Plateau Begins `Elephant’ Grass Cultivation To Boost Livestock Farming

On Mar 4, 2025

Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau says he has allocated 30 hectares of land in Wase Local Government Area (LGA) for the cultivation of Napier Grass.

The napier grass, also known as Elephant Grass, is a key fodder crop primarily used to feed livestock in a cut-and-carry feeding system.

The governor, who announced this during his visit to the Wase Game Reserve on Tuesday, said the initiative aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing livestock development across the country.

Mutfwang added that the project would not only boost livestock farming but also reposition Plateau as a major player in the sector.

He further emphasised that the initiative would support local animal husbandry and enhance internal revenue generation through exports.

“With the vast expanse of land covering countless kilometers within the game reserve, Plateau has the potential to lead Nigeria in strengthening livestock development for both local consumption and international markets.

“I have come to inspect this vast grazing reserve in order to activate Mr President’s vision of developing Nigeria’s livestock economy.

“Here on the Plateau, we have a unique opportunity to take the lead in this sector; as part of the plan, 30 hectares of land have been earmarked for the cultivation of napier grass here in Wase,”he said.

The governor urged residents to align with the government’s vision, noting that boreholes and other essential facilities were being constructed to support large-scale cultivation of napier grass.

As part of his visit, he also inaugurated several key projects completed by the local administration in Wase.

These projects include an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre, accommodation for Corps members, and a TV/Radio station.

Additionally, the governor laid the foundation for the construction of a legislative quarters for the LGA.

NAN/Oyenike Oyeniyi