In what is being hailed as one of the most ambitious infrastructure initiatives in recent Plateau State history, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang recently flagged off the construction of a 2,000-unit workers’ housing estate in Miango, Bassa Local Government Area—an area long plagued by insecurity, underdevelopment, and displacement.
The project is more than just another housing scheme. It represents a new approach to governance that marries civil service reform with strategic community development, security improvement, and social healing.
A troubled terrain, now a site of promise
ango, located just 15 minutes from Jos, has over the years earned grim headlines due to banditry, farm invasions, kidnappings, and communal violence. Its lush landscapes have too often been soaked with conflict rather than cultivated in peace. Many residents, displaced or traumatized, have watched helplessly as the area deteriorated.
But with the launch of the 2,000-home estate—alongside promises of infrastructure, jobs, and security—the narrative may be changing. The Plateau State Government’s deliberate decision to site the estate in Miango is widely seen as a strategic move to confront underdevelopment and insecurity through visible investment and population stabilization.
We are rebuilding hope and stability – Governor Mutfwang
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Mutfwang described the housing estate as a pillar of his broader reform agenda. He emphasized that the project was not just about providing shelter, but about offering “hope, dignity, and stability” to civil servants and communities alike.
“This estate is designed to outlive our administration. It’s about long-term transformation—not just for workers, but for Miango and the entire Bassa LGA,” Mutfwang declared.
Mutfwang explained that the estate, spanning 38.299 hectares, was fully paid for at ₦346,542,000 to the host community—a move that helped to resolve long-standing land disputes. The governor highlighted that his administration is committed to transparency, prompt action, and a civil service that is “motivated, housed, and respected.”
Since assuming office in May 2023, Mutfwang said he has already cleared salary backlogs, increased pensions, approved a ₦70,000 minimum wage, and launched digital governance platforms—all aimed at building a productive work force, and responsive workforce.
This is development backed by delivery – DSK Group Chairman
The contractor for the project, DSK Group International Limited, reassured Plateau residents of timely delivery and high standards. David Sabo Kente, Chairman of the group noted that the project will be executed in three phases—starting with 500 units in the first 12 months, followed by 750 units in 18 months, and the final batch within 24 months.
“This is not a blueprint that gathers dust. It’s a project designed with accountability,” said Kente, referring to the pay-for-delivery model under which full payment is made only after units are completed. Kente noted that the housing is financed under the National Housing Programme, with funds from the Federal Mortgage Bank and the Pension Commission while the state government paid for the land.
He also revealed that over 3,000 jobs will be created through the project, benefiting skilled and unskilled labourers, local suppliers, and subcontractors—many of whom have been sidelined by insecurity in the area.
We’re building fast and smart – Project engineer
Speaking at the event, Christopher Nathaniel, the project engineer, emphasized the urgency and planning behind the construction timeline.
“We are starting groundwork immediately. The first batch of 500 homes should be ready within the next two to three months,” he said.
Nathaniel added that the estate’s design includes eco-friendly housing units, solar energy systems, boreholes, treated water systems, and community facilities. “Quality control, transparency, and timely delivery are non-negotiable. We’re not just building houses—we’re building resilience,” he stressed.
He also noted that local labour would be prioritized to stimulate the Miango economy, adding, “This project will put money in people’s pockets and dignity in their lives.”
A promise finally kept – NLC
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Plateau State chapter, lauded the governor for achieving what previous administrations could not.
“For years, workers were promised housing estates. But none materialized—until now. Governor Mutfwang has done what others only talked about. And with full compensation already paid, this is a rare example of governance done right”; said Eugene Manji, NLC Chairman in the state, while delivering his speech.
Manji emphasized that the estate is not just beneficial to workers, but also a tool for community revitalization, security improvement, and local economic stimulation.
Development will drive out bandits – Villagers
In an interview with BusinessDay, residents of Miango expressed cautious optimism, noting that this is the first time in decades that government presence has felt real.
“If people are working, children are in school, and lights are on, then bandits will find no hiding place”; said a local farmer who simply gave his name as Ibrahim.
He emphasized that schools, health clinics, and clean water will particularly benefit women, children, and the elderly—often the worst hit during attacks or displacements.
A local teacher, who asked not to be named for security reasons, added: “When the government is around, bandits hesitate. This estate will bring people back. And with people come peace.”
Youths in the area, many of whom are vulnerable to recruitment by criminal elements due to joblessness, see the housing project as a turning point. “Now we can work, learn skills, and stay away from violence,” one young man said, shoveling gravel with hopeful energy.
As construction begins and foundations are laid, Miango’s dusty landscape is being reshaped—not just physically, but emotionally and socially. For many residents, this is not just about buildings. It is about reclaiming lives, restoring confidence, and rebuilding a community shattered by conflict.
