The Plateau State Government has moved the Plateau Youth Agricultural Empowerment Programme (P-YAEP) from planning to action as 500 young beneficiaries under its Agro Partnership Programme (APP) have officially begun planting at BARC Farms, Zallaki, following the allocation of farm plots.
The commencement of planting marks a major milestone for the programme, with participants now actively engaged in commercial agriculture after completing their onboarding and orientation exercises. The beneficiaries first gathered at Government College, Farin Gada, Jos, before proceeding to the expansive BARC Farms in Bassa Local Government Area, where farm plots were allocated and cultivation immediately commenced.
For the Plateau State Government, the exercise represents more than the beginning of another farming season. It reflects a deliberate strategy to transform agriculture into a sustainable source of employment and enterprise for young people while boosting food production across the state.
Speaking at the event, the Project Lead of P-YAEP, Mr. James Jan Diyong, said the programme is a practical demonstration of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s commitment to empowering youths through agriculture. He noted that rather than leaving young people to struggle with the high cost of entering farming, the government has created a structured system that provides access to land, mechanization, improved inputs, technical guidance, security, and continuous field support.
He explained that participants will be monitored throughout the production cycle to ensure adherence to best agricultural practices and to maximize productivity. He also reminded beneficiaries to comply with the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding signed during onboarding.
Chairman of the Plateau State Youth Council, Comrade Panan Gongden Dapar, described the initiative as a life-changing opportunity capable of creating wealth for young people if properly utilized. He encouraged participants to approach the programme with seriousness, discipline, and commitment.
Also speaking, the Project Technical Supervisor, Mr. Amos Dashe, assured beneficiaries that technical officers would continue to provide guidance throughout the farming season to ensure quality production and successful harvests.
Participants expressed excitement as they entered the fields for the first phase of planting, describing the programme as an opportunity to build sustainable livelihoods through commercial agriculture. Many pledged to make full use of the support provided and contribute to improving food security in Plateau State.
The commencement of field operations signals the full implementation of the Agro Partnership Programme and further strengthens the Plateau State Government’s vision of developing a vibrant, youth-driven agricultural economy. Through P-YAEP, the government continues to invest in building a new generation of agripreneurs capable of driving economic growth, creating jobs, and expanding agricultural production across the state.
