The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang has commissioned 150 newly trained Agro-Rangers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in a bid to enhance security for farmers across Plateau State.
The Passing-Out Parade took place on Tuesday at Naton-Fursa in Jos East Local Government Area, marking the conclusion of the Agro-Rangers’ training programme.
Speaking at the event, Governor Mutfwang described the deployment as a strategic intervention designed to ensure food security and sovereignty in Nigeria. He noted that the 150 Agro-Rangers would join existing personnel to protect farmers and their produce in rural communities where security threats have disrupted agricultural activities.
“Our farms are critical national assets that must not only be protected but also cultivated to attain food security and sovereignty. The journey of farmers to and from the farms must be safe and secure if we are to guarantee food security for our nation,” the governor said.
He added that the agro-rangers were specifically trained to ensure the safety of farmers and prevent losses resulting from insecurity. “These agro-rangers have been trained to ensure that farmers can return home safely and that the fruits of their labour are not destroyed,” he said.
Mutfwang also praised the initiative as a vital complement to the work of conventional security agencies. “While our security forces continue to uphold the sovereignty and internal stability of the country, the agro-rangers initiative by the NSCDC is a timely and commendable response to the unique security needs of our agrarian communities,” he stated.
The governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the country’s security leadership for their support in addressing the state’s security concerns.
NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Audi, who also spoke at the event, said the newly commissioned agro-rangers represent the second batch deployed to Plateau State.
“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,” Audi affirmed.
