The Agricultural Services and Training Centre (ASTC) is fully equipped and prepared to assist displaced farming communities in Plateau State through a new mechanized cultivation intervention, according to Dr. Susan Bentu, Managing Director and CEO of ASTC. This initiative, approved by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, aims to address the disruption of farming activities caused by recent conflicts.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony at ASTC’s Mangu office, Dr. Bentu highlighted the program’s focus on aiding local farming communities affected by violence, which has led to food shortages and increased costs. The intervention will last approximately four weeks and cover various zones, including Northern, Central, and Southern Plateau State.
In her remarks, Dr. Bentu expressed gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for supporting the program. She outlined the cultivation targets for different regions: maize and potatoes in the Northern and Central zones, and rice in the Southern zone. She emphasized ASTC’s longstanding commitment to providing agricultural services and innovations, which have significantly benefited Plateau State farmers over the years.
“This intervention program is free for the farmers, as the state government has already covered the costs,” Dr. Bentu noted. “We are deploying three dedicated teams across the state to ensure efficient and comprehensive service delivery.”
The Plateau State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Samson Ishaku Bugama, also spoke at the event. He underscored the importance of restoring livelihoods for displaced communities and announced the provision of seeds for the cultivated areas to ensure a bountiful harvest.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with ASTC’s mission to empower farmers and enhance food security,” Dr. Bentu concluded. “We are committed to stabilizing the economy and supporting our farmers through every season.”
With a fleet of 300 high-capacity tractors and a motivated workforce, ASTC is set to make a significant impact on agricultural productivity in Plateau State, fostering resilience and growth in local farming communities.
