In a strategic move to tackle rural insecurity and boost food production, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State has commissioned an additional 150 Agro-Rangers under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to provide security for farmers and their produce across the state.
The deployment, described as a major step toward enhancing national food security, took place during the Passing-Out Parade of the Agro-Rangers at the NSCDC Command and Staff College in Naton-Fursa, Jos East Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the urgent need to protect farmlands and farmers, stating that food security is directly tied to national stability and economic resilience.
“Nigerian farms are national assets that must be protected,” the Governor said. “The journey of farmers to and from the farms must be safe and secured if we are to guarantee food security for our nation.”
He lauded the NSCDC’s Agro-Rangers initiative as a complementary force to conventional security efforts, particularly in safeguarding remote and agrarian communities. He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s security chiefs in addressing security challenges facing the state.
“Rural insecurity undermines national stability and economic growth. A hungry population is vulnerable to manipulation. Our farms must not only be protected but also cultivated to attain food security and sovereignty,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang noted that the newly trained Agro-Rangers have already played a crucial role in peace-building efforts, including the recent peaceful evacuation of thousands of cattle from Bokkos Local Government Area, a feat he attributed to their professionalism and commitment.
He charged the new Agro-Rangers to perform their duties with fairness, integrity, and patriotism. “What you are called to do is beyond a job; it is a noble sacrifice for your fellow citizens,” the Governor told the graduating officers.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, confirmed that this is the second batch of Agro-Rangers to be deployed in Plateau State. He pledged the Corps’ continued support for the state government’s peace and security efforts.
“We are proud to be partners in the journey toward sustainable peace and food security. The Agro-Rangers are specially trained to provide security cover for farmers, and we are committed to expanding their operations across the country,” he said.
Dr. Audi had earlier visited Governor Mutfwang at his residence, where they discussed collaborative strategies to further address insecurity in the state.
The ceremony marks another milestone in the Plateau State government’s drive to create an enabling environment for agriculture and rural development as part of its broader vision for peace and prosperity.
Plateau State Deploys 150 Agro-Rangers To Protect Farmers, Strengthen Food Security
