GOVERNOR MUTFWANG COMMISSIONS TRACTORS, DISBURSES $250,000 TO TEN COMMUNITIES, COMMITS TO TACKLING POVERTY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH WORLD BANK
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has taken a significant step toward revitalizing Plateau State’s agricultural sector and reducing poverty by commissioning 20 tractors for farming communities across the state. This initiative aligns with his administration’s vision for achieving food security and economic empowerment.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos, followed the Plateau State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes Project (ACReSAL) Day and the disbursement of a Community Revolving Fund (CRF). Speaking at the event, Governor Mutfwang assured attendees that the tractors would be utilized effectively to benefit both the state and its people.
He further revealed that the government, through the Plateau Agricultural Development Programme, plans to secure over 200 additional tractors to enhance agricultural productivity, ensuring food security and sovereignty across the state.
In addition to the tractor commissioning, Governor Mutfwang presented a $250,000 CRF cheque to ten communities. Supported by the World Bank in collaboration with the Plateau State Government under the ACReSAL initiative, the fund aims to empower rural communities financially. Each community received $25,000, with a repayment plan designed to extend the benefits to other communities.
The ten beneficiary communities include Guratop, Kerang, Zamko, Ampang West, Dinting, Jimin, Kaler, Plateau Club/Bingham, Pishe, Yashi, and Wereh. The Governor urged the communities to use the funds judiciously, emphasizing that the revolving fund initiative is intended to foster sustainable community development.
“I want to thank the World Bank for the initiatives you’ve introduced on the Plateau. Let me assure you that, by the grace of God, none of these projects will fail. We are committed to ensuring that the funds and equipment are judiciously used to uplift our people,” the Governor stated.
He highlighted that the ultimate goal of these projects is to alleviate poverty and improve the standard of living for Plateau residents. Governor Mutfwang also called on citizens to support government initiatives and avoid divisive actions that could hinder progress. He encouraged the cultivation of available land, particularly in schools, during the upcoming farming season.
The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr. Ndiame Diop, congratulated the beneficiary communities and stressed the importance of addressing climate change’s adverse effects on agriculture. He noted that desertification and climate change pose significant threats to agriculture, a vital livelihood for Plateau residents. Through ACReSAL, he explained, the World Bank aims to help vulnerable communities adapt to climate impacts while improving their livelihoods.
Dr. Diop praised Governor Mutfwang and his administration for their commitment to the project’s success and urged the communities to manage the funds responsibly.
Key stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, ACReSAL Task Team Leader Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, Commissioner of Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development Hon. Peter Kannang Gwom, and Plateau State ACReSAL Coordinator Mr. Garba Gowon Gonkol, lauded the Governor for fostering meaningful partnerships that directly benefit the people of Plateau State.
