The Plateau State Government has commenced the implementation phase of the Plateau Youth Agricultural Empowerment Programme (P-YAEP), with 500 young beneficiaries under its Agro Partnership Programme (APP) beginning cultivation activities after receiving farm plots at BARC Farms in Zallaki, Bassa Local Government Area.
The development marks a significant milestone for the initiative as participants transition from orientation and planning to active agricultural production.
The beneficiaries, who earlier assembled at Government College, Farin Gada, Jos, were transported to the expansive BARC Farms where plots were allocated and planting activities officially commenced.
The programme is part of the state government’s broader effort to promote youth participation in commercial agriculture, create employment opportunities, and enhance food production across Plateau State.
Speaking during the commencement of field operations, the Project Lead of P-YAEP, Mr. James Jan Diyong, described the programme as a practical demonstration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s commitment to youth empowerment through agriculture.
According to Diyong, the government has established a structured support system to remove barriers that often discourage young people from venturing into farming. He explained that beneficiaries have been provided access to farmland, mechanization services, improved agricultural inputs, technical support, security, and ongoing field supervision.
He added that participants would be closely monitored throughout the farming season to ensure compliance with best agricultural practices and to maximize productivity. He also urged beneficiaries to adhere to the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding signed during the onboarding process.
Chairman of the Plateau State Youth Council, Comrade Panan Gongden Dapar, described the initiative as a transformative opportunity for young people to build wealth and sustainable livelihoods through agriculture.
He encouraged participants to take the programme seriously and remain disciplined and committed in order to reap its full benefits.
Also speaking, the Project Technical Supervisor, Mr. Amos Dashe, assured beneficiaries of continuous technical assistance throughout the production cycle, noting that extension officers and supervisors would provide guidance aimed at ensuring quality yields and successful harvests.
The young farmers expressed enthusiasm as they began planting activities, describing the programme as a unique opportunity to engage in commercial agriculture and secure long-term economic opportunities. Many pledged to make effective use of the support provided while contributing to food security in the state.
With planting activities now underway, the Agro Partnership Programme has entered its full implementation phase, reinforcing the Plateau State Government’s vision of building a vibrant, youth-driven agricultural economy.
Officials say the initiative is designed to nurture a new generation of agripreneurs capable of creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and expanding agricultural production across Plateau State.
