Plateau State Ruler Vows No Talks with Extremist Groups — Governor Mutfwang

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has made it clear that his administration will not engage in negotiations with terrorists or criminal elements, instead opting to continue ongoing security operations aimed at restoring lasting peace across the state.

This declaration was made by Mutfwang on Friday in Jos during a Democracy Day Town Hall Meeting, where he also shed light on key interventions his administration has made in areas such as agriculture, water infrastructure, security, and social services.

Mutfwang emphasized that negotiating with criminals is not a viable option, stressing that security agencies must take decisive action against perpetrators, and he stated, "Negotiating with criminals is not an option, we will continue to push them out of our communities."

The governor's administration has intensified security operations across the state in collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and traditional institutions, and this strategy has begun to yield positive results in affected areas.

Coordinated security operations have led to the arrest of several suspects linked to violent attacks, and these arrests have opened new lines of investigation and provided useful intelligence to security agencies.

Ongoing investigations are helping to uncover wider criminal networks behind some of the attacks, while the government continues to support security agencies with logistics and intelligence gathering.

Mutfwang commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his firm support and clear directives to security agencies in addressing insecurity across the country, noting that this has boosted operational response.

The governor assured residents that although security challenges will not be resolved overnight, the government remains determined to sustain operations until lasting peace is achieved across Plateau State.

Mutfwang called for stronger collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders in peacebuilding efforts.

The state government has increased the procurement of fertiliser to support farmers, with about 5,000 trucks already secured for distribution to boost agricultural productivity across the state.

The government is expanding its agricultural support programmes to strengthen food production and improve livelihoods, especially among rural farming communities.

Mutfwang disclosed that his administration is making major investments in water infrastructure, describing water supply as a critical pillar of development.

A major water project valued at over N30 billion is being executed in Lantang South and Lantang North, alongside rehabilitation works at Yakubu Gowon Dam and Liberty Dam.

Additional water projects are being implemented in communities such as Madok Village to expand access to potable water, some of which are nearing completion and will soon be commissioned.

The interventions are aimed at addressing long-standing water challenges and improving living standards across the state.

The governor's administration remains committed to integrated development across agriculture, water, health, education, and infrastructure, adding that sustained investment will improve the welfare of citizens.

Mutfwang stated that Plateau must continue to project hope and positive narratives in order to attract investment, warning that negative perceptions about insecurity could undermine economic recovery efforts.

The state is already witnessing renewed investor confidence, with increasing interest from local and foreign investors in key sectors of the economy.

Mutfwang recently participated in an investment forum in Lagos, where he engaged with United States representatives and other investors, noting that discussions reflected strong optimism about Plateau's economic prospects.

Investors have indicated interest in major projects, including a proposed refinery and a modern abattoir, which he said would soon be flagged off, with one foreign national expressing interest in purchasing all the state's meat.

The governor maintained that despite security challenges, his administration remains focused on economic recovery, institutional reforms, and rebuilding investor trust.

Since assuming office in May 2023, the administration has stabilised the civil service, strengthened fiscal discipline, and improved governance systems inherited in a difficult financial situation.

Mutfwang disclosed that the state was confronted with salary arrears and limited financial capacity at inception, but prudent financial management has helped reposition Plateau State on a recovery path.

At the time he assumed office, Plateau had exhausted its borrowing threshold, but the administration was able to secure financial support from financial institutions to meet critical obligations.

Ongoing reforms have revitalised key sectors, particularly agriculture and infrastructure, aimed at stimulating economic activity and job creation across the state.

Mutfwang reiterated that peace and security remain central to attracting investment, stressing that no meaningful economic growth can occur without stability.

The governor reaffirmed his administration's commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses, improving infrastructure, and expanding economic opportunities for citizens.

Mutfwang called on Nigerians to continue to defend democracy, describing it as the foundation for economic growth, accountability, and investor confidence.

The governor's government remains committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and inclusive development as key pillars for sustained economic transformation in Plateau State.