The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has inaugurated 150 trained agro-rangers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to tackle the security challenges in the state.
Mr Mutfwang inaugurated the agro rangers at the end of their training on Tuesday in the Naton-Fursa community of Jos East LGA.
The governor stated that the initiative was a strategic intervention designed to ensure food security and sovereignty in Nigeria.
Mr Mutfwang explained that the 150 agro rangers, who were added to existing ones, would provide dedicated security for farmers and their produce across the state.
He added that the move also aimed to complement the efforts of other security agencies in boosting farming activities in the state.
“Our farms are critical national assets that must not only be protected but also cultivated to attain food security and sovereignty.
“The journey of farmers to and from the farms must be safe and secure if we are to guarantee food security for our nation.
“These agro-rangers have been trained to ensure that farmers can return home safely and that the fruits of their labour are not destroyed.
“While our security forces continue to uphold the sovereignty and internal stability of the country, the agro-rangers initiative by the NSCDC is a timely and commendable response to the unique security needs of our agrarian communities,” Mr Mutfwang said.
The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu and security chiefs for their commitment towards tackling the security challenges confronting the state.
Earlier, Ahmed Audi, NSCDC’s commandant general, said the 150 trained personnel were the second batch of agro-rangers deployed in Plateau.
He affirmed the corps’ determination to support the state government in tackling security challenges, especially in farming communities.
“We are proud to be partners in the journey toward sustainable peace and food security. The agro-rangers are specially trained to provide security cover for farmers, and we are committed to expanding their operations across the country,” he stated.
