GOVERNOR MUTFWANG CALLS FOR CHURCH UNITY, CITIZEN VIGILANCE AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT TO BUILD A STRONGER PLATEAU

Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has called on Christians across Plateau State to deepen unity within the body of Christ, strengthen interdenominational fellowship, and work collectively to confront insecurity, poverty and other social challenges confronting the state.

The Governor made the call while addressing worshippers during a church service at ECWA Goodnews Church, Bukuru, in Jos South Local Government Area.

Governor Mutfwang said his administration has deliberately maintained a tradition of worshipping with different Christian denominations across Plateau State as part of its commitment to fostering unity among believers and reinforcing the Church's role as a catalyst for peace, reconciliation and societal transformation.

"One of the assignments God has given us is to unite the Church of Jesus Christ. Wherever we have the opportunity to worship, we ask where we should go because we believe the Church must remain one. When the Church stands together, it becomes a stronger force for righteousness, peace and development," he said.

The Governor reaffirmed Plateau State's long-standing reputation as the Home of Peace and Tourism, emphasizing that the state remains welcoming to Nigerians from every ethnic and religious background.

He assured residents that his administration would continue to guarantee equal opportunities for all law-abiding citizens while encouraging everyone to respect the customs, traditions and cultural values of their host communities.

"As long as you live on the Plateau, you are my brother and my sister. We welcome everyone from every part of Nigeria. We only ask that you respect our values, respect our culture and live peacefully with one another. Plateau will always remain home for all who desire peace."

Governor Mutfwang noted that the spirit of inclusiveness being promoted across the state is equally reflected within his administration, particularly in the Government House Chapel, where ministers and leaders are drawn from all denominations, aimed at uniting the body of Christ.

He challenged church leaders to sustain cooperation across denominational lines, stressing that a united Church remains indispensable to the promotion of peace, justice and moral renewal.

Speaking on the security situation in the state, Governor Mutfwang described insecurity as a deliberate strategy by criminal elements to impoverish communities, displace families and undermine economic prosperity.

He therefore called on citizens to regard security as a shared responsibility by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious persons and activities to security agencies.

"Security personnel are not magicians; they act on credible intelligence. When you see something, say something. The information you provide may save lives, prevent attacks and protect entire communities."

The Governor disclosed that several planned attacks had recently been foiled through timely intelligence provided by patriotic citizens, assuring residents that the Plateau State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, remains resolute in dismantling criminal networks and restoring lasting peace across the state.

He also commended Christian and Muslim religious leaders for their commitment to dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence, noting that their interventions have helped to prevent tensions that could have escalated into conflict.

Turning to economic development, Governor Mutfwang identified poverty as one of the greatest threats to sustainable peace and emphasized that his administration is deliberately investing in programmes that create jobs, expand livelihoods and empower vulnerable groups.

He highlighted ongoing investments in modern agriculture, greenhouse farming, youth entrepreneurship, women empowerment and skills acquisition, noting that many young people are already generating sustainable incomes through greenhouse bell pepper production and other value-chain initiatives.

"Modern agriculture is no longer about the size of land you own; it is about productivity, innovation and technology. Plateau women remain the backbone of our economy, and we will continue to support them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed."

The Governor disclosed that widows, vulnerable women and young mothers across the state are benefiting from vocational training and empowerment programmes designed to improve household incomes and reduce poverty.

He further revealed that the Plateau State Government is intensifying efforts to combat girl-child trafficking, illegal baby factories and human trafficking through the Gender Equality Commission and the Ministry of Women Affairs, disclosing that several trafficked girls had recently been rescued from neighbouring West African countries and reunited with their families.

Governor Mutfwang also reaffirmed his administration's determination to regulate mining activities across the state in order to eliminate illegal mining, improve miners' earnings, protect host communities and discourage school dropouts among young people.

He disclosed that government is equally exploring the introduction of sustainable school feeding initiatives, including meals for pupils in public primary schools and feeding programmes in public boarding schools, as part of broader efforts to improve school enrolment, reduce poverty and strengthen human capital development.

While expressing appreciation to the people of Plateau State for their unwavering support despite prevailing economic challenges, the Governor assured them that his administration would continue to invest in critical infrastructure, including roads, street lighting, water supply and other essential public services that directly improve the quality of life of citizens.

In a demonstration of compassion and commitment to social welfare, Governor Mutfwang announced a financial donation to support struggling young mothers and widows within the church. He also pledged to provide a solar power system for the church to enhance its operations, instead of procuring a generator.

Earlier, the Chairman of Bukuru District Church Council (DCC), Rev. Ezra Anthony, thanked Governor Mutfwang for worshipping with the congregation and commended his administration's commitment to the welfare, peace and development of Plateau State.

Rev. Anthony also expressed concern over the persistent attacks on communities in Jos South Local Government Area, lamenting the loss of lives, destruction of livelihoods and growing insecurity affecting residents. He commended security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), for their sacrifices in safeguarding lives and maintaining stability across the state.

Delivering the sermon from Luke 13:22–30 on the theme, "Strive to Enter His Kingdom," the Senior Pastor of ECWA Goodnews Church, Bukuru, Rev. Mislum Ishaya, urged Christians to embrace genuine repentance, holy living and unwavering commitment to Jesus Christ as the only pathway to eternal life.

He cautioned believers against relying solely on religious activities without personal transformation, stressing that entrance into God's Kingdom requires sincere faith, obedience and a life that reflects the character of Christ.

The service featured special prayers for Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Plateau State Government and lasting peace, security and prosperity across Plateau State.

Gyang Bere, PhD

Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State

July 19, 2026