HOW NOISELESS GOVERNANCE ENRICHES PLATEAU STATE

The Peoples Democratic Party’s governor of Plateau state is a young, upwardly mobile legal practitioner. Since taking office slightly over a year ago, he has carved a niche for himself as a political leader whose leadership style is totally devoid of NOISE MAKING. You could even think that he must have held the position of class prefect during his high school career whereby he must have become accustomed to compiling names of recalcitrant noise makers amongst his class mates.

Aside this joke, this writer is honestly impressed that the Plateau State governor doesnt really believe in shouting from the rooftops and engaging in self adulation like most politicians in Nigeria do, but he has paid meticulous attention to details in the implementation and execution of salient economic development initiatives targeted at lifting the Plateau state people and residents into their best selves. The Plateau state governor has provided clarity to what it means to be an impactful leader. Within less than two years, the good people of Plateau State have actually been inundated with massive developmental projects that are unprecedented in scale.

In just over a year and a half of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s leadership in Plateau State, his administration has emerged as a beacon of transformation. His governance style illustrates that meticulous planning, prudent resource management, and a deep-rooted sense of altruism can bring lasting benefits to governance. The foundation laid by his policies across multiple sectors has boosted the state’s economic outlook and rekindled hope among the people. These milestones, if sustained, could stand the test of time and serve as a model for other state administrations.

Governor Mutfwang’s first eighteen months in office have demonstrated his strong commitment to critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, transportation, security, and education. His administration has redefined Plateau’s trajectory through strategic partnerships and policy-driven governance. His peace-building efforts, in particular, deserve commendation. Moreover, his legacy could grow even more impactful with a stronger focus on human capacity building and sports development, setting the state on a progressive path for future generations.

Governor Mutfwang began his tenure with ambitious goals, focusing on revitalizing Plateau State’s infrastructure and enhancing its economic viability. His administration’s partnership with ValueJets, which introduced regular flights between Jos and Lagos, and the revitalization of rail transport in collaboration with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, opened new economic corridors. These initiatives have aimed at attracting investments, stimulating commerce, and improving tourism, while simultaneously creating jobs across various sectors such as construction, engineering, and customer service.

In particular, the introduction of the “Tin City Metro” bus initiative has eased urban transportation in Jos, providing a reliable, modern transit system equipped with advanced features like secure card payment and video surveillance, improving safety and efficiency for residents. These projects reflect the governor’s determination to modernize transportation across the state.

One of the administration’s standout achievements has been the significant improvement of Plateau’s infrastructure. Roads and bridges are critical to the functioning of any thriving economy, facilitating commerce, communication, and access to essential services. Under Governor Mutfwang’s leadership, Plateau State has witnessed remarkable progress in road construction and rehabilitation. Key road projects, such as the Farin Gada-Gada Biyu-Polo Roundabout and the Gold and Base Roundabout-Rayfield road, have enhanced connectivity within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis, making transportation more efficient and safer for both residents and businesses.

These infrastructural efforts have not only eased transportation but also fostered economic activities by reducing travel time and improving access to markets, healthcare, and educational facilities. The ongoing construction of the 9km span flyover bridge represents Governor Mutfwang’s forward-thinking approach to infrastructure, which is laying the foundation for future growth and development.

However, while these infrastructural achievements are impressive, there is still potential for improvement in human capacity building. The expansion of technical and vocational education is crucial for equipping Plateau’s youth with the skills required for the state’s evolving economy. Establishing more centers of excellence in education and vocational training would prepare future generations to take advantage of emerging industries and contribute to sustainable development.

One of the most pressing challenges that Governor Mutfwang inherited was the issue of insecurity. Plateau State, long troubled by communal violence and terrorist activities, required a leadership approach that combined both firmness and compassion. Governor Mutfwang’s response to the tragic attacks in Mangu, where over 100 lives were lost, highlighted his commitment to addressing the state’s security challenges head-on. His visit to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps within days of taking office demonstrated his compassionate leadership and willingness to engage directly with those affected by violence.

The Governor’s collaboration with national security agencies and the redeployment of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Third Armoured Brigade demonstrated his tactical approach to security. His administration also reactivated the state-owned security outfit, Operation Rainbow, which has bolstered the state’s security infrastructure at the community level. The creation of a State Security and Information Center, complete with a toll-free line, has empowered residents to report security concerns swiftly, improving the state’s ability to respond to threats promptly.

