Plateau State joined the global community to mark World Food Day 2025 with the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” reaffirming its commitment to food security, sustainable agriculture, and a greener economy.
The event, held at Crispan Suites and Event Centre in Jos, brought together government officials, farmers, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening food systems and improving livelihoods across the state.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Chief of Staff, Jeremiah Satmak, restated the government’s strong commitment to food security and agricultural growth. He praised the Ministry of Agriculture for reviving the World Food Day celebration after many years.
Satmak noted that the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future” aligns with Governor Mutfwang’s vision for inclusive growth and sustainable development across Plateau communities.
He highlighted that the state government has supported over 300,000 farmers with inputs and distributed 18,000 seedlings to boost agricultural productivity. Rural road construction covering 331 kilometers and the renovation of 12 warehouses with modern storage facilities were also completed to reduce post-harvest losses.
Satmak further revealed a 30-hectare climate-resilient pasture project with solar-powered systems to enhance livestock production, describing these efforts as part of Plateau’s drive toward innovation, peace, and sustainability in agriculture.
Presenting an overview of agriculture and food systems on the Plateau, Hon. Ishaku Bugama, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, said the state has made significant progress in food production. He explained that Plateau now boasts over 140,000 cows, 50,000 sheep, and 50,000 bulls.
Bugama noted that the state government has equipped Paxco with tractors, implemented ranching programs, and supported local farmers through nine community markets, 22 water harvesting structures, and 500 water pumps to improve rice farming.
He added that a tissue culture lab and 344 processing centers have been established to strengthen value addition and livestock health. He also commended Governor Mutfwang for supporting displaced farmers through the Livelihood Restoration Plan.
Delivering the keynote, Prof. Dauda Bawa from the University of Jos said the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future” reflects the need for teamwork to achieve food security. He urged the state to embrace climate-smart farming, nutrition improvement, and market linkages.
Bawa emphasized the importance of youth and women’s involvement, improved storage and processing, and stronger public-private partnerships to build a resilient food system.
An American delegate, Mr. Dawn, representing a leading U.S. livestock genetics organization, announced plans to collaborate with Nigerian institutions, including the University of Jos, to improve sheep and goat breeding through artificial insemination and embryo transfer.
Dr. Sunday Apka, Commissioner for Livestock Development, in his closing remarks, thanked participants for celebrating World Food Day, appreciated Prof. Bawa and international partners for their support, and noted that livestock is the next phase of agriculture. He commended the Agriculture Ministry’s efforts, acknowledged the media and school children, and prayed for peace and progress in Plateau State.
