By Salifu Faridat
The Plateau State government-owned Agricultural Services, Training Centre, and Marketing Ltd (ASTC) have joined forces with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps’ (NSCDC) Agro Rangers to cultivate 900 hectares of land in 14 communities recently devastated by violent conflicts.
The primary goal of this noble initiative is to enhance food production in the region and support the displaced residents.
The 14 communities, spread across the local government areas of Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu, had been severely impacted by attacks, resulting in the displacement of residents and the destruction of farmlands.
To address the dire situation faced by the Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs), ASTC took the lead in cultivating the land, with the NSCDC’s Agro Rangers providing essential protection to prevent any further destruction of crops before harvest.
The official flag-off of the farming intervention took place over the weekend, marking the commencement of the first phase. Additional phases are planned to extend support to more farmers in need.
This visionary initiative, directed by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, came in response to heartfelt appeals and cries from farmers in the affected areas.
Dr. Susan Bentu, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of ASTC, expressed enthusiasm for the project during the official ceremony.
She emphasized the importance of utilizing the remaining rain-fed season to grow crops like cowpeas, soybeans, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes, encouraging the return of displaced farmers to their homes.
Furthermore, the government has committed to providing necessary farm inputs to further aid the farmers in reestablishing their livelihoods.
The seamless collaboration between ASTC and the Agro Rangers from NSCDC ensures the protection of the farms, even in remote areas, boosting the confidence of farmers to return and cultivate the lands.
The benevolent gesture by the Plateau State Government has been met with heartfelt appreciation from the communities.
The District Head of Bungha, Da Danladi Denan, represented by Mr. Yabak Retkat, the District Chairman of Mwaghavul Development Association, expressed profound gratitude for the intervention.
They shared that their farmlands had been deserted and destroyed due to insecurity caused by attacks and the grazing of cattle on crops.
As farmers like Baba Ezekiel Dashial and Nanribet Samuel, who suffered significant losses, appeal for further assistance to recover and repay their loans, the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting their agricultural endeavors remains crucial.
With the successful launch of this farming intervention, hopes are high that it will alleviate the challenges faced by IDPs, revitalize agricultural productivity, and pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for these communities in Plateau State.
The concerted efforts of ASTC, NSCDC Agro Rangers, and the Plateau State Government are shining examples of proactive measures to rebuild and uplift the lives of those affected by conflicts.