Governor Mutfwang’s efforts have already brought a degree of relative peace to the state, but there is more to be done. To build on this progress, Governor Mutfwang could focus on youth empowerment as a long-term solution to insecurity. Initiatives centered around education and sports development can help divert young people from the lure of crime and violence. By investing in sports infrastructure and developing community-level programs, the Governor can foster unity across Plateau’s diverse communities while also encouraging positive outlets for the state’s youth.

Sports have the potential to serve as a powerful tool for both personal and community development. The creation of regional sports academies, along with the organization of inter-community sporting events, could strengthen relationships among different groups within the state and help promote lasting peace.

Another major achievement of Governor Mutfwang’s administration is the revitalization of the Plateau State healthcare system. His administration has successfully revived the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Agency (PS-DMCMA), which now ensures the efficient procurement and distribution of medical supplies to hospitals and clinics throughout the state. This has greatly improved access to essential medications, which were previously in short supply.

Investments in the Plateau Specialist Hospital, including the recruitment of 22 medical consultants across various specialties such as cardiology, pediatrics, and surgery, signal the administration’s dedication to improving healthcare delivery. Additionally, the deployment of a state-of-the-art Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system demonstrates Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to modernizing the state’s healthcare infrastructure. This EMR system will enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery, ensuring patients receive timely and well-coordinated care.

Governor Mutfwang’s attention to civil servants’ welfare, particularly the consistent payment of salaries and pensions, has also played a significant role in revitalizing the public sector. His administration’s efforts to clear the backlog of five months’ unpaid salaries have been particularly impactful in restoring the trust of government workers, who are essential to the smooth functioning of public services.

Despite these gains, there remains a need to expand human capacity development in the healthcare sector. Training initiatives aimed at healthcare professionals, particularly in specialized areas like emergency response, maternal care, and infectious diseases, would help strengthen the state’s healthcare system. Governor Mutfwang could further support this by investing in continuous medical education and healthcare infrastructure upgrades to meet international standards.

Governor Mutfwang’s administration has also made significant strides in agricultural development. Recognizing Plateau State’s rich agricultural potential, the administration has distributed over N3.6 billion worth of fertilizers for dry-season farming and supported farmers with inputs for maize, rice, and wheat production. These efforts have strengthened food security and diversified the state’s agricultural base, benefiting thousands of local farmers.

In addition to promoting agriculture, Governor Mutfwang has shown a strong commitment to environmental protection. Upon taking office, he declared an environmental state of emergency, launching an ambitious sanitation program to clean up the streets of Jos and Bukuru. These sanitation efforts, coupled with wage increases for female street cleaners, have restored cleanliness and order to the state’s urban areas, reducing the risk of public health issues related to poor sanitation.

Governor Mutfwang’s environmental initiatives reflect his recognition that a clean and healthy environment is essential for the overall well-being of Plateau’s citizens. This attention to environmental sustainability should be sustained and expanded to address waste management challenges more effectively. Encouraging eco-friendly practices such as recycling, composting, and responsible waste disposal could help Plateau State maintain its clean and healthy environment for future generations.

At the heart of Governor Mutfwang’s leadership has been a deep commitment to peace-building. His early outreach to displaced persons, coupled with his coordination of relief efforts in partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has been instrumental in providing solace to those affected by violence and displacement. Governor Mutfwang’s engagement with local elders, community leaders, and security agencies has been vital in fostering a fragile but essential period of relative peace across Plateau State.

His peace-building strategies, particularly his focus on community dialogue and reconciliation, offer a model for other state administrations in Nigeria. By prioritizing community-led initiatives and institutionalizing peace-building mechanisms, Governor Mutfwang has laid the foundation for long-term stability in Plateau State. His administration’s approach to peace-building is one that other states can emulate, particularly those facing similar challenges of communal conflict and insecurity.

As Governor Caleb Mutfwang enters the second half of his first term, it is clear that his meticulous planning, prudent resource management, and altruistic approach to governance have placed Plateau State on a path toward sustainable development. His administration’s achievements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, and agriculture are a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership.

To ensure continued prosperity, Governor Mutfwang must maintain a strong focus on human capacity building and sports development. These areas hold the potential to empower Plateau’s youth and foster greater unity across its diverse communities. With sustained investment in human capacity and peace-building initiatives, Plateau State will remain a beacon of hope and stability in Nigeria.

The Plateau model, crafted by Governor Mutfwang, serves as a blueprint for other Nigerian states to follow. His success thus far reminds us that with visionary leadership, even the most complex challenges can be overcome, paving the way for a brighter future for all.

