BY RESCUE MONITORING TEAM
Distinguished Senator Simon Bako Lalong, who served as the Executive Governor of Plateau State from 2015 to 2023, left a lasting impact on the agricultural sector in the state. His administration’s contributions to agriculture are still felt today, and below is a summary of some of his significant achievements:
Lalong implemented the Agro Processing, Productivity Enhancement, and Livelihood Improvement Support (APPEALS) project to boost agricultural productivity in the state. He also championed the Livestock and Ranching Initiatives (NLTP), popularly known as the Southern Livestock Transformation Program (SLTP). The initiative aimed at modernizing cattle rearing and reducing farmer-herder conflicts. Pilot schemes are in Kanam and Wase LGAs, and the current government of HE Barr CM Mutfwang acknowledges its impact. Lalong’s leadership in promoting controlled grazing and improved livestock productivity led to the creation of a Federal Ministry of Livestock Development by President Bola Tinubu.
Through the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Lalong empowered over 3,000 youths and women by engaging them in various agricultural enterprises with training and funding. Lalong also provided fertilizers, seeds, agrochemicals, and a 40% subsidy on farm machinery to support large-scale farming in the state.
His government rehabilitated rural roads under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), easing farm produce transportation. Additionally, irrigation schemes for dry-season farming, like the Dadin Kowa and Shen irrigation projects, were revitalized. Lalong partnered with private investors and international organizations to improve agricultural value chains and encouraged the establishment of agro-industries and processing centers to reduce post-harvest losses.
Lalong promoted climate-resilient farming techniques to combat desertification, launching initiatives like the ACReSAL project, which supported tree-planting to prevent soil erosion and ensure sustainable agriculture. His government employed 400 youths to the Department of Agricultural Extension Services and strengthened agricultural extension services by training extension officers.
Lalong’s administration facilitated the construction of the Faculty of Agriculture at Plateau State University, offering departments in Crop Science, Animal Science, and Agricultural Economics. He also collaborated with the University of Jos to establish a veterinary hospital. Plateau State became a recognized center of excellence for wheat and barley production, with the state engaging in the first wet-season wheat farming in Nigeria.
Under Lalong’s leadership, Plateau established the Farmer’s Bank, the first of its kind in Nigeria, which offers loans at an interest rate of 3%. His government facilitated training programs and grants for over 300 youths and women, known as ‘Fadama GUYs,’ in various agricultural enterprises.
Lalong supported the creation of commodity associations and agricultural cooperatives, which enhanced bilateral partnerships and promoted good agricultural practices in various sectors. His government secured farm inputs from the Federal Government for Plateau farmers and provided loans to various farmer associations through the CBN’s Anchor Borrowers Scheme. The Dadin Kowa Veterinary Clinic was constructed in 2023, and the main Jos Abattoir was renovated in 2022 at a cost of N30 million.
Lalong worked tirelessly to attract investors to Plateau State, resulting in the development of successful agro-allied companies, such as Arewa Cotton Farm.
Lalong’s policies led to a 35% increase in food production and security in Plateau State. The implementation of ranching and improved livestock management helped reduce conflicts between farmers and herders. Thousands of youths and women found employment opportunities in agribusiness, contributing to economic growth in rural areas. The construction of rural roads and revitalization of irrigation systems enhanced rural development and improved access to markets.
With his continued passion for agriculture, it is no surprise that upon arriving in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Lalong was appointed Chairman of the Committee on Agricultural Institutions and Colleges. He is also a member of the Committees on Agriculture and Rural Development and Livestock Development. Through his leadership, Plateau State continues to benefit from agricultural advancements, and he remains dedicated to ensuring the full potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector is realized.
