Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has issued a powerful message of hope and assurance to internally displaced persons (IDPs) within the state, reaffirming that they remain a priority for his administration despite the numerous challenges faced over the past two years. Speaking during a statewide broadcast marking his second year in office, the governor emphasized ongoing efforts to collaborate with the Federal Government and development partners aimed at resettling displaced communities and restoring normalcy.
Governor Mutfwang opened his address by acknowledging the legal hurdles and security crises that have tested Plateau State since his administration began. He stated, “My fellow citizens, the last two years have tested us. We faced legal distractions that sought to derail the mandate you freely gave us. We endured the pain of continued attacks on our rural communities, the burden of a broken economy, and the scars of many years of neglect.”
Despite these setbacks, the governor assured that the administration “did not falter” and is now witnessing “the signs of a new Plateau — the Plateau of our dream.” This declaration sets a tone of cautious optimism grounded in concrete actions.
On the security front, Mutfwang highlighted critical steps his government has taken to safeguard lives and properties. Working closely with federal authorities, the state has revitalized Operation Rainbow, a multi-agency security initiative designed to improve intelligence gathering and rapid response to threats.
He also announced the launch of a state-of-the-art Emergency Communications Centre equipped with a toll-free line to facilitate timely intervention across Plateau. Additionally, the establishment of the Plateau State Activity Centre, outfitted with modern surveillance technology, is a significant milestone aimed at boosting security operations across the region.
Beyond security, Governor Mutfwang detailed reforms in the civil service aimed at restoring dignity and motivation among public servants. His administration cleared a backlog of four and a half months’ salary arrears, resumed regular payments of salaries, gratuities, and pensions dating back to 1984, and restored promotions and training programs. Furthermore, reconnecting government offices to electricity has improved service delivery.
Economically, the governor underscored the success of the Tin City Metro transport service, which has revolutionized urban mobility in Jos and Bukuru, benefiting over 9,000 passengers daily with subsidized fares. Recently, the government expanded the bus fleet to 30 vehicles and enhanced interstate travel options with refurbished Toyota Sienna vehicles for the Jos–Abuja corridor.
Mutfwang also revealed a partnership with ValueJet Airlines to offer thrice-weekly flights connecting Jos, Abuja, and Lagos, a move that will ease transportation challenges and stimulate commerce. In cooperation with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, efforts to revive rail transport are nearing completion, promising further relief from the economic impact of fuel subsidy removal.
Agriculture, a backbone of Plateau’s economy, has witnessed renewed focus under Mutfwang’s leadership. The administration has reclaimed over 900 hectares of farmland previously abandoned by IDPs, distributing farming inputs worth ₦16 billion to boost productivity.
Hundreds of young farmers have been trained in modern agricultural practices through partnerships with institutions like the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan. Plans to establish agro-processing hubs with international collaborators aim to enhance value chains and industrialization, further diversifying the state’s economy.
The governor’s message also highlighted significant infrastructure projects. “Roads that had been neglected for decades are being rehabilitated,” Mutfwang assured, noting that approximately 111 kilometers of urban roads have been refurbished under the Urban Infrastructure Renewal Programme. Meanwhile, more than 3,000 kilometers of roads, started under previous administrations but left incomplete, are now actively being constructed.
Central to Mutfwang’s address was a heartfelt promise to displaced communities. “To every community that has suffered loss, I assure you that we have not forgotten you,” he said, underscoring ongoing collaborations with the Federal Government and donor agencies to provide relief, resettlement, and lasting peace.
The governor pledged continuous engagement with national authorities and international partners to ensure displaced persons receive justice and support to rebuild their lives and communities.
Closing his address, Governor Mutfwang expressed optimism about the state’s future, describing current achievements as foundational steps toward a just, united, and prosperous Plateau. “We are building a solid foundation for the Plateau of our dreams: a just, united, and prosperous State where every citizen has a sense of belonging and opportunity,” he stressed.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s second anniversary message paints a hopeful picture of Plateau State’s resilience and recovery. His administration’s multi-faceted approach — from enhanced security operations and civil service reforms to transport innovations and agricultural revitalization — reflects a commitment to improving the lives of all residents, especially the vulnerable IDP populations. As these efforts gain momentum, many Nigerians watch closely, hoping Plateau will indeed become the “Plateau of our dreams.”