Statewide broadcasts have long served as an important moment of reflection and reassurance, offering leaders an opportunity to speak directly to citizens at a time of heightened expectations and uncertainty. Against a backdrop of lingering insecurity, economic strain, and social tension, such addresses often set the tone for governance priorities.
For many, statewide broadcast is more than a ceremonial message; it is a benchmark against which government performance is measured. It provides insight into past achievements, acknowledges shared pain, and outlines the vision that will guide public policy.
It was within this context that Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau State, delivered his 2026 New Year broadcast on Thursday, January 1, seeking to reassure citizens and reassert his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, and development.
Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau State, opened his address with a tone of humility and gratitude, welcoming residents into what he described as a year of renewed hope and accelerated transformation for the state.
“It is with profound gratitude to Almighty God and a deep sense of humility that I warmly welcome you into the year 2026,” the governor said, framing the new year as a fresh opportunity for collective progress.
Reflecting on the trials of the previous year, Mutfwang acknowledged that 2025 was marked by significant challenges at both state and national levels, particularly in security and economic stability.
“Despite the challenges we faced together in 2025 as a state and as a nation, we have every reason to give thanks to God for His steadfast love, guidance, and protection,” he stated.
The governor commiserated with families who lost loved ones to violent attacks and other tragedies, offering prayers for the injured and reaffirming government support for affected households.
He described 2025 as a turning point in Plateau State’s governance journey, citing the implementation of the Budget of Consolidation and Sustainability as a framework that strengthened responsible leadership.
According to Mutfwang, the budget prioritised peace and security, road infrastructure, healthcare delivery, agricultural growth, and human capital development, laying foundations for long-term stability.
The governor expressed appreciation to Plateau residents for standing by his administration despite economic hardships and persistent security concerns.
“Despite economic hardships and security challenges, you chose hope over despair and unity over division,” he said, crediting citizens for sustaining social cohesion.
On peace and security, Mutfwang said his government intensified collaboration with security agencies, traditional rulers, faith-based leaders, and community stakeholders to strengthen early-warning and conflict-prevention mechanisms.
He noted that peacebuilding and reconciliation programmes were expanded to heal longstanding divisions and foster unity among the state’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.
“In furtherance of this commitment, 1,450 personnel cutting across all the 17 local government areas were recruited and trained under Operation Rainbow,” the governor announced.
He explained that the additional personnel significantly increased security presence across communities, enhancing the protection of lives and property.
Turning to infrastructure, Mutfwang reported steady progress in the rehabilitation and construction of critical road networks across the three senatorial zones of the state.
He added that urban renewal projects in Jos and other major towns, alongside improvements in water supply schemes and rural electrification, were aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.
Education featured prominently in the address, with the governor reaffirming its central role in Plateau State’s future development.
“Education remains the bedrock of Plateau State’s future,” Mutfwang declared, pointing to investments in school renovation, teacher recruitment, and settlement of outstanding obligations.
He said partnerships with tertiary institutions were strengthened and skills acquisition and vocational training programmes expanded for youths and women.
The governor disclosed that several Plateau students were recently awarded scholarships to study in India as part of efforts to build global competence and deepen manpower development.
In the health sector, Mutfwang said primary healthcare facilities were upgraded, maternal and child health services expanded, and access to essential drugs improved.
He also noted that social intervention programmes targeting widows, persons with disabilities, and internally displaced persons were sustained in line with the administration’s inclusive governance agenda.
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Agriculture, according to the governor, remained a major comparative advantage for Plateau State, with farmers supported through input distribution, extension services, and improved market access.
“We have launched new Plateau potato seedlings, introducing improved varieties to boost productivity, income, and export potential,” he said.
Mutfwang emphasised that his government remained committed to transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline, noting the regular payment of salaries and pensions.
Looking ahead, the governor outlined key priorities for 2026, including deeper peace and security, accelerated infrastructure delivery, education transformation, healthcare expansion, and economic diversification.
“The year 2026 offers us fresh opportunities to consolidate our gains and accelerate development,” he said, calling on citizens to work collectively.
He urged residents to rise above ethnic, religious, and political differences in the interest of peace and prosperity.
“Let us reject division, violence, and despair, and instead embrace dialogue, hard work, and mutual respect,” Mutfwang appealed.
Addressing recent political developments, the governor assured citizens that no decision would be taken to mislead the people, stressing that consultations were ongoing. He expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as development partners and international allies, for their continued support.
“As we journey through 2026, I assure you that your government remains resolute in its commitment to serve with integrity, compassion, and courage,” Mutfwang stated.
The broadcast ended with prayers and expressions of gratitude, as the governor thanked Plateau citizens for their resilience and faith.
Beyond the words of reassurance, the 2026 New Year broadcast sets clear expectations for governance in Plateau State, and its true impact will ultimately be judged by how effectively promises of peace, development, and inclusion are translated into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens.
