In a decisive move to enhance peace and agricultural productivity, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has commissioned 150 newly trained Agro-Rangers. These personnel will provide vital security support to farmers and safeguard agricultural produce across the state a strategic effort aimed at bolstering national food security and achieving food sovereignty in Nigeria.
The Governor made this announcement at the Passing-Out Parade of the Agro-Rangers, held at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Command and Staff College, Naton-Fursa, in Jos East Local Government Area.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive development, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the importance of securing agricultural infrastructure and rural communities.
“Our farmlands are national assets that must be protected. Farmers must be able to journey to and from their fields in safety if we are to secure food for our nation,” the Governor stated.
He expressed gratitude to God for the success of the event and acknowledged the broader significance of the initiative in advancing security and peace in Plateau State. He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s security chiefs for their continued collaboration in addressing security challenges in the region.
Governor Mutfwang commended the NSCDC for its Agro-Rangers initiative, describing it as a timely and impactful strategy that complements the work of conventional security forces in rural communities.
“The Agro-Rangers program is a commendable response to the specific security needs of our agrarian population. While conventional forces protect our sovereignty, Agro-Rangers play a crucial role in defending our food systems,” he noted.
He warned that rural insecurity threatens both national stability and economic growth, adding that hunger can make populations vulnerable to manipulation. He underscored the need to protect not just farmland, but also the lives and livelihoods of the people who cultivate it.
“These Agro-Rangers have been trained to ensure that farmers return home safely and that the fruits of their labour are preserved. Our goal is not just food security, but food sovereignty,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang also disclosed that the recent peaceful evacuation of thousands of stranded cattle from Bokkos Local Government Area carried out in collaboration with security agencies including the Agro-Rangers is a testament to the state’s commitment to resolving conflict through professionalism and dialogue.
He charged the graduating officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and patriotism in their duties:
“This is more than a job it is a noble sacrifice for your fellow citizens. Uphold justice and fairness. Remain committed to safeguarding our farms and rural communities.”
Earlier, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, stated that this is the second deployment of Agro-Rangers in Plateau State. He reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to partnering with the State Government in securing farming communities and supporting sustainable peace.
“We are proud to be part of the journey toward lasting food security. The Agro-Rangers are specially trained to protect our farmers, and we are working to expand their reach across Nigeria,” he said.
Dr. Audi had also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Mutfwang, during which both leaders held productive discussions on deepening security interventions across Plateau State.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs
To the Executive Governor of Plateau State
Date: July 8, 2025
