Aisha Muhammad

GOVERNOR MUTFWANG, FG SIGN MoU TO REVAMP ICONIC TOURISM SITES IN PLATEAU; RENEW COMMITMENT TO ADDRESSING SECURITY CHALLENGES The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Plateau State Government to aggressively revamp the tourism sector through the remodeling of iconic sites and the rehabilitation of neglected tourism infrastructure across the state. The Honourable Minister, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, signed the MoU on behalf of the Federal Government, while His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, signed on behalf of the Plateau State Government at the Plateau Governor's Lodge, Abuja. Both leaders affirmed that Plateau State is richly endowed with vast tourism potential which, if properly harnessed, can position Nigeria prominently on the global tourism map and generate significant revenue for sustainable development. The Minister commended the people of Plateau State for their resilience, hospitality, and determination to change the narrative through the leadership of Governor Mutfwang. She noted that tourism discourse in Nigeria remains incomplete without reference to Plateau State, widely known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism.” “Tourism is critically important because when you develop within a tourism landscape, you create opportunities to absorb a large number of people into meaningful employment. As people become engaged, they develop a sense of ownership of the destination. That sense of ownership encourages them to protect and preserve it. In this way, tourism can also play a significant role in addressing insecurity by helping to mitigate its root causes,” the Minister stated. She further emphasized: “When you talk about tourism in Nigeria, that conversation cannot and will never be complete without Plateau State. Many of us grew up recognizing the state for its immense tourism potential. Wherever you go around the world, when people speak about the beauty of Nigeria, they speak about the Plateau; it is truly the Plateau of the world.” In his response, Governor Mutfwang reiterated that Plateau State is abundantly blessed with unique tourism assets which, when strategically developed in partnership with the Federal Government, will attract international visitors and establish the state as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria. He highlighted the state’s distinctive tourism sites and vibrant cultural festivals, which have gained national and international recognition. The Governor noted that the introduction of the Plateau Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival has further enhanced the state’s tourism appeal, adding that the 2024 edition attracted two former Presidents. Efforts are underway to elevate the 2026 edition to an international event. Governor Mutfwang described the persistent security challenges in parts of the state as unfortunate but assured that his administration is implementing decisive and proactive measures to curb criminal activities and safeguard lives and property. “We have hosted conferences where visitors experienced a vibrant nightlife, contrary to negative perceptions. These are indicators of improving safety. We are strengthening security further by deploying technology to detect and respond to crime more swiftly, positioning Plateau State for greater global engagement. “Looking ahead to 2027, one of our key aspirations is to launch a ‘Welcome to Plateau’ project targeted at the diaspora community. We are exploring the development of a diaspora city, leveraging our available land, favorable climate, and investment potential,” the Governor stated. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to confronting all challenges that may hinder development and called on citizens to remain resilient, supportive, and united in the collective effort to reposition Plateau State as a pride of the nation. Gyang Bere Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State

PLATEAU STATE RECEIVES RELIEF MATERIALS, AS APOSTLE SELMAN URGES HOPE AND RESILIENCE Apostle Joshua Selman has donated relief materials valued at over ₦100 million to support victims of recent tragic attacks in Plateau State, calling for renewed hope and collective responsibility in rebuilding affected communities. The cleric made the presentation during a courtesy visit to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang at the Old Government House, Rayfield, Jos. Speaking during the visit, Apostle Selman, accompanied by Pastor John Kennedy and Bestman Uwadia, said the delegation came to identify with the people of Plateau State in their moment of grief and to demonstrate compassion beyond words. He noted that discussions were held with the state government on ongoing efforts to address security challenges and improve livelihoods. Describing Plateau as “a place with good people, rich culture, and great potential,” he acknowledged the pain caused by recent tragic events but emphasized optimism: "We’re here to lend our voice with the government and the good people of Plateau that there is still hope. In the midst of chaos and unfortunate incidents, God is still on the throne, and there is always a way out.” He added that the visit was also a practical demonstration of support: “I thought it was good to come with palliatives as a way of supporting the state, supporting the Church as a clergy, and generally locking hands with the government to add to what is already being done across the state, including CAN.” The intervention includes a truckload of 3,000 bags of rice and cooking oil for distribution across communities and church blocs, alongside additional financial support targeted at affected families. Apostle Selman noted that while such assistance cannot replace lost lives, it serves as a gesture of comfort and solidarity. Receiving the donation, Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude, describing the gesture as timely and compassionate. He said it reflects a strong sense of unity and shared responsibility, while highlighting ongoing efforts by the government and religious bodies to support all affected persons, regardless of religious affiliation. The governor called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders and urged citizens both at home and in the diaspora to contribute to peacebuilding efforts. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring stability and expressed optimism that Plateau State will overcome its challenges and reclaim its status as a beacon of hope. Gyang Bere, PhD Director of Press and Public Affairs Office of the Executive Governor of Plateau State April 15, 2026

