By PETER TITLE & THERESA NAANBAN
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has announced a N1 billion budgetary provision to support research and innovation among indigenous residents as part of efforts to stimulate economic growth, promote local enterprise and position the state as a major industrial and commercial hub.
Mutfwang disclosed this on Wednesday while declaring open the 11th Jos National Trade Fair, organised by the Plateau State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (PLACCIMA) at the Jos Polo Field, along Joseph Gomwalk Road, Jos.
The governor described the fair, themed, ‘Harnessing Agricultural and Livestock Value Chains for Food Security, Job Creation and Shared Prosperity’, as timely and strategic, noting that its focus aligned with his administration’s economic vision for the state.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing strategic initiatives aimed at transforming Plateau into a leading destination for industrial and commercial activities.
“Trade fairs such as this remain vital platforms for innovation, collaboration and the exchange of ideas among nations, states and businesses. They provide fertile ground for enterprises to take root, flourish and expand in the global marketplace,” he said.
Mutfwang highlighted Plateau State’s agricultural potential, noting that its fertile land, temperate climate and resilient farming population had positioned it as a major producer of Plateau potatoes, tomatoes, maize, exotic vegetables, flowers and livestock.
He, however, stressed the need to move beyond primary production to value addition through processing, preservation, packaging and improved market access.
According to him, sustainable economic development requires efficient agricultural value chains that can reduce post-harvest losses, improve food availability and create employment opportunities for young people and women.
“For food security, we must move from farm to factory to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure year-round food availability,” he stated.
He added that employment opportunities for young people and women could be expanded through activities such as agricultural aggregation, cold-chain logistics, processing and export.
The governor outlined ongoing efforts by his administration to revive moribund industries and rehabilitate key hospitality assets, including Hill Station Hotel and Plateau Hotel, as part of broader measures to revitalise the state’s economy.
On livestock development, Mutfwang disclosed that a new abattoir capable of processing 500 cattle daily was under construction at Heipang, Barakin Ladi Local Government Area.
He further revealed that plans were underway to revitalise potato farming through the Plateau Potatoes initiative, supported by cold-chain facilities to improve preservation, reduce wastage and enhance market access.
The governor also announced a partnership with Chinese investors to establish an industrial park, expressing optimism that the project would boost industrialisation, attract investment and create employment opportunities in the state.
Earlier, the President of PLACCIMA, Elder Bulus Dareng, commended the state government for supporting the trade fair despite the logistical challenges confronting its organisation.
Dareng pointed out that the provision of a permanent venue for the event would expand participation, improve coordination and strengthen Plateau State’s commercial profile.
“We thank the state government for supporting this trade fair. They truly want to improve the economy of our dear state. Thank you immensely, Governor Mutfwang,” he said.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Musa Ashoms, called for stronger public-private partnerships to connect the state’s abundant agricultural resources with investment, agro-processing and modern technology.
Ashoms emphasised the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in unlocking Plateau State’s economic potential and creating sustainable opportunities for businesses.
The Chairman of the occasion, Chief Samaila Makama, urged the government to provide accessible industrial sites to encourage investment and support the growth of local enterprises.
He also called on the organisers to reposition subsequent editions of the trade fair as platforms for serious business negotiations, investment agreements and measurable trade transactions, rather than limiting them to exhibitions and networking.
The 11th Jos National Trade Fair is expected to strengthen business relationships, showcase local products, promote indigenous enterprises and attract investment capable of accelerating economic growth and development in Plateau State.