Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has stated that his administration will not enter into negotiations with terrorists or criminal groups, emphasizing that the government will continue ongoing security operations aimed at restoring enduring peace across the state.
Mutfwang made the declaration on Friday in Jos during a Democracy Day Town Hall Meeting, where he also outlined major initiatives undertaken by his administration in agriculture, water infrastructure, security, and social welfare.
He insisted that any form of engagement or negotiation with criminal elements was not under consideration, stressing that security agencies must persist in taking firm action against those responsible for violent acts.
“Negotiating with criminals is not an option. We will continue to push them out of our communities,” he said.
The governor disclosed that his administration had strengthened security operations throughout the state in partnership with security agencies, community leaders, and traditional institutions, noting that the approach was already producing encouraging outcomes in affected communities.
He explained that coordinated security efforts had resulted in the arrest of several individuals connected to violent incidents, adding that the arrests had generated fresh leads and valuable intelligence for security operatives.
Mutfwang said ongoing investigations were assisting authorities in exposing broader criminal networks responsible for some of the attacks, while the government continued providing logistics and intelligence support to security agencies.
The governor praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as unwavering support and clear directives to security agencies in tackling insecurity nationwide, noting that such backing had enhanced operational effectiveness.
He assured residents that although security concerns could not be resolved immediately, the government remained committed to sustaining operations until durable peace is restored across Plateau State.
Mutfwang also urged stronger cooperation among traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders in efforts to promote peace and stability.
He said the state government had increased the procurement of fertiliser to assist farmers, revealing that about 5,000 trucks had already been secured for distribution to enhance agricultural productivity across the state.
He explained that the government was broadening its agricultural support initiatives to improve food production and strengthen livelihoods, particularly among rural farming populations.
Mutfwang also revealed that his administration was investing heavily in water infrastructure, describing access to water as a vital component of development.
He said the government was presently executing a major water project worth over N30 billion in Lantang South and Lantang North, alongside rehabilitation works at Yakubu Gowon Dam and Liberty Dam.
According to him, additional water schemes are being implemented in communities such as Madok Village to improve access to clean water, with some projects nearing completion and set for commissioning soon.
He said the interventions were designed to tackle long-standing water supply challenges and enhance living conditions across the state.
The governor stated that his administration remained dedicated to comprehensive development across agriculture, water, health, education, and infrastructure, adding that continuous investment would improve the welfare of residents.
He said Plateau must continue projecting hope and positive narratives to attract investment, warning that negative perceptions about insecurity could hinder economic recovery efforts.
According to him, the state is already experiencing renewed investor confidence, with growing interest from local and foreign investors in strategic sectors of the economy.
Mutfwang disclosed that he recently attended an investment forum in Lagos where he engaged representatives from the United States and other investors, noting that discussions reflected strong confidence in Plateau’s economic potential.
He said investors had expressed interest in major projects, including a proposed refinery and a modern abattoir, which he said would soon be inaugurated.
“One foreign national, after my presentation in Lagos, said to the government: I want to buy all your meat. This is exciting,” he said.
The governor maintained that despite prevailing security challenges, his administration remained focused on economic recovery, institutional reforms, and rebuilding investor confidence.
He said that since assuming office in May 2023, the administration had stabilised the civil service, strengthened fiscal discipline, and improved governance structures inherited under difficult financial conditions.
Mutfwang disclosed that the state faced salary arrears and limited financial resources at the inception of his administration, adding that prudent financial management had helped place Plateau State on a path to recovery.
The governor said ongoing reforms had revitalised key sectors, particularly agriculture and infrastructure, with the aim of stimulating economic growth and creating employment opportunities across the state.
He reiterated that peace and security remain essential for attracting investment, stressing that meaningful economic development cannot occur without stability.
Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, improving infrastructure, and expanding economic opportunities for residents.
He also urged Nigerians to continue safeguarding democracy, describing it as the foundation for economic growth, accountability, and investor confidence.
He said his government remained committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and inclusive development as critical pillars for sustainable economic transformation in Plateau State.
