In the heart of Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, lies BARC Farms once a proud economic powerhouse that employed over 1,300 people directly and created more than 7,000 indirect jobs. In the late 1990s, this hub of agricultural activity was sold off, fell into disuse, and slowly became a shadow of its former self.
Today, that story is changing. The Plateau State Government, under the visionary leadership of Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has set out to breathe new life into BARC Farms. Through the Plateau Youth Agricultural Empowerment Program (2025), the farm’s fertile lands are being placed back into the hands of those who will shape the future the youths of Plateau State.
Hitler Joshua Pwajok, Special Adviser to the Executive Governor on Youth Mobilization and Engagement, and Project Coordinator for the program, explained the heart of the initiative:
“We’re starting with a pilot plan of 1,000 hectares. Each youth will be given one hectare to farm, with all necessary inputs machinery, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides provided by the government. This is a rare opportunity, and His Excellency wants our young people to embrace it with dedication and vision.”
Though BARC Farms spans over 4,000 hectares, the pilot phase focuses on 1,000 hectares to test readiness and build capacity. Once proven, the project is set to grow into an annual program, with the ambitious goal of training 15,000–20,000 youths before the end of the governor’s tenure.
The program isn’t just about providing land it’s about equipping young people with the skills and knowledge to succeed. Every week, batches of 100 youths arrive at BARC Farms for intensive hands-on training. For this season, crops include maize, soybeans, rice, and iron beans. Participants learn the full agricultural cycle from machine operation and planting techniques to fertilizer application and livestock management.
The facilitators brought in to inspire and educate have made a real difference. Temitope Obie Thomas led sessions on Introduction to Pig Farming, opening participants’ eyes to the profitability and techniques of managing swine production.
Dr. Dayo Makinde delivered expert training on Poultry Nutrition, Disease Management, and Marketing, ensuring that youths can run healthy and profitable poultry enterprises.
Mr. Jerry Mallo shared innovations in farm mechanization and productivity, introducing modern tools and technology to replace outdated manual methods.
Mr. Yari Kumchi, the Project Anchor, addressed participants, emphasizing that “the government has already invested in you. It’s time to invest in yourself.”
For many, the program is more than just training it’s a turning point in their lives. John Zopmal, a civil servant with the National Center for Hormone Sensing, shared
“This program has been very impactful. I’ve learned how to properly apply fertilizer, select the right soil for crops, and manage different types of livestock. It’s also given me insight into modern farming methods that can increase productivity. In the next 5–10 years, I see myself owning a farm that employs hundreds of people.”
Joy Doy, another participant, expressed her excitement
“I never imagined I would have the chance to farm on this scale, with access to real machinery and expert guidance. This is a life-changing opportunity, especially for women. It has opened my mind to agribusiness and how much we can achieve when given the right tools.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, describing the program as “a rare chance that cuts through bureaucracy”, “a direct investment in youth potential”, and “the beginning of a new agricultural revolution in Plateau State.”
The Plateau Youth Agricultural Empowerment Program is not just about growing crops; it’s about growing possibilities. By the end of each cycle, profits from each youth’s hectare will go directly to them, giving them seed capital to start or expand their own agricultural ventures. Some are already planning to form cooperatives to acquire machinery and set up processing facilities a step that could spark a thriving agro-industry in Plateau State.
As Hitler Joshua Pwajok summed it up
“This is more than a project; it’s a movement to change mindsets and build a generation of economically independent young people. By God’s grace, we will keep pushing until this vision becomes a reality.”
With fertile land, passionate youths, committed facilitators, and strong government support, BARC Farms is once again poised to become a symbol of prosperity not just for Plateau State, but for Nigeria as a whole.
