Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has defended the performance of his administration at its three-year mark, declaring that the state is gradually overcoming insecurity, economic hardship, and political instability despite persistent attacks and humanitarian challenges.
In a statewide broadcast to commemorate his third anniversary in office on Friday, Mutfwang said his administration inherited a state weighed down by insecurity, institutional decline, and loss of public confidence, but insisted that his government had laid a solid foundation for recovery and long-term development.
“Plateau is rising again. Hope is being restored, confidence in governance is gradually returning, and the dream of a peaceful, united, secure, and prosperous Plateau is becoming a visible reality,” the governor declared.
The governor acknowledged that the last three years had been particularly difficult for the state, citing recurring attacks on communities, displacement of residents, economic strain, and prolonged legal battles challenging his electoral mandate.
“At this historic moment, I pay heartfelt tribute to our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives in the tragic and senseless attacks perpetrated by enemies of peace and progress,” he said.
Mutfwang also defended his controversial political transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a strategic decision aimed at ensuring political stability and advancing Plateau’s long-term interests.
“This decision was not taken recklessly, but was carefully guided by our unwavering commitment to the collective growth, political stability, and long-term progress of Plateau State,” he stated.
The governor used the anniversary address to present what he described as tangible gains recorded under his administration across security, infrastructure, transportation, education, agriculture, healthcare, and civil service reforms.
According to him, the government revitalised Operation Rainbow, recruited over 2,000 community volunteers to strengthen intelligence gathering, and established a modern surveillance and emergency communications system to improve response to security threats.
He further disclosed that plans were underway to rebuild communities affected by violent attacks and resettle internally displaced persons across parts of Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Mangu, and Bokkos local government areas.
On governance reforms, Mutfwang said his administration had cleared inherited salary arrears, restored regular promotion of civil servants, and committed over N16 billion to pensions and gratuities, including outstanding liabilities dating back to 1986.
The governor also highlighted achievements in transportation and education, including the launch of the Tin City Metro Transport Service, reduction of tuition fees by 50 per cent in state-owned tertiary institutions, and expansion of scholarship opportunities for Plateau students studying within and outside Nigeria.
He said ongoing road projects, water schemes, rural electrification programmes, and tourism infrastructure upgrades were all part of efforts to reposition Plateau for economic growth and investment.
While appealing for patience from communities yet to benefit from government projects, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive development.
“Certainly, we have not yet reached the mountaintop, but we are no longer in the valley,” he said.
Mutfwang also reaffirmed his administration’s hardline stance against violence, reprisals, cattle rustling, destruction of farmlands, and other activities capable of threatening public peace.
He urged citizens to remain united and continue supporting government efforts aimed at rebuilding Plateau State.
“Together, we shall continue to walk this path with courage, hope in our hearts, and unwavering faith in our future,” he added.
