The Plateau State Government has reinforced its grassroots security architecture with the graduation of 1,450 operatives of Operation Rainbow, the state-owned security outfit.
The passing-out ceremony, held on Tuesday was described as a major step towards building a safer and more peaceful Plateau State.
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Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang in his speech said the event marked a historic milestone for the state and the operatives, who were drawn from across all faiths and ethnic groups.
According to him, the graduation symbolised a collective determination to protect lives, property and communities.
“It is with immense pride, deep satisfaction, and a profound sense of responsibility that I address you today at this historic Passing-Out Parade of one thousand four hundred and fifty operatives of Operation Rainbow. This occasion marks a significant milestone not only in your lives but also in our collective resolve to build a safer, more peaceful Plateau State,” the governor said.
The governor stressed that security remains the foundation of sustainable development, noting that peace and security are central to his administration’s policy direction.
He explained that the government has prioritised community-based security initiatives, including support for vigilante structures, to strengthen collaboration at the grassroots.
“Without peace, there can be no meaningful progress, no investment, no prosperity, and no enduring unity. This is why peace and security constitute the cardinal policy thrusts of my administration, and why your training has gone beyond physical drills to include discipline, respect for the rule of law and human rights,” Mutfwang added.
Clarifying the mandate of Operation Rainbow, the governor said the outfit was created to protect all citizens irrespective of faith, ethnicity or background, and not to witch-hunt any group.
He assured the operatives of government’s commitment to their welfare, logistics and continuous training, while announcing a partnership with the Nigerian Air Force to deploy a helicopter for aerial surveillance during the festive season, especially in rural communities.
He congratulated the operatives on the successful completion of their training and urged residents of the state to remain vigilant and law-abiding.
He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to continue investing in security infrastructure, intelligence and partnerships to ensure peace, unity and prosperity across Plateau State.
