Plateau State has faced relentless security challenges for decades, but Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang is on a mission to change the narrative—with bold new strategies in security, infrastructure, and community empowerment shaping a hopeful future.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State recently opened up about his determined quest to bring safety and transformation to the region. In an exclusive chat with the Nigerian Guild of Editors, he outlined a multi-faceted approach aimed at tackling security woes, reviving tourism, and boosting the economy. Unlike some northern states plagued by permanent bandit camps, Plateau’s insecurities come from unexpected, hit-and-run attacks across complex border lines. The recent Bokkos massacre was a dark reminder of the challenges, with entire communities displaced. To counter this, Governor Mutfwang has deployed drones for surveillance and is launching Operation Rainbow, training 1,450 young local operatives to reclaim and secure the state’s vast terrains. He also voiced strong support for state police, highlighting the need for localized command structures to better tackle threats. Infrastructure receives top priority too, with the Akwanga–Jos Road now officially a presidential legacy project. A four-lane upgrade is in the pipeline, critical for trade, tourism, and connecting the North-East. On tourism, the state is partnering with the UNDP to craft a Tourism Master Plan, aimed at unlocking Plateau’s massive potential as Nigeria’s premier tourist destination.
Addressing Plateau’s long-standing crises, Governor Mutfwang promised meaningful action on the General Rogers-led fact-finding committee’s recommendations, vowing never to let reports gather dust. With land grabbing and communal violence at the heart of many conflicts, his administration is opening access roads, enhancing rapid security deployment, and crafting legislative solutions.
He also tackled economic challenges, sharing how the Plateau Commodities Marketing Company is supporting farmers through price stabilization and value-added processing projects. Recognizing Jos as one of Nigeria’s most expensive cities, plans for new civil service housing estates aim to ease housing shortages.
On inclusivity, the governor stands firm on gender parity, with women occupying key government roles and the PDP encouraged to empower women beyond token roles. Religious and ethnic divides, like the Angwan Rogo “Wall of Jericho,” are being addressed with a commitment to unity and fairness for all faiths.
The state’s environmental woes from illegal mining are being tackled through suspensions, environmental laws, and community cooperatives. Efforts to revive Plateau’s once-flourishing horticulture and agro-exports are underway, inspired by international best practices to boost yields and processing.
Governor Mutfwang’s partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) highlights a data-driven approach to security and governance. Politically, he remains grounded in faith and integrity, committed to his role as Plateau’s leader regardless of the shifting political landscape.
With these bold steps, Plateau State is charting a new course toward peace, prosperity, and progress.
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