Jul 11, 2026

Plateau Governor Mutfwang Launches Potato Revolution with State-of-the-Art Value Chain Project

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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MANGU, Plateau State — In a landmark move poised to reshape Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang on Friday commissioned a comprehensive Potato Value Chain Project, including a modern Tissue Culture Laboratory and distribution of advanced farming equipment in Mangu Local Government Area.

The initiative aims to transform Plateau—already Nigeria’s leading potato-producing region—from a raw commodity supplier into a major hub for processing, value addition, and agro-industrial growth. The project encompasses seed multiplication, farmer training, processing facilities, rural infrastructure, and market development.

Governor Mutfwang described the commissioning as a story of recovery and repositioning.

He noted that the project, which faced near-cancellation when his administration took office, now stands as a model of effective governance through competent execution.

“When you get the right people to do the right job, you get the right results,” he declared.

The Governor emphasized that true agricultural success extends far beyond cultivation.

The Potato Value Chain Project includes processing into chips and flakes, packaging, marketing, and even integration into the state’s school feeding programme.

This holistic approach is expected to generate multiple revenue streams, create sustainable jobs, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported potato products.

Mutfwang expressed confidence that locally produced Plateau potatoes will soon compete globally, assuring businesses they can source high-quality supplies from the state.

He stressed that legacy is measured not by physical structures but by improved welfare and increased purchasing power for citizens.

Disease-free seed materials distributed at the event are strictly for multiplication to boost future yields.

Key highlights of the Potato Value Chain Support Project (PS-PVCSP) include:

- A state-of-the-art Tissue Culture Laboratory for disease-free seed production.

- Construction of 118.4 km of rural roads and culverts.

- Nine community markets and diffuse light storage facilities.

- Water harvesting structures and spring captures for year-round farming.

- Three potato processing plants across Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi.

- Training and empowerment of thousands of farmers with improved seeds, equipment, and agribusiness skills.

Commissioner for Agriculture Samson Bugama hailed it as the start of the “Plateau Potato Revolution,” while project partners noted significant early impacts, including training of community seed producers and planting on dozens of hectares.

The Mangu community’s donation of land was warmly acknowledged.

Plateau State, particularly areas like Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu, accounts for a substantial share of Nigeria’s potato output.

This project builds on the state’s natural advantages—fertile highland soils and favorable climate—to drive mechanization, reduce post-harvest losses, and position the region as a continental leader in potato agribusiness.

Governor Mutfwang urged farmers to adopt improved varieties, cooperatives, and mechanized practices to overcome production challenges and diseases.

He projected a transformed potato story on the Plateau within three to five years, with ripple effects on employment, youth engagement in agriculture, and broader economic growth.

Complementary investments in markets and training centres are expected to cement Mangu’s role as an emerging industrial hub.

This development comes at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to strengthen food security, reduce import dependence, and harness agriculture for inclusive economic development.

For Plateau State, the Potato Value Chain Project represents more than infrastructure—it embodies a strategic bet on turning comparative agricultural advantage into tangible prosperity for farmers, processors, and communities.

As the Tissue Culture Lab begins operations and value-added products reach markets and schools, many will be watching to see if this “Plateau Potato Revolution” delivers on its ambitious promise of industrialization and improved livelihoods.