In a rare and impactful interactive session, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, engaged journalists, bloggers, publishers, and influencers across various media platforms in a media chat held at the Twin Theater, New Government House, Little Rayfield. The session, the second of its kind, provided a platform for open dialogue between the government and the media on pressing issues confronting the state and the achievements recorded so far.
Governor Mutfwang began by acknowledging the critical role of the media in governance, commending the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau Bloggers Association, Independent Publishers, and influencers for their patriotic and professional reportage. He emphasized that the essence of media is not to destroy, but to build, and expressed gratitude for their contributions in promoting transparency, accountability, and development in the state.
Reflecting on the state’s challenges since his administration took over on May 29, 2023, the Governor highlighted security as the foremost issue. He recalled that just two days after assuming office, a Security Council meeting was convened—the first in nearly a year—to assess the security situation. Although security threats persist, especially in volatile areas like Wase and Kanam, he stressed that proactive intelligence and military collaboration have prevented the state from descending into chaos. “There are no local governments in Plateau that are completely taken over by bandits,” he noted, contrasting the state’s relative stability with some parts of North Central and North West Nigeria.
Mutfwang also pointed out the reinvigoration of Operation Rainbow, a local security outfit, as a key support system to federal agencies. Despite some public complaints, he asserted that its impact is evident and the administration plans to strengthen it further.
Beyond security, Governor Mutfwang reiterated his commitment to transformational leadership. “We are not in office for political games. We are here to deliver,” he declared. He added that the administration has brought back hope to Plateau citizens through visible development, integrity in governance, and the restoration of trust in public institutions.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, in her remarks, praised the Governor for his inclusive and transparent leadership. She highlighted the ministry’s efforts to emulate the Governor’s openness, citing media tours and direct engagement with journalists to showcase infrastructural developments. “This administration has created an enabling environment that is attracting investors to the state,” she said, referencing major investments in the hospitality sector and upcoming projects like Chocolate City and market redevelopment. She added that leadership built on integrity assures investors of a safe and prosperous environment.
NUJ Plateau State Chairperson, Ayuku Pwaspo, described the media chat as timely and vital, given the state’s current struggles with insecurity. He commended the Governor’s empathy for affected communities and praised the administration’s resolve to move forward with infrastructural development despite challenges. He called for continued support for displaced persons and urged the government to address the longstanding infrastructural and staffing deficits at Plateau’s state-owned media organizations, including the Plateau Publishing Corporation and Plateau Radio Television Corporation.
“We commend your achievements and are proud that even the President acknowledged your leadership in Benue,” he added. Pwaspo pledged NUJ’s continued support in rebuilding Plateau State through ethical and impactful journalism.
Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, moderated the event, commending the Governor for his honesty and detailed account of the administration’s progress. He affirmed that the Governor’s remarks only scratched the surface of what the government has achieved, noting that even some officials are unaware of all the ongoing projects across the state. He appreciated the Governor for allowing such direct media interaction and announced a structured question-and-answer segment to give journalists an opportunity to engage meaningfully.
The media chat concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to deepen collaboration for the peace and progress of Plateau State.
