The Plateau State Government has pledged to put into effect a newly developed food security strategy aimed at improving agricultural productivity, strengthening livelihoods and promoting lasting peace across the state.
The commitment was made during the launch of the strategic plan, which was produced through a partnership between the state government and the Supply Chain Research and Innovation Hub under the SPRING Programme.
Speaking on behalf of the state government, the Director of Agricultural Services in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lang Zakka, described the initiative as a practical step towards improving the welfare of families and communities.
He said the programme had encouraged cooperation among communities, contributed to improved security and created conditions that support agricultural development.
According to him, the government will complete the outstanding responsibilities left by the implementing partners and ensure the document serves as a guide for policy and action rather than remaining only a written plan.
He added that the initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to peace and food security.
The programme brought together representatives of the Ministries of Agriculture and Rural Development from Mangu, Pankshin and Shendam local government areas, as well as community leaders, researchers and other stakeholders who contributed to the development of the strategy.
Regional Programme Manager of SPRING, Mujidang Sitang, represented by Regional Grant Officer Tony Yusuf, said the programme also developed an early warning and early response framework for Plateau State.
He noted that security personnel, including members of Operation Rainbow, received training to strengthen their capacity in supporting community safety and food security.
Yusuf expressed confidence in the quality of the strategic plan, describing it as professionally developed and capable of delivering lasting results if fully implemented.
He encouraged the state government to move beyond adopting the document and focus on translating its recommendations into concrete action.
Also speaking, Executive Director of the Supply Chain Research and Innovation Hub, Adebayo Adeleke, represented by Yusuf Akorede, said the strategy is designed to reshape the state’s agricultural sector by promoting the participation of women, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in efforts to improve food production and food security.
He said the document provides a framework for collaboration, resource mobilisation and accountability among stakeholders, stressing that its true value will be determined by the progress achieved through implementation in the years ahead.
