By Hon. Dan Kwada

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In the words of John C. Maxwell: “A leader is one who sees more than others see, who sees farther than others see, and who sees before others see. A leader must be a seer.”

On May 29, 2023, following his swearing-in as the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang outlined key initiatives that will herald his administration’s policies, focusing on security, peace, agriculture, tourism, environmental conservation, commerce, and harnessing natural resource development, but top pressing concerns which dominated the minds of Plateau citizens were security, Peace and agriculture, considering the fact that Plateau people are predominantly farmers.

Having inherited a state under siege, Governor Mutfwang faced the daunting task of restoring peace. Given the predominantly agrarian nature of the state, security was crucial for farmers to thrive, because they were the worst hit with many of them already Sacked from their ancestral homes.

Governor Mutfwang’s ability to navigate the complex security challenges he inherited in Plateau State, address the issues, and restore normalcy, even facilitating the return of some displaced farmers to their communities to enable them to participate during the 2024 farming season where the Governor deployed tractors across the 17 Council areas of the state, is a remarkable achievement that still remains a mystery, drawing commendation from critical stakeholders in the peace and security sector, both within and internationally.

Governor Mutfwang’s pioneering initiatives and unwavering commitment likely galvanized many farmers who had lost hope, rekindling their passion for agriculture. By providing fertilizers at subsidized rates and tractors, a previous pain point, the stage was set for a remarkable turnaround. This strategic move paid off, culminating in a bountiful harvest in Plateau State in 2024.

To translate his vision into tangible action, Governor Mutfwang launched the Plateau Commodity Marketing Company Limited (PLACOM), in 2024, an innovative program designed to bolster agricultural marketing and enhance food security.

PLACOM’s multifaceted operations encompasses securing financing, streamlining post-harvest logistics, and forging vital connections between farmers and expansive local and global markets which today has become a model for other states in Nigeria.

With a significant boost, Governor Mutfwang’s administration released 2 billion Naira to the Plateau Commodity Marketing Company (PLACOM) to purchase harvested produce in 2024 at appreciable values. This strategic investment serves as a vital encouragement to farmers, providing them with a reliable market and fair prices for their produce.

By doing so, the administration aims to stimulate agricultural growth in Plateau State and by extension the North Central and entire Middle-Belt Region, thereby increasing food security, and improve the livelihoods of farmers and citizens.

In a landmark move to fulfill his campaign promises in the Agricultural Sector, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, recently launched a groundbreaking initiative, mobilizing over 1,000 youths from diverse backgrounds, including 340 previously trained in agriculture, for the Plateau State Youth Agricultural Empowerment Programme (PLA-YEAP).

This Novel ambitious project which is the first in the history of Nigeria, underscores Governor Mutfwang’s dedication to harnessing the potential of young people and leveraging agriculture as a catalyst for economic growth and development.

At the heart of this powerful initiative, is the Governor’s trusted friend, confidant and ally, Mr. Yary Kimchi, who is currently overseen the programme, making sure that it is a straightforward yet impactful concept of empowering youths by providing them with land and resources, enabling them to feed the state and potentially, the entire Middle-Belt Region and the Nation.

The PLA-YEAP programme brings together youths from various ethnic nationalities, displaced communities and persons with disabilities from the three senatorial zones, irrespective of their faith or Political affiliation, including thoso who are not from the State, fostering inclusivity and diversity.

By revamping the previously dormant BARC Farm, the Governor Caleb Mutfwang-led administration has transformed it into a thriving hub of agricultural innovation, now managed and operated by Plateau youths, coordinated by a vibrant youths mobilizer, the special advice to the Governor on youths Hon. Hitler Pwajok.

This pioneering initiative not only showcases the governor’s commitment to youth empowerment but also highlights the administration’s vision for a prosperous and sustainable future for Plateau State. By engaging young people in productive agricultural endeavors, Governor Mutfwang aims to stimulate Plateau State and the Middle-Belt Economy, as well as improve livelihoods, and ensure a brighter future for the youths of the region.

Now I understand better, why the people now look up to him as the New Political leader of the Middle-Belt region, because Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s leadership prowess is undeniable, inspiring confidence in his ability to drive progress and development, which is a shining testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to public service.

Mr. Yari Kumchi, Lead Focal Person for PLA-YEAP, elaborated on the program’s objective, stating that it aims to create a generation of self-sufficient and empowered youths who can drive economic growth in Plateau State. “Governor Mutfwang’s vision is to transform youths into producers, rather than mere consumers,” Kumchi explained. “We want them to become entrepreneurs who can make meaningful contributions to society”, he added.

However, this PLAY-YEAP initiative, marks a significant milestone in fulfilling Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s promises and commitment to ensuring that every citizen has a vested interest in Plateau State’s future prosperity.

In just two years in office, Governor Mutfwang has exceeded expectations, delivering remarkable progress not only in agriculture but also in critical sectors such as peace and security, education, healthcare, transportation, tourism, roads Construction and citizen welfare among others, and for me, it is an honor to serve as a appointee under his ‘Time is Now’ administration, where impactful leadership is redefining the future of Plateau and the entire Middle-Belt Region by extension.

No wonder, President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State saw him publicly commending Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s leadership and initiatives in Plateau State. Notably, the President highlighted the Governor’s impactful decisions, including the introduction and launch of new Metro Buses to enhance transportation and the prompt payment of salaries without borrowing, showcasing effective governance and development.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s visionary leadership embodies the essence of John C. Maxwell’s words, ‘A leader is one who sees more than others see, who sees farther than others see, and who sees before others see.’ Through initiatives like PLA-YEAP, Governor Mutfwang demonstrates his ability to see beyond the present, envisioning a brighter future for Plateau State’s youth and economy.

For Plateau youths, the burden of trust is now on their shoulders and the message is clear: the future is in their hands, and the time is now to cultivate the land for wealth creation. This clarion call to action underscores the importance of seizing opportunities in agriculture, empowering youths to become key drivers of the state’s economic growth.

By embracing this vision, Plateau youths can unlock their potential, build a prosperous future, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.

Written by: Hon. Dan Kwada (SSA To The Executive Governor Of Plateau State On Middle-Belt Affairs) ~ 25 June, 2025