By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to achieving lasting peace through inclusive dialogue, institutional reforms and strengthened collaboration with the Federal Government, following the submission of a comprehensive report by the Strategic Committee established after the state’s engagement with Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The report, presented on Monday at the Old Government House in Rayfield, Jos, was prepared by a committee chaired by former Plateau State Governor Joshua Dariye, which was constituted to harmonise issues raised during the Plateau State delegation’s visit to the President.
Presenting the report, Dariye said the committee was mandated to develop a comprehensive engagement agenda with the Presidency, identify priority areas requiring Federal Government intervention, and recommend sustainable