communities and highlighted the importance of addressing climate change’s adverse effects on agriculture.
“Desertification and climate change pose serious threats to agriculture, a key livelihood for Plateau residents. Through ACReSAL, we aim to help vulnerable communities adapt to climate impacts while improving their livelihoods. This initiative complements a comprehensive framework for land and water management through a 10-year watershed plan,” Dr. Diop stated.
He commended Governor Mutfwang and his team for their commitment to the project’s success and urged the communities to use the funds responsibly for their collective benefit.
Other key figures, including the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, ACReSAL Task Team Leader Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, Commissioner of Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Hon. Peter Kannang Gwom, and Plateau ACReSAL Coordinator Mr. Garba Gowon Gonkol, praised Governor Mutfwang for fostering a conducive environment for meaningful partnerships that directly benefit the people of Plateau State.
