Attai Audu Jos
Plateau State Ministry of Agricuture and Rural Resources in conjunction with Plateau Agricultural Development Program (PADP) have officially launched 2024 Agric Input distribution of farm seeds to farming groups in the state aimed at generating bumper harvest this farming season across the Plateau state.
The benefitting groups were among others Rice farmers association, Wheat farmers association, Maize farmers association North central, Women in Agricuture, Youth for Agriculture in Plateau and others etc.
Speaking at the event which was launched at the Headquarters of PADP in Jos, Governor, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau state in his address stressed the importance of collaboration for successful farming on the Plateau this cropping season.
According to him, agriculture has strategic importance to the state’s economy.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting farmers with high-quality seeds to ensure sustainable agricultural growth and food security.
Represented by the Commissioner for Land and Surveys, Barr.Peter Nyam Gai, at the official flag-off of the high-quality seed distribution program to farmers across the state, the governor highlighted the significance of the carefully selected seeds for the farming season.
‘These seeds have been carefully chosen to ensure successful farming.
He said With the right seeds, proper watering, and adequate resources, our farmers can expect a fruitful harvest,” he said
Gov mutfwang expressed solidarity with Plateau farmers, promising necessary support for a successful farming season.
He also commended the Commissioner for Agriculture for expanding participation in the agricultural sector, emphasizing its commercial potential and urging responsible use of government-provided inputs.
“The way Plateau is progressing in agriculture, it will be a misfortune to even seek a government job because agriculture is commercialized and it’s going to put money in our pockets. We have never had it this good on the Plateau. The time to do more is now.” He emphasized.
Earlier ,Commissioner for Agriculture, Samson Ishaku Bugama, lauded the state government’s dedication to advancing agriculture, highlighting its pivotal role in economic development.
“Agriculture and farmers are the fulcrum from which we can develop our economy and that is why we are also mainstreaming gender in our interventions, ensuring both men and women are actively involved in agriculture.” He said
Hon. Bugama also announced initiatives such as tilling 8,000 hectares in crisis-affected communities and training 340 youths on precision agriculture at CSS Farms to enhance agricultural activities and empower the youth.
Similarly ,Mr. Ishiaku Samaila Jilemsam, Programme Manager of the Plateau Agricultural Development Programme (PADP),on his part stressed the critical role of high-quality seeds for farmers, cautioning against declining yields due to traditional seed-saving methods.
He encouraged farmers to purchase professionally produced seeds and outlined collaborations with organizations like Rosemary Seeds and East West Seeds.
Jilemsam also highlighted the distribution of maize, rice, wheat seeds, and upcoming potato seeds, alongside efforts to promote urban agriculture.
“We want our farmers to get used to buying seeds, not setting aside seeds. There are professionals such as Seeds and East West Seeds dedicated to producing these seeds. Using those kinds of seeds will give you the benefits you want.”he noted.
Also, CEO of Rosemary Seed Company, Mr. Nathaniel Y. Longmut, emphasized the critical role of high-quality seeds in crop production, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to provide seeds to local farmers.
He commended the state government for procuring high-yielding seed varieties, aiming to boost local farmers’ production capacity and elevate the state’s food production output.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Resources in collaboration with the Plateau Agricultural Development Programme (PADP), saw participation from various stakeholders including Farmers Associations, security agencies, and financial institutions in the state.
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