Emmanuel Onwubiko is head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and was NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA

HOW NOISELESS GOVERNANCE ENRICHES PLATEAU STATE

By Emmanuel Onwubiko

The Peoples Democratic Party’s governor of Plateau state is a young, upwardly mobile legal practitioner. Since taking office slightly over a year ago, he has carved a niche for himself as a political leader whose leadership style is totally devoid of NOISE MAKING. You could even think that he must have held the position of class prefect during his high school career whereby he must have become accustomed to compiling names of recalcitrant noise makers amongst his class mates.

Aside this joke, this writer is honestly impressed that the Plateau State governor doesnt really believe in shouting from the rooftops and engaging in self adulation like most politicians in Nigeria do, but he has paid meticulous attention to details in the implementation and execution of salient economic development initiatives targeted at lifting the Plateau state people and residents into their best selves. The Plateau state governor has provided clarity to what it means to be an impactful leader. Within less than two years, the good people of Plateau State have actually been inundated with massive developmental projects that are unprecedented in scale.

In just over a year and a half of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s leadership in Plateau State, his administration has emerged as a beacon of transformation. His governance style illustrates that meticulous planning, prudent resource management, and a deep-rooted sense of altruism can bring lasting benefits to governance. The foundation laid by his policies across multiple sectors has boosted the state’s economic outlook and rekindled hope among the people. These milestones, if sustained, could stand the test of time and serve as a model for other state administrations.

Governor Mutfwang’s first eighteen months in office have demonstrated his strong commitment to critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, transportation, security, and education. His administration has redefined Plateau’s trajectory through strategic partnerships and policy-driven governance. His peace-building efforts, in particular, deserve commendation. Moreover, his legacy could grow even more impactful with a stronger focus on human capacity building and sports development, setting the state on a progressive path for future generations.

Governor Mutfwang began his tenure with ambitious goals, focusing on revitalizing Plateau State’s infrastructure and enhancing its economic viability. His administration’s partnership with ValueJets, which introduced regular flights between Jos and Lagos, and the revitalization of rail transport in collaboration with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, opened new economic corridors. These initiatives have aimed at attracting investments, stimulating commerce, and improving tourism, while simultaneously creating jobs across various sectors such as construction, engineering, and customer service.

In particular, the introduction of the “Tin City Metro” bus initiative has eased urban transportation in Jos, providing a reliable, modern transit system equipped with advanced features like secure card payment and video surveillance, improving safety and efficiency for residents. These projects reflect the governor’s determination to modernize transportation across the state.

One of the administration’s standout achievements has been the significant improvement of Plateau’s infrastructure. Roads and bridges are critical to the functioning of any thriving economy, facilitating commerce, communication, and access to essential services. Under Governor Mutfwang’s leadership, Plateau State has witnessed remarkable progress in road construction and rehabilitation. Key road projects, such as the Farin Gada-Gada Biyu-Polo Roundabout and the Gold and Base Roundabout-Rayfield road, have enhanced connectivity within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis, making transportation more efficient and safer for both residents and businesses.

These infrastructural efforts have not only eased transportation but also fostered economic activities by reducing travel time and improving access to markets, healthcare, and educational facilities. The ongoing construction of the 9km span flyover bridge represents Governor Mutfwang’s forward-thinking approach to infrastructure, which is laying the foundation for future growth and development.

However, while these infrastructural achievements are impressive, there is still potential for improvement in human capacity building. The expansion of technical and vocational education is crucial for equipping Plateau’s youth with the skills required for the state’s evolving economy. Establishing more centers of excellence in education and vocational training would prepare future generations to take advantage of emerging industries and contribute to sustainable development.

One of the most pressing challenges that Governor Mutfwang inherited was the issue of insecurity. Plateau State, long troubled by communal violence and terrorist activities, required a leadership approach that combined both firmness and compassion. Governor Mutfwang’s response to the tragic attacks in Mangu, where over 100 lives were lost, highlighted his commitment to addressing the state’s security challenges head-on. His visit to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps within days of taking office demonstrated his compassionate leadership and willingness to engage directly with those affected by violence.

The Governor’s collaboration with national security agencies and the redeployment of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Third Armoured Brigade demonstrated his tactical approach to security. His administration also reactivated the state-owned security outfit, Operation Rainbow, which has bolstered the state’s security infrastructure at the community level. The creation of a State Security and Information Center, complete with a toll-free line, has empowered residents to report security concerns swiftly, improving the state’s ability to respond to threats promptly.

