Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous, and economically vibrant state, highlighting significant achievements in security, infrastructure, civil service reforms, agriculture, mining, tourism, healthcare, and education over the past three years.
The governor made the remarks during the #2027Conversations Democracy Day Town Hall Meeting held in Jos on June 12, 2026, where citizens, stakeholders, government officials, youth groups, and civil society organizations gathered to engage on issues of governance, accountability, and democratic development.
Describing democracy as the foundation of freedom, accountability, citizen participation, and good governance, Mutfwang said the progress recorded by his administration was made possible by the mandate freely given by the people of Plateau State.
Reflecting on his journey in public service, the governor described himself as a beneficiary of democracy and stressed that his administration has remained committed to transparency, accountability, integrity, compassion, and responsible leadership.
He outlined efforts undertaken to address insecurity, including the revitalization of Operation Rainbow, the deployment of over 2,000 community-based intelligence personnel, improved collaboration with security agencies, and the establishment of emergency response channels across vulnerable communities.
The governor also highlighted reforms that have increased Plateau State’s Internally Generated Revenue from less than ₦1 billion monthly in 2023 to between ₦3 billion and ₦3.5 billion monthly, while disclosing that his administration has paid over ₦20 billion in pensions and gratuities and cleared significant salary arrears inherited from previous administrations.
Mutfwang further pointed to ongoing investments in agriculture, mining, tourism, healthcare, education, transportation, and youth development as part of efforts to diversify the state’s economy and improve the living standards of citizens.
As part of activities marking Democracy Day 2026, the governor announced the grant of absolute pardon to four inmates — Nanchang Ramyil, Sale Ayuba, Abdullahi Haruna A. Yusuf, and John Monday — describing the gesture as a reflection of his administration’s commitment to justice, rehabilitation, mercy, and human dignity.
Earlier in his opening remarks, Convener of Verified Conversations, Mr. Samson Omale, said the #2027Conversations initiative was established to encourage responsible leadership and deepen citizen participation in governance.
Omale explained that the platform, which began in 2021, has evolved into a movement focused on accountability and constructive public engagement.
“Today’s conversation is not about politics, political parties, or campaigns. It is about governance and leadership. We are here to ask questions, demand answers, and create a platform where citizens can directly engage those entrusted with public responsibility,” he said.
According to him, the initiative seeks to inform, connect, and empower citizens through structured dialogue while strengthening civic engagement and accountability in public service.
Also speaking, Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, , described the town hall meeting as a practical demonstration of democratic values and active citizenship.
She congratulated Nigerians on Democracy Day and noted that despite various challenges, the country’s democratic journey has continued to advance through the resilience and commitment of its citizens.
Ramnap said the ministry supported the initiative because it provides an independent platform for citizens to assess government performance, engage public officials, and contribute to policy discussions and development efforts.
“What we are witnessing here today is democracy in action. This platform gives citizens the opportunity to participate in governance, engage leaders, demand accountability, and contribute to the development of our state. That is the true essence of democracy,” she stated.
A major highlight of the event was a panel discussion titled “Unpacking the Governor’s Democracy Day Keynote on Strengthening Democracy Through Inclusive Governance and Citizens’ Participation.”
The session featured discussions by , , , , and .
Moderated by , the panel examined key issues raised in the governor’s address and explored ways of strengthening transparency, accountability, inclusive governance, and citizen participation.
Participants emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue between government and citizens as a critical tool for deepening democracy, strengthening institutions, improving service delivery, and promoting sustainable development in Plateau State.
