The Plateau State Government has held a stakeholder engagement with the Pengana Chiefdom, host community of BARC Farms, as part of its preparations to launch the Plateau State Youth Agricultural Empowerment Program, which is set to launch at BARC Farms.

The forum provided an opportunity for members of the host community to ask questions about the initiative, its sustainability, and the security of the farm. They also raised concerns about certain unclear aspects and explored opportunities they could leverage.

The Executive Chairman of Bassa LGC, Dr. Joshua Riti, the Ogomo Pengana, HRH Mamman Esua Shayang, and other leaders took turns commending the government for the initiative and encouraging their people to support the project.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Mobilization and Engagement, Hon. Joshua Pwajok Hitler, and the Focal Person for the initiative, Mr. Yari Kumchi, shared the Governor’s vision for the farm and emphasized the importance of community involvement. They also received valuable suggestions regarding various aspects of the project.

The government delegation was led by the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ibrahim Ashoms. Other members of the delegation included the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Jonathan Dabo, the General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board, Arch. Hart Bankat, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Development Agency, Pharm. Kim Bot, as well as the Managing Director of the Plateau Investment and Property Development Company (PIPC) Limited, Mr. Danlami Jelka, and the General Manager of the Jos Market Authority, Engr. Mangna Wumyil. Village heads, leaders of development associations, and youth groups from the host community also attended the meeting.

At the end of the engagement, four key resolutions were read by Hon. Musa Ibrahim Ashoms and adopted by the gathering:

1. Stakeholders agreed that youths from the host community should be incorporated into the project.

2. A portion of the farm should be allocated for cattle rearing.

3. Security for both the community and the farm is crucial to the success of the initiative.

4. A portion of the farm will be set aside for community members who wish to continue farming at BARC Farms.

After the meeting, Hon. Ashoms outlined the importance of stakeholder engagement for the success of the Youth Agricultural Empowerment Initiative. He also announced that, in an effort to reduce costs, items such as doors, windows, and other materials from the ongoing renovation of Plateau Hotel will be repurposed at BARC Farms as part of preparations for the 2025 farming season.

“For every project to be sustained, stakeholder engagement is key. That’s why we’ve brought in local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and community gatekeepers to ensure they are well-informed about the plans for BARC Farms,” said Hon. Ashoms.

He continued, “We are also using materials from Plateau Hotel to help transform this place. This is part of our commitment to cutting costs while restoring BARC Farms to its full potential. Our goal is to create a functional and productive environment here.”

Hon. Ashoms also announced plans for further community and youth engagement as the farm prepares for the full launch of farming activities. “By May, we plan to start cultivating the land and give young people the opportunity to benefit from this initiative.”

He emphasized that despite being a government-owned property, the farm will include the host community. “The community will not be excluded; a portion of the land will be allocated to them for farming and other agricultural activities, including animal husbandry.”

On security, he reassured the community that the government has put in place all necessary measures to protect the farm, though he noted that security details could not be discussed openly.

“This project is for the people of Plateau. It is an opportunity for the youth to earn a living, learn modern agricultural techniques, and improve their economic situations. This is just the beginning, and we intend to expand it to the Central and Southern Zones once it succeeds,” he concluded.

Hon. Ashoms stressed the economic benefits of the initiative, highlighting that the project will provide financial opportunities for Plateau youth. “By the end of this program, the youths will be empowered with both skills and earnings. This is a project that will change lives and contribute to food security in the state.”

Earlier, Samuel Bulus Sarrabo, President of the Buji Development Association, Youth Wing, praised the government’s effort to engage youth and address security concerns at the farm. “We are excited about this project because it not only provides employment but also tackles the issue of youth idleness.”

He added, “Our only concern is the timing of the planting season. In farming, timing is crucial. If we start late, we may not achieve the desired harvest, but if the timing is right, the project will be a great success.”

Dakama Sunday Emmanuel, National President of the Guz Development Association, also spoke positively about the initiative. “We commend the government for revitalizing the BARC Farms. The improvements, such as new roads and the introduction of training workers, will benefit farmers and youth in the region.”

He concluded, “This initiative will have a lasting impact on food security in Plateau State. We believe the government will sustain this project and continue to provide opportunities for the people.”

This engagement marks a significant step in ensuring the success of the Youth Agricultural Empowerment Initiative, fostering collaboration between the government and the host community for mutual benefit.