WELCOME TO JOS, PLATEAU STATE

The Agricultural Economy of Plateau State is predominantly agrarian, covering an estimated land area of 53,585.89 sq. km, with about two-thirds of it being arable. Major food crops cultivated include Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, chili pepper, tomatoes, various vegetables, cereals, legumes, roots and tubers, and tree crops such as coffee, gum Arabic, cashew, citrus, mangoes, guava, and olives.

Livestock activities encompass cattle breeding & fattening, poultry production, sheep and goat breeding & fattening, quail production, turkey & rabbit production, and fish farming. The agricultural potential for supporting manufacturing activities remains largely untapped, hindering agro-industrial development. Notably, recent efforts on cassava and maize production indicate the untapped possibilities, with a focus on meeting the needs of poultry and livestock feeds.

The Geographical Distribution of Major Crops, Forest, and Livestock Products reveals that cereal crops represent 34%, root and tuber crops 32%, horticultural crops 21%, and forestry 13%. Irish potatoes dominate the root/tuber crops, while tomatoes lead the horticultural crops. Livestock production, particularly poultry (broilers & layers) and cattle breeding, takes precedence. There is potential for expansion in tree crops like coffee and tea due to Plateau’s unique climatic conditions.

Research indicates that major crops are widely grown across LGAs, with specific regions excelling in particular crops. For instance, Bassa, B/Ladi, Mikang, Shendam, Pankshin, Riyom, Wase, Jos East, Jos North, Kanke, Kanam, Langtang North, Langtang South, and Mangu excel in cereal crops. Quan Pan and Bokkos focus more on root/tuber crops. The production of horticultural crops is spread across LGAs, with tomatoes being the most predominant.

In livestock production, poultry (broilers & layers) leads, followed by cattle breeding. Sheep, goat, and fish farming are less prominent, with fish farming concentrated in LGAs with abundant mining ponds. Aquaculture is gradually gaining ground in the state. Overall, the agricultural economy holds significant untapped potential for diverse economic activities. Check out details of crops cultivated by each local government in the LGAs structure we have outlined

Flourishing as an agricultural powerhouse, Plateau State sees approximately 70% of its population engaged in farming. The fertile lands yield abundant harvests, supplying not only domestic needs but also thriving Agro-Allied industries.