The Plateau State Fertilizer Association has ushered in a new era of leadership, inaugurating Geoffrey Bisat as its chairman in a historic transition—the first in over 16 years. The swearing-in ceremony was held on Tuesday at Simmer Restaurant, Gold and Base, Jos.

In his inaugural speech, Bisat, who is also the founder of Geo-B Integrated Business Limited, pledged to reform the fertilizer distribution system in the state and ensure that farmers receive quality products. He emphasized the association’s crucial role in supporting agriculture, stating that its members supply nearly 90% of farm inputs required for food production across the state.

“We are committed to sanitizing the system,” Bisat said. “Our members must ensure that what they sell is sourced from credible companies, giving farmers value for their money. Gone are the days when substandard inputs flood the market.”

He further highlighted the association’s intent to work closely with government agencies to ensure timely and efficient delivery of agricultural interventions, especially during critical planting seasons.

Addressing concerns about past abuses where some members allegedly diverted government-subsidized fertilizers to open markets, Bisat said the new leadership will sensitize members to stay clear of such activities. “These interventions are meant for vulnerable farmers, and it’s our duty to protect that integrity,” he stressed.

Bisat also laid out a vision for the association that includes stronger internal collaboration, better information sharing among members, and closer engagement with stakeholders to improve the agricultural sector.

Also present at the event was Hon. Matthew Kwarpo, the member representing Mangu South in the Plateau State House of Assembly and Chairman of the House Committee on Information. He applauded the new leadership and described the inauguration as timely, given the ongoing farming season.

“As lawmakers, our message to the association is clear: go beyond taking oaths—act in ways that deliver tangible benefits to the farmers,” Kwarpo said. “Our people rely heavily on fertilizer for farming, and it’s the responsibility of this association to ensure availability, affordability, and quality.”

He further pledged the support of the House of Assembly in fostering collaboration between the association, the government, and other stakeholders, ensuring that fertilizer reaches grassroots farmers in both quantity and quality.

The event drew stakeholders from the agricultural sector, including representatives from government agencies, farmers’ cooperatives, and community leaders, all expressing optimism that the new executive team would drive progress and restore trust in fertilizer distribution across the state for the next four years.