Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has declared that no local government area (LGA) in the state is under the control of bandits or terrorists, highlighting significant progress in his administration’s efforts to restore security and foster development across the state.
The announcement was made during an interactive media session with journalists, bloggers, and social media influencers at the Twin Theatre of the New Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos, on Tuesday.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized that, despite occasional attacks in areas such as Riyom, Bokkos, Bassa, Kanam, and Mangu, his government’s proactive security measures have ensured that no LGA remains under bandit control.
“Plateau is safer than many other North-Central states today. Opportunistic attacks may still occur, but our responses have averted worse outcomes,” he stated, noting that areas like Wase and Kanam, previously affected by banditry, have been reclaimed, including a key grazing reserve now secured for agricultural investment.
The governor attributed these gains to the revitalization of Operation Rainbow, the state’s security outfit, and the work of a security committee established upon his inauguration on May 29, 2023.
He also reiterated his advocacy for state police, arguing that the current system, where security directives require federal approval, hampers swift action. “I gave a directive, but the GOC or Police Commissioner won’t act without Abuja’s permission. That’s why I advocate state police,” Mutfwang said, dismissing concerns about potential misuse as a “lazy argument.”
Beyond security, Mutfwang outlined his administration’s achievements in economic and infrastructural development.
He highlighted the Metro Bus Scheme, which saves commuters up to ₦50,000 monthly, and the resumption of rail services in partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to ease transportation costs.
Plans to upgrade Yakubu Gowon Airport into a Cargo International Airport are also underway. In education, Plateau State Polytechnic has doubled enrollment, and Plateau State University has regained accreditation for key courses, including its Faculty of Medicine.
The governor also addressed criticisms from groups like the Plateau State Muslim Indigenes (PSMI), who accused him of selective empathy toward Christian communities.
Mutfwang refuted claims of marginalization, stressing that his administration’s urban renewal projects, including over 30 completed road projects, are distributed equitably across religious and ethnic lines. “We’re not selective. Our projects touch all groups – Christian, Muslim, and mixed – because we believe in inclusive development,” he said.
Mutfwang acknowledged past security failures, referencing deadly attacks in Zikke and Kimakpa in Bassa LGA in April 2025, where over 50 lives were lost.
He apologized to affected communities, vowing to rebuild and urging residents to remain vigilant. “We are more determined than ever to ensure no more innocent blood is shed on the Plateau,” he said.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the media as “critical partners” in Plateau’s transformation, emphasizing that the state is on course to become “economically vibrant, socially cohesive, and globally competitive.”
