The Office of the Executive Governor, through the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) Plateau State Office, organized a Stakeholders Meeting and Sensitization on the Renewed Hope Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (RH-GEEP 3.0). The event was held at the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA) Hall along Rayfield Road, Plateau State.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, development agencies, farmers associations, and community representatives. The aim of the meeting was to sensitize stakeholders on the objectives of the RH-GEEP 3.0 programme and to strengthen collaboration toward effective implementation of the initiative across the state.
In attendance were Mr. Dakye Wilfred Habila of the Ministry of Livestock Development; Dr. Cosmos Idiko, the State Coordinator of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC); Nde John Chindap Wuyep representing the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Plateau State Chapter; Mrs. Hilder Byenye, State Programme Manager of the Cash Transfer Unit, Plateau State; Mrs. Kaneng Tabitha Pam of the National Orientation Agency (NOA); His Royal Highness Da. Gyang Gutt, who represented His Royal Highness Da. Jacob Gyang Buba; as well as a representative of Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs).
Each of the dignitaries delivered goodwill messages highlighting the importance of the programme and their commitment to supporting its successful implementation.
In his goodwill message, Mr. Dakye Wilfred Habila of the Ministry of Livestock Development commended the initiative and emphasized the critical role livestock farmers play in ensuring food security and economic stability in the state. He encouraged livestock farmers to take advantage of the programme to improve productivity and expand their operations. Dr. Cosmos Idiko, the State Coordinator of the National Identity Management Commission, highlighted the importance of proper identity documentation in accessing government programmes. He encouraged participants to ensure they are properly enrolled in the national identity system to facilitate smooth verification and participation in empowerment programmes such as RH-GEEP 3.0. Representing the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Plateau State Chapter, Nde John Chindap Wuyep expresses deep appreciation to the Federal Government for prioritizing farmers in the empowerment programme. He assured that AFAN would mobilize its members across the state to take advantage of the opportunity provided by RH-GEEP 3.0. Mrs. Hilder Byenye, the State Programme Manager of the Cash Transfer Unit, Plateau State, emphasized the importance of social protection programmes in improving the livelihoods of vulnerable citizens. She noted that initiatives such as RH-GEEP complement existing social safety nets and contribute significantly to poverty reduction. Mrs. Kaneng Tabitha Pam of the National Orientation Agency reiterated the agency’s commitment to public awareness and community mobilization. She stressed that the NOA would continue to sensitize communities and ensure that accurate information about the programme reaches grassroots beneficiaries. His Royal Highness Da. Gyang Gutt, representing His Royal Highness Da. Jacob Gyang Buba, commended the government for engaging traditional institutions in development programmes. He assured that traditional rulers would support awareness efforts within their communities to ensure that eligible farmers benefit from the programme.
The representative of Persons Living with Disabilities appreciated the inclusive nature of the programme and called for continued consideration of persons with disabilities in government empowerment initiatives to ensure equal opportunities for all.
In her address, the State Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), Plateau State, Mrs. Mary C. Fom, stated that the Federal Government’s prioritization of social protection interventions as a strategy for reducing poverty and addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities remains critical to national development. She noted that social safety nets and empowerment programmes have been strategically implemented to support vulnerable populations and stimulate economic growth. Mrs. Fom also outlined the eligibility criteria for participation in the programme.
According to her, applicants must be Nigerian citizens residing in Plateau State and must be small-scale farmers engaged in activities such as crop production, poultry farming, aquaculture, or livestock rearing. Applicants are also required to belong to a registered cooperative or farmer group, possess a valid Bank Verification Number (BVN), and operate a verifiable farming location.
Delivering a keynote presentation, the Programme Manager, Mr. Le’an Jackse, provided a comprehensive overview of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme in Plateau State. His presentation covered the implementation progress report of GEEP 2.0, as well as the strategic direction and implementation plan for RH-GEEP 3.0.
Mr. Jackse further explained the policy rationale behind GEEP 3.0, emphasizing its role in expanding financial inclusion, strengthening small-scale enterprises, and supporting farmers and entrepreneurs across the country. He also detailed the disbursement process flow, outlining the steps beneficiaries would follow from registration and verification to approval and eventual disbursement of funds. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to collaborate effectively in ensuring the successful implementation of RH-GEEP 3.0 in Plateau State.
Participants expressed optimism that the programme would significantly enhance economic opportunities for farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs while contributing to poverty reduction and sustainable development in the state.
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