Plateau State Government Unveils Plans to Rejuvenate Key Industries and Boost Economy

Strategic Insights -

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has outlined ambitious plans to revive the state's potato, coffee, and livestock industries as part of its strategy to support the development of a cargo airport in the state. The airport is intended to serve as a regional hub for cargo aviation, further boosting the state's economy. Mutfwang emphasized the importance of agriculture, stating that it is the bedrock of society and the cornerstone of his administration.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Plateau State government plans to invest in a cargo airport to make it a regional hub for cargo aviation.
  • The government aims to rejuvenate its potato, coffee, and livestock industries to support the airport development and boost the economy.
  • The current potato seeds in the state are 15-28 generations old, leading to poor yields of three to four tons per hectare, which is below the global minimum of 10 tons per hectare.
  • The government is working with a leading seed company from the Netherlands to improve potato production.
  • A tissue culture project is being revived to enhance potato production.
  • The government has established the Plateau Commodities Marketing Company to stabilize the market and build new markets with storage capacity.
  • The ranching program will focus on employing veterinary doctors and livestock attendants, and cattle will be scientifically tagged.
  • The Jos Abattoir will be revived within three months, with a capacity to slaughter 500 animals daily.
  • The government aims to improve milk production from the current 2.5 litres per day to 20 litres with the introduction of imported dairy breeds.

Statistics:

  • The potato seeds in Plateau State are 15-28 generations old.
  • The current potato yields in the state are three to four tons per hectare, below the global minimum of 10 tons per hectare.
  • The Jos Abattoir has a capacity to slaughter 500 animals daily.

Sources:

  • Governor Caleb Mutfwang's statement at a recent gathering in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.