Caleb Mutfwang, the governor of Plateau State has emphasised the government’s dedication to transparent and accountable leadership, as his principles for driving tangible progress across various key sectors of the economy.
In a state broadcast Wednesday in Jos, to mark his one year in office as the governor of the state, Mutfwang highlighted significant advancements in infrastructure development, healthcare provision, educational reform, agricultural enhancement, and the fight against insecurity during his administration’s first year in office.
These achievements according to him underscore the administration’s commitment to fostering holistic growth and development in Plateau State.
He explained that under his leadership, the state has witnessed notable improvements in infrastructure, focusing on enhancing roads, bridges, and public facilities to facilitate smoother transportation and connectivity for residents.
The governor noted that the government’s investments in infrastructure projects have aimed to boost economic activities and improve Plateau State’s citizens’ overall quality of life.
“Our commitment to transparent and accountable leadership has paved the way for tangible progress in infrastructure development, healthcare provision, educational reform, agricultural enhancement, and power generation.
“We have thus, constructed and rehabilitated quite several road networks within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis and beyond, transforming them into conduits of commerce, connectivity, and community cohesion.
“Notable among them are the Farin Gada-Gada Biyu-Polo Roundabout-Police Headquarters road, Gold and Base Roundabout-Rayfield, JUTH-Laminga-Tina Junction-Legislative Quarters; Plateau Hospital Roundabout-Hill Station Roundabout-Central Bank Road; Maternity-Moonshine Hotel-Chobe Junction; Liberty Boulevard- Maternity-Masallacin Juma’a-Zololo Junction; Ahmadu Bello Way- Kashim Ibrahim-West of Mines; Dadin Kowa Road Network; Yelwa Club Junction-Rahol Kanang-Du Junction and Sabon Barki Road among several others.
“In the same vein, work is ongoing on the 5.65km Utonkon-Nunku-Keana link road with the extension to the Akila Machunga road. The construction of the 9km span flyover bridge handled by PW Nig. Ltd will soon wear it asphalt coat thus bring to an end a tortuous wait of over 10 years”.
The governor added that In the realm of healthcare provision, the administration has taken steps to enhance healthcare services and facilities across the state. By prioritizing the well-being of residents, initiatives have been implemented to improve access to quality healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas.
In the area of educational reform, Mutfwang said it has been another key area of focus for the government, with policies aimed at improving the quality of education and expanding access to learning opportunities for all residents, saying that, efforts to revamp the educational system are expected to have a lasting impact on the future of Plateau State by empowering its youth through education.
The agricultural sector has also seen significant strides under Governor Mutfwang’s leadership, with initiatives implemented to enhance productivity, boost farmers’ incomes, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. These efforts are geared towards ensuring food security and fostering economic growth in the state’s agricultural sector.
“The health sector under my watch has received a lot of attention. We have revitalized the previously dormant Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Agency (PS-DMCMA). This central body is now responsible for the procurement, storage, distribution, and oversight of drugs and medical supplies in state-run hospitals and clinics, ensuring that essential medications are available, accessible, and affordable.
“At the Plateau State Specialist hospital, we have completed the construction of an abandoned Laboratory Complex and awarded a contract to equip the Laboratory with modern state-of –the arts equipment. We have also completed the construction of an abandoned Administrative building and emergency Paediatric unit. These among other giant strides are in fulfilment of our promises to make Plateau state a medical tourism destination”.
Mutfwang added” In the Civil Service, we are steadfast in our mission to revitalize the system to achieve exemplary service delivery. Through constructive dialogue with labour unions, we have successfully resolved prolonged strikes, setting the stage for enhanced productivity and progress. While the timely payment of salaries is a fundamental responsibility rather than an achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to the welfare of our workers. Efforts to address outstanding gratuities, death benefits, and pension backlogs dating back to 1986 commenced in December 2023. We pledge to continue these endeavours within the scope of our available resources.
“Our investment in the professional growth of our public servants through extensive training programs is a testament to our aspiration to cultivate a workforce that excels both nationally and internationally. In recognition of the invaluable contributions of our workers, we have implemented hazard allowances for healthcare professionals, adjusted salaries, facilitated promotions, and maintained transparent communication with union representatives across the state and at the Local Government level.
“Also, in anticipation of the adjustment in the national minimum wage, we proactively provided a monthly fuel subsidy of N12,000 to each state employee from September 2023 to March 2024. Additionally, we have conducted an upward review of repatriation allowances, burial expenses, pensions, and have implemented promotions, all aimed at motivating and appreciating our dedicated workforce”; he said.
