Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has restated his administration’s commitment to academic excellence and merit-based recruitment into Plateau State’s tertiary institutions, insisting that only qualified individuals will be allowed to teach in the state’s colleges and polytechnics.
The Governor made this declaration on Thursday during the commissioning of new projects at the Plateau State Polytechnic, Jos Campus. The projects include a one-storey administrative block and the refurbished Joshua Dariye Hall, among other academic facilities.
While addressing the gathering, Governor Mutfwang took a moment to clarify his recent comments made regarding the cancellation of a controversial recruitment exercise.
His remarks had been widely misrepresented on social media, prompting public debate.“A few days ago, I made a comment regarding the recruitment exercise that was eventually canceled. I spoke in Hausa and said that one thing we will not compromise is academic quality,” he said.
“Unfortunately, some people went on social media and claimed I said Plateau youths are *‘dolaye’. But let me say this here—it is those who misinterpreted me that are the *dolaye*, because it shows the degree of their understanding.”
Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the state cannot afford to lower academic standards, particularly at a time when its institutions are striving for national relevance and global competitiveness.
“It is a known standard that to teach in a tertiary institution, you must have at least a Second Class Lower degree,” he noted. “Those who are not qualified to teach will not be allowed to teach our students.”
However, the Governor was quick to assure those employed through legitimate processes that their jobs were not at risk.
“Let me restate that everyone who was legitimately qualified and employed will remain employed. Whether you went to court or not is not the issue. As long as you are qualified to teach and we have space for you, your job is safe.”
He further cautioned against politicizing straightforward governance decisions and encouraged open dialogue for anyone who feels unjustly treated.
“Our doors are open. No one will be unfairly denied any entitlement they legitimately deserve,” he said.
The event also featured the Governor’s broader remarks on education, where he underscored infrastructure, leadership, and prudent resource management as the pillars for revitalizing higher learning in the state.
He expressed confidence in the Polytechnic’s management and pledged continued support, stating that his administration envisions the institution evolving into a University of Science and Technology within the next five years.
Governor Mutfwang’s comments mark a definitive stand on the ongoing conversation around recruitment, sending a clear message that while his administration remains open and responsive, the quality of education in Plateau State will not be compromised.
