Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has taken a decisive step to address the ongoing crisis by initiating a substantial farming project across three Local Government Areas within the state.
Recent reports from The PUNCH reveal a troubling situation in the Mangu Local Government Area, where a series of attacks by gunmen have resulted in the loss of over 300 lives and the displacement of more than 30,000 residents. The violence has attracted widespread condemnation from the Nigerian public.
In a significant move to alleviate the crisis, Governor Caleb Mutfwang inaugurated a farming intervention program at LigitLubang Community. Dr. Susan Bentu, the Managing Director of the Agricultural Services and Training Center (ASTC) in the state, highlighted that this initiative was directly ordered by the governor to assist the communities affected by attacks and farm destruction.
Partnering with the ASTC, the Plateau State Government has embarked on an ambitious project to cultivate over 900 hectares of land across three local government areas: Mangu, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom LGAs. The aim is to provide critical support to the affected communities, aiding them in rebuilding their lives and fostering optimism for the future.
By focusing on four communities in Riyom Local Government Area, one community in Barkin Ladi, and 14 communities in Mangu LGA, the intervention seeks to salvage the remaining farming season and prevent wastage of valuable farmland. This effort demonstrates the state government’s dedication to reviving the agricultural sector in conflict-affected regions.
Despite the advanced stage of the farming season, the government has directed the cultivation of late crops like beans and soybeans, with expectations of successful yields. This action underscores the administration’s commitment to revitalizing agriculture in the midst of adversity.
Acknowledging the crucial need for security, Olusola Bakare, the Deputy Commandant and Head of Agro Rangers, NSCDC Plateau State Command, assured farmers of full protection for their farmlands from further destruction.
The farming initiative has been warmly received by the communities, as represented by Mr. Dafwat Nanribet, the Chairman of Mwagavul Development Association, Bunga District. Having suffered the devastation of their farms earlier in the year, these communities are relieved and grateful for the government’s efforts to alleviate their hardships through this farming intervention.
Source: Punch
