Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has pledged full support for the Plateau COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (PL-CARES) as it begins constructing access roads in over 30 rural areas across the state’s 17 local government areas. This initiative, targeting farming communities, aims to alleviate hunger and reduce high food prices by enhancing transportation infrastructure for farmers, encouraging large-scale farming, and positioning Plateau State as a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria.
This endorsement was highlighted during a recent visit by the monitoring team from the State Cares Coordinating Unit of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Program to several project sites across Plateau State.
Dr. Haggai Gutap, Technical Head of NG-CARES in Plateau State, who led the state monitoring team, emphasized the scope and significance of the project. “The project encompasses 35 roads across the state’s 17 local government areas. The governor’s support has been pivotal in making us one of the leading states in Nigeria for this initiative. Local government cooperation has been crucial, particularly in the distribution of farming inputs coordinated by Fadama,” Gutap noted.
Gutap stressed the importance of road infrastructure for agricultural settlements. “Good roads are vital for farmers to transport their goods to markets efficiently, reducing transportation costs and ultimately lowering food prices. This initiative will open up the economy, enhance access to farms, reduce poverty, and increase food security in the state,” he explained.
Transition Committee Chairman of Mikang Local Government Area, Daniel Kungmi, praised the intervention. “The transformation of our roads is remarkable. The swift completion of these projects is impressive and aligns with World Bank standards. We are eager to support further road development initiatives, aiming to attract more interventions to Mikang, which currently lacks state government road infrastructure,” Kungmi stated.
Gideon Damdam, the state overseer of the Farmer Cares Program, highlighted the program’s commitment to supporting farmers. “Fadama Cares focuses on alleviating the difficulties farmers face due to poor roads. By improving transportation, we help farmers move their produce more efficiently, enhancing their livelihoods,” Damdam said. He added that Fadama’s support extends to crop production, livestock processing, and asset acquisition.
Hon. Markus Artu, Transition Committee Chairman for Mangu LGA, emphasized the initiative’s impact on rural communities. “This intervention is crucial for facilitating the transport of agricultural goods to markets and boosting economic activities in our agrarian society,” Artu stated.
The project’s success is attributed to the proactive approach and collaboration between the government and stakeholders. “Our leadership is innovative and people-centered. Dr. Haggai and his team align with the governor’s agenda to improve livelihoods. This project will make farming attractive, especially for the youth,” Artu concluded.
The monitoring team inspected the progress of road construction in various communities, including Farin Number-Gurum Road in Bassa LGA, Kudedu Road in Jos East LGA, and Nding Sesut in Barkin Ladi LGA, Daika – Ajing in Panyam Fwangwak to Kung kerang, Konbring Road Ampang West, LingpangDis Pankshin South Kopkuleng to Mundung in Chip, Kalong Gindin Mangoro Shendam, Lalin to Baltak Mikang LGA, Kurkwar to Funyanyilang, Gazum to Gabong in Langtang north Chorbe- Jimi 4km Kanke. Expressing satisfaction with the work, Dr. Haggai Gutap emphasized the project’s role in revitalizing the local economy.
“Since the commencement of this activity, we have seen impressive results. Beneficiaries have expressed immense satisfaction, highlighting the government’s effective intervention. Monitoring and evaluation are critical to the success of this program, ensuring that projects are completed to the highest standards,” Gutap remarked.
The NG-CARES program includes various interventions such as distribution of farm inputs, provision of agricultural assets, and support for small businesses. These initiatives aim to enhance productivity, reduce poverty, and increase food security in Plateau State.
“NG-CARES adopts a holistic approach. By efficiently implementing these interventions, we aim to reduce poverty, unemployment, and create jobs while enhancing food security within our state,” Gutap concluded.