Governor Mutfwang’s efforts have already brought a degree of relative peace to the state, but there is more to be done. To build on this progress, Governor Mutfwang could focus on youth empowerment as a long-term solution to insecurity. Initiatives centered around education and sports development can help divert young people from the lure of crime and violence. By investing in sports infrastructure and developing community-level programs, the Governor can foster unity across Plateau’s diverse communities while also encouraging positive outlets for the state’s youth.

Sports have the potential to serve as a powerful tool for both personal and community development. The creation of regional sports academies, along with the organization of inter-community sporting events, could strengthen relationships among different groups within the state and help promote lasting peace.

Another major achievement of Governor Mutfwang’s administration is the revitalization of the Plateau State healthcare system. His administration has successfully revived the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Agency (PS-DMCMA), which now ensures the efficient procurement and distribution of medical supplies to hospitals and clinics throughout the state. This has greatly improved access to essential medications, which were previously in short supply.

Investments in the Plateau Specialist Hospital, including the recruitment of 22 medical consultants across various specialties such as cardiology, pediatrics, and surgery, signal the administration’s dedication to improving healthcare delivery. Additionally, the deployment of a state-of-the-art Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system demonstrates Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to modernizing the state’s healthcare infrastructure. This EMR system will enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery, ensuring patients receive timely and well-coordinated care.

Governor Mutfwang’s attention to civil servants’ welfare, particularly the consistent payment of salaries and pensions, has also played a significant role in revitalizing the public sector. His administration’s efforts to clear the backlog of five months’ unpaid salaries have been particularly impactful in restoring the trust of government workers, who are essential to the smooth functioning of public services.

Despite these gains, there remains a need to expand human capacity development in the healthcare sector. Training initiatives aimed at healthcare professionals, particularly in specialized areas like emergency response, maternal care, and infectious diseases, would help strengthen the state’s healthcare system. Governor Mutfwang could further support this by investing in continuous medical education and healthcare infrastructure upgrades to meet international standards.

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Governor Mutfwang’s administration has also made significant strides in agricultural development. Recognizing Plateau State’s rich agricultural potential, the administration has distributed over N3.6 billion worth of fertilizers for dry-season farming and supported farmers with inputs for maize, rice, and wheat production. These efforts have strengthened food security and diversified the state’s agricultural base, benefiting thousands of local farmers.

In addition to promoting agriculture, Governor Mutfwang has shown a strong commitment to environmental protection. Upon taking office, he declared an environmental state of emergency, launching an ambitious sanitation program to clean up the streets of Jos and Bukuru. These sanitation efforts, coupled with wage increases for female street cleaners, have restored cleanliness and order to the state’s urban areas, reducing the risk of public health issues related to poor sanitation.

Governor Mutfwang’s environmental initiatives reflect his recognition that a clean and healthy environment is essential for the overall well-being of Plateau’s citizens. This attention to environmental sustainability should be sustained and expanded to address waste management challenges more effectively. Encouraging eco-friendly practices such as recycling, composting, and responsible waste disposal could help Plateau State maintain its clean and healthy environment for future generations.

At the heart of Governor Mutfwang’s leadership has been a deep commitment to peace-building. His early outreach to displaced persons, coupled with his coordination of relief efforts in partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has been instrumental in providing solace to those affected by violence and displacement. Governor Mutfwang’s engagement with local elders, community leaders, and security agencies has been vital in fostering a fragile but essential period of relative peace across Plateau State.

His peace-building strategies, particularly his focus on community dialogue and reconciliation, offer a model for other state administrations in Nigeria. By prioritizing community-led initiatives and institutionalizing peace-building mechanisms, Governor Mutfwang has laid the foundation for long-term stability in Plateau State. His administration’s approach to peace-building is one that other states can emulate, particularly those facing similar challenges of communal conflict and insecurity.

As Governor Caleb Mutfwang enters the second half of his first term, it is clear that his meticulous planning, prudent resource management, and altruistic approach to governance have placed Plateau State on a path toward sustainable development. His administration’s achievements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, and agriculture are a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership.

To ensure continued prosperity, Governor Mutfwang must maintain a strong focus on human capacity building and sports development. These areas hold the potential to empower Plateau’s youth and foster greater unity across its diverse communities. With sustained investment in human capacity and peace-building initiatives, Plateau State will remain a beacon of hope and stability in Nigeria.

The Plateau model, crafted by Governor Mutfwang, serves as a blueprint for other Nigerian states to follow. His success thus far reminds us that with visionary leadership, even the most complex challenges can be overcome, paving the way for a brighter future for all.

Emmanuel Onwubiko is head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and was NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA