In a broadcast marking his first year in office on May 29, 2024, Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang reflected on the challenges and achievements of his administration. He highlighted the resilience and determination that have guided his leadership amid significant obstacles.
Governor Mutfwang began by recounting the formidable challenges faced during his initial year. The state grappled with persistent security threats in several local government areas, legal battles questioning the legitimacy of his mandate, and the adverse effects of a prolonged civil service strike. Additionally, the administration inherited a staggering debt burden, while critical sectors such as healthcare and education demanded urgent attention.
“In the face of adversity, we refused to falter,” Governor Mutfwang stated. He credited the administration’s success to the unwavering support of the people and divine guidance. “If it had not been the Lord, we would not have reached here. Therefore, we say thank you, Lord.”
The administration is enhancing security by reactivating Operation Rainbow, retraining over 600 personnel, and launching the State Security and Information Center for citizen reporting.
“Our efforts have led to the home return of our Internally Displaced Persons, ensuring they return to lands that await their toil and harvest without hitches,” the Governor noted.
The Supreme Court’s ruling on the administration’s mandate was a significant legal victory, demonstrating the support of Plateau’s citizens and promoting a harmonious labor relationship.
Infrastructure improvements have been made in Nigeria, with numerous road networks constructed and rehabilitated, and the Tin City Metro initiative introduced 15 modern buses. Work on the Utonkon-Nunku-Keana link road and a flyover bridge is ongoing.
Governor Mutfwang has emphasized improvements in education, including revitalization of public schools, tuition reduction, classroom renovation, borehole drilling, increased scholarship funding, and strategic partnerships with foreign universities.
The administration is implementing agricultural initiatives, including purchasing fertilizers, training youth, and developing 4,000 hectares of land for key crop zones, collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
The Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Agency (PS-DMCMA) is revitalizing healthcare procurement and distribution, with projects at Plateau State Specialist Hospital including an abandoned laboratory complex and emergency pediatric unit construction.
Governor Mutfwang’s administration is enhancing civil service productivity through dialogue with labor unions, timely salary payments, and addressing outstanding gratuities and pensions, along with extensive training programs.
As he concluded his address, Governor Mutfwang called for unity among the people of Plateau State. “The time has come, and the time is now to set aside our ethnic and religious differences and bond together as a people with one destiny in building a peaceful and harmonious state for all.”
Expressing his deepest gratitude, he affirmed, “We will never take your unwavering support for granted. May God continue to bless Plateau State, and may He guide us as we strive for a brighter tomorrow.”
Governor Mutfwang’s address underscored a year of resilience, significant achievements in security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare, and a call for continued unity and progress in Plateau State.