PRESS RELEASE PLATEAU STATE GOVERNMENT CONGRATULATES LAWMAKER, DIRECTOR OF PRESS, OTHERS ON ATTAINMENT OF PhD The Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on behalf of the Government and the good people of Plateau State, congratulates the Member representing Mangu South Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Dr. Mathew Sylvanus Kwarpo, and the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor, Dr. Gyang Musa Bere, on the successful conferment of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees by Nasarawa State University, Keffi. The Governor also extends warm felicitations to Dr. Ibrahim Dickson Manset and other distinguished sons and daughters of Plateau State who were equally honoured with PhD degrees at the institution's convocation ceremony. This significant academic achievement reflects the recipients' dedication to resilience, intellectual growth, and excellence. Governor Mutfwang expressed confidence that the knowledge and expertise acquired will further strengthen their capacity to contribute meaningfully to public service, academia, and national development. Furthermore, the Government is confident that the honourees' ability to balance demanding professional responsibilities with rigorous academic accomplishment is both inspiring and worthy of emulation. The Government calls on young people across the state to draw inspiration from these achievements by embracing education, self-improvement, and a strong commitment to the collective progress of the state and society at large. Congratulations! Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, mni Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communication April 12, 2026

Federal and Plateau State Government takes drastic measures to Prevent Future Mining Disasters: visits Zurak Community The Federal Government and the Plateau State Government have expressed profound grief and renewed commitment to safety following the tragic loss of over 37 miners at an underground mining site in Kampani-Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday. February 17th, 2026, is suspected to have been caused by toxic gas emissions, with others currently receiving medical treatment. The Honourable Minister, Solid Minerals Development, Hon. Henry Dele Alake, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Faruk Yahaya Yabo FNSE. led a federal delegation to the affected site on Thursday, February 19. The delegation included relevant Directors as well as team of experts from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, alongside representatives of the Plateau State Government. Speaking during the visit, the Minister described the incident as deeply devastating, noting that the loss of more than 30 able-bodied members of a single community represents a great tragedy. He stated that the Federal Government is conducting a comprehensive fact-finding mission to establish the precise cause of the disaster. Preliminary reports indicate the possible presence of toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and sulphite emissions, though laboratory confirmation is still pending. The Minister expressed concern over the absence of technical representatives from the licensed mining company operating within the concession area, emphasizing that license holders bear responsibility for safety especially where community members are engaged in mining activities. Security reports also pointed to potential non-compliance with established safety protocols and possible illegal mining activities. The Minister assured stakeholders that a thorough investigation will be conducted and that appropriate measures will be taken to prevent future occurrences. Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, represented by the Commissioner of Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap mni, conveyed the state's condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Wase Local Government Area. She reiterated the administration’s previous actions, including the suspension of illegal mining activities aimed at strengthening compliance and safeguarding lives. Plateau State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Hon. Peter Kanang Gwom, acknowledged that mining regulation remains on the Exclusive Legislative List but emphasized the urgent need for stricter enforcement of the Mining Act of 2007. He reaffirmed the state government's readiness to collaborate fully with federal authorities to strengthen regulatory compliance and improve mining safety standards. Gwom further stated that Plateau State’s rich mineral resources should be a source of economic prosperity rather than recurring tragedy. He highlighted ongoing state efforts to formalize artisanal miners into cooperatives, provide capacity building training, distribute safety equipment, and facilitate access to micro-credit facilities. “We have recorded far too many avoidable fatalities resulting in widows and orphaned children. This trend must end,” he stressed. The Executive Chairman of Wase Local Government Area and Chairman of the Plateau State Chapter of ALGON, Hon. Dr Hamisu Muhammad Anani, commended the prompt response from both federal and state authorities. He pledged to intensify community sensitization efforts, noting that prevailing economic hardships continue to attract individuals from various parts of the country into informal mining activities.