By Abdullahi Lukman
The Plateau State government has announced plans to revitalize its agriculture sector—focusing on potatoes, coffee, and livestock—as part of a broader strategy to support a proposed cargo airport aimed at boosting the state’s economy.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang revealed that the cargo airport, expected to begin development next year, is intended to serve as a regional hub for cargo aviation. He emphasized that agriculture remains the bedrock of society and a key priority for his administration.
To align with this vision, the state is leveraging its favorable climate and reorganizing its agricultural ministry into two divisions: crops and livestock.
This restructuring aims to increase efficiency and improve output in both areas.
Mutfwang highlighted efforts to improve Plateau’s flagship crop—potatoes—by partnering with a Dutch seed company to replace aging seeds, some of which are over 20 generations old and produce below-average yields.
The state is also reviving a tissue culture lab and building new storage-equipped markets under the Plateau Commodities Marketing Company.
On livestock, the governor clarified that the government’s initiative in Wase is for ranching, not the controversial RUGA project.
The ranching program will focus on boosting meat and milk production through improved breeds, scientific tagging of cattle, and employment of veterinary professionals.
Mutfwang noted that local cows currently yield just 2.5 liters of milk per day, compared to the 20 liters from imported dairy breeds.
The Jos Abattoir is also to be revived within three months, with a daily processing capacity of 500 animals.
These initiatives, according to the governor, are designed to modernize agriculture and position Plateau State as a key player in regional agri-business and logistics.
