In a bold move to strengthen governance and development in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s administration has unveiled a comprehensive reform agenda targeting the civil service, commerce, and land administration sectors. This was disclosed during a series of ministerial press briefings held at the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat in Jos, where heads of key ministries highlighted progress under the government’s “Time is Now” policy direction.
Civil Service Transformation
The Head of Civil Service, Mr. Stephen Pam Gadong, revealed sweeping reforms aimed at restoring professionalism and morale within the Plateau State Civil Service. Under the current administration, all outstanding salary arrears have been cleared, and consistent monthly salary payments are now the norm. In a significant step for retirees, the state has approved a monthly release of N400 million to settle pension and gratuity arrears dating as far back as 1986.
Gadong also announced the full implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage and upward review of pensions, with retirees who previously earned as little as N5,000 now receiving a minimum of N20,000. Over 4,000 newly recruited staff have undergone induction training, and a specialized workshop for 170 Executive Officers was recently conducted to enhance service delivery.
To address housing needs, the state has committed N372 million for land acquisition in Bassa LGA to commence a new civil service housing scheme. Gadong stressed that these efforts are designed to create a future-ready workforce in line with the administration’s agenda.
Promoting Transparency and Accountability
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, underscored the administration’s dedication to openness and citizen engagement. She described the ministerial briefing as a key tool to bridge the gap between government and citizens by promoting access to information and public accountability.
Despite security challenges, Ramnap noted that the Mutfwang-led government continues to prioritize physical development, peacebuilding, and economic reforms that reflect the people’s aspirations.
Boosting Commerce and Industry
The Ministry of Commerce, under Commissioner Hon. Nyalum M. Salisu, is implementing strategic initiatives to position Plateau as an economic powerhouse. These include the introduction of a digital platform for business registration, enabling entrepreneurs to register their premises remotely. The ministry has also partnered with financial institutions and universities to facilitate affordable credit for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Salisu highlighted significant progress in the export sector, with cooperatives and agricultural producers now accessing wider markets. Notable investments have emerged in the industrial sector, with facilities such as NASCO and Begging Bright Flour now producing up to 150 tons of flour daily.
In the informal sector, the ministry is working to standardize market infrastructure and has trained over 120 women and cooperatives to boost productivity and entrepreneurship. Salisu reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening public-private partnerships and broadening the state’s industrial base.
Gender-Inclusive and Digitally-Driven Land Reforms
At the Ministry of Lands, Survey, and Town Planning, Commissioner Hon. Peter Nyam Gai unveiled a landmark gender-inclusive initiative—free land registration forms for women in Plateau State. This policy, aimed at empowering women through land ownership, marks a significant step toward gender equity.
The ministry has also constructed a new office complex, featuring a state-of-the-art boardroom and a staff sickbay offering free treatment. Staff capacity is being enhanced through retreats and exposure to best practices in digital land systems.
In terms of revenue, the ministry has recorded remarkable growth, with internally generated revenue rising from N250 million to over N700 million in one year. As of May 19, 2024, it had already generated N418 million toward its N2.4 billion target for the year. The ministry is also implementing a systemic land titling initiative to replace outdated documents with tamper-proof digital certificates.
The achievements highlighted during the press briefings signal a government focused on action, not just promises. From modernizing the civil service and supporting small businesses to promoting gender inclusion and leveraging technology in governance, the Mutfwang administration is laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and inclusive development in Plateau State.
