To ensure that only legitimate farmers receive fertilizers this planting season, the Plateau State Government has initiated a digital registration and mapping system for farmers and their farm locations across all 17 Local Government Areas of the state.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang announced this initiative while launching the distribution of subsidized fertilizers and other essential farming inputs for the 2025 season in Jos.
He emphasized that the adoption of technology represents a significant shift toward efficiency, preventing exploitation by middlemen and ensuring that only genuine farmers benefit from the program.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to agriculture as the foundation of the state’s economy, the governor highlighted its role in driving economic growth, alleviating poverty, and ensuring food security.
“Agriculture remains our most vital economic sector. The people of Plateau have a natural advantage that, if properly harnessed, can lead to food self-sufficiency and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic development,” he stated.
Addressing past challenges, he recalled that in 2023, the state procured 200 trucks of subsidized fertilizer. However, middlemen exploited the system, preventing the intended beneficiaries from fully accessing the resources.
“This year, we have taken lessons from those setbacks and adopted a more strategic approach. By leveraging technology, we are improving efficiency to ensure that fertilizers reach the real farmers who genuinely need them,” he assured.
Governor Mutfwang expressed confidence that integrating technology into agricultural initiatives would boost productivity while establishing a sustainable foundation for the sector’s long-term development.
The event concluded with a symbolic presentation of subsidized fertilizers and other farm inputs to registered farmers, reinforcing the state’s commitment to agricultural empowerment and efficiency.