By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Plateau State government and Oil and Chemical International, a member of the Duncan Group of companies, to set up a 40 tonnes fertiliser blending plant in Foron in Barkin Ladi local government area of the state.
Signing the deal on behalf of the state government, Commissioner of Commerce, Ezekiel Daju, disclosed that the move was another milestone in the Governor Simon Lalong’s-led administration in diversifying economy of the state, especially when federal allocation has dropped drastically.
He described the deal as laudable, saying it would boost the economy of the state. He said fertiliser remains an important item for farmers.
“As we all know, most citizens of our state are farmers and fertiliser is an essential ingredient in Agriculture.
“Due to the fallen price of oil, the state government has keyed into diversification and our Governor, Simon Lalong has vowed to transform the Agriculture sector in order to boost food production and the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state,” Mr Daju said.
The Commissioner said when completed, plant would create jobs for teeming youths and also boost food production in the state.
He remarked that, “This is the beginning of good and people oriented projects that would happen under the Rescue Administration of Governor Simon Lalong. He is committed to delivering dividends of democracy to the people of the state.”
Modupe Gbadeyanka 
Adedapo Adesanya