GOVERNOR Caleb Muftwang came into office faced with ceaseless political assaults and a plethora of ligations capable of blurring his focus until the Supreme Court ruling helped him weather the storm and affirmed his governorship of the state. He had an agenda to transform the state, which for more than two decades has been weighed down by insecurity, in different flanks.
Determined to change the negative narrative associated with the state, Governor Mutfwang has been intensifying efforts in various ways, and the most salient of his leadership trait is his quest for peace as an impetus for the development of the state.
Recall that on assumption of office, there were a series of crises precisely in the northern and central parts of the state where there were losses of lives and destruction of farms, and personal properties. Though at the moment there is relative peace in the troubled zones, the government recently initiated key advancements that would go a long way in addressing the critical areas of security.
The state no doubt has been plagued by intermittent terrorist attacks, particularly in rural areas where difficult terrain and limited accessibility have often hindered effective security operations. The security agencies have severally posited that one of the reasons they could not respond to an emergency in case of an attack was the terrain, which often delayed their interventions.
Worried by this postulation and the moves to mitigate the situation, the state government recently donated 100 motorcycles, raincoats, and rain boots to security personnel across the state to enable them to navigate the difficult and rough terrain in case there is an emergency.
The farmers, for quite some time, have been advocating for constant surveillance of their farms and communities, especially during farming and harvesting seasons.
Speaking on the development and other intervention by the state government, the Coordinator, Emancipation Centre for Crisis Victims in Nigeria (ECCVN), Barrister Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, said the move by the state government speaks volumes about the administration’s proactive approach to addressing security challenges.
While handing over the motorcycles and other equipment, Governor Mutfwang said the initiative was to enable security personnel to patrol troubled communities and safeguard farmers and their crops across the state, adding that his administration has made significant investments in technology to tackle insecurity in the state and promised more logistical support.
He said, “We have invested substantial resources in technology, and we know we have the capacity to monitor every nook and cranny of Plateau State. Our goal is to prepare the ground for effective responses, considering it is full of plateaus where vehicles and even ordinary motorcycles cannot go.
“This first batch of motorcycles will be used for round-the-clock surveillance to ensure our security forces provide protection for our farmers. We are focussing initially on areas under threat, including parts of the central and northern zones.
Speaking on behalf of other security executives on the ground, Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Plateau State Command, Mr. Alexander Barunde, assured the state government that the motorcycles would be used appropriately for the intended purposes, saying that farmers can now go to sleep.
A farmer declared, “The provision of these interventions is not merely a logistical enhancement but a bold step towards closing the security gap that has long threatened the safety and stability of the state. The gesture aimed at providing security surveillance to farmers in the rural communities to go about their lawful activities.
“Governor Mutfwang’s initiative to equip security agencies with these critical tools is a testament to his understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural communities. These areas, often the hardest hit by security breaches, will now benefit from enhanced surveillance and quicker response times. This is not just about providing equipment; it is about empowering those on the front lines to protect the most vulnerable with greater efficiency and effectiveness.”
Jo’s City Urban Renewal Project
Another area to which the governor recently showed commitment is the Jos City urban renewal. The administration took a decisive step towards transforming the urban landscape with the signing of Executive Order 003. This is aimed at regulating urban development and vehicular traffic.
Recognising this challenge posed by the traffic congestion, the Plateau State government undertook extensive stakeholder engagement and public awareness campaigns before implementing Executive Order 003.
The Executive Order introduces stringent measures aimed at regularising building construction, controlling traffic congestion, and preserving public infrastructure.
It lays out fines for unauthorised construction, regulates trading activities, prohibits unauthorised parking, and addresses other urban challenges that impede orderly development. These measures are not just about enforcement but also about creating an environment conducive to investment, tourism, and sustainable development.
Unfortunately, the enforcement of Executive Order 003 has not been without challenges. Recently, an unfortunate incident in Bukuru that claimed some lives and the loss of valuable properties highlighted the resistance faced by the government’s task force from criminal elements opposed to the reforms.
Despite this setback, Governor Mutfwang has condemned such acts unequivocally, emphasising that they jeopardise the state’s peace and development agenda.
Media coverage has played a critical role, both in supporting the government’s efforts and in amplifying dissenting voices.
While initial reports may have varied, the overarching goal remains clear: to inform the public accurately and comprehensively about the benefits and implications of urban renewal in Plateau State.
Looking forward, the Plateau State government remains committed to engaging with stakeholders, reinforcing the benefits of orderly urban development, and ensuring that every citizen plays a role in preserving the state’s future.
Governor Mutfwang’s leadership exemplifies a determined effort to break from the past and propel Plateau State towards a future defined by sustainable growth, prosperity, and civic responsibility.
As Plateau State continues on its path of renewal, Governor Mutfwang’s administration stands resolute in its pursuit of a more vibrant, organised, and secure urban environment that all residents can proudly call home.
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