Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s commitment to fostering strategic global partnerships has taken a significant step forward with the launch of the ‘Plateau Agro-Innovation Makerspace’, an initiative aimed at equipping young people with modern agricultural and technological skills.
Established through a collaboration between the ‘United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’ and the the state government, the high-tech facility is designed to drive youth empowerment, economic transformation, and sustainable development across the state.
Located atbPlateau State Polytechnic, Barkin-Ladi, the Makerspace will serve as a hub for advanced learning in agricultural innovation, technology-driven education, and renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power systems.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Mutfwang emphasised the importance of the initiative in harnessing the potential of Plateau’s youths, empowering them with the skills to create sustainable livelihoods.
“We are deeply grateful to UNDP, led by Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah, for piloting the Integrated Development Approach here in Plateau State.
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“This initiative will uplift our youths and connect them to global opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.”
Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to positioning Plateau as a hub for science, technology, and innovation, the governor urged young people to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the Makerspace.
“This is your opportunity. This is your moment. This is your time! I sincerely appreciate UNDP for this invaluable partnership, and I look forward to building a future where our young innovators thrive.”
In her remarks, UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, commended Governor Mutfwang’s leadership in creating a peaceful and conducive environment for innovation and economic transformation.
“We celebrate the 1.8 million talented, ambitious, and productive young people of Plateau. You are the architects of Plateau’s transformation, and you must take this responsibility seriously. The Governor has declared that the time is now for Plateau to shine, and that light will come from its young people.”
Ms Attafuah described the Makerspace as more than just a structure, calling it a “powerhouse of ideas” that will incubate businesses and revolutionize agriculture.
“This is not just a building. It is a hub packed with ideas—ideas that will evolve into businesses. It is a place that will equip entrepreneurs with the tools to build enterprises and redefine agriculture on the Plateau, shifting from subsistence farming to an agribusiness model with a strong value chain.”
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As part of efforts to enhance UNDP’s operations in the region, Governor Mutfwang also handed over Guest House Number 1 to the UNDP for use as its North Central office, ensuring the smooth implementation of development programmes in the region.
With this milestone, Plateau State is setting a precedent in youth empowerment, innovation, and economic transformation, marking the beginning of a future driven by technology, sustainability, and strategic global partnerships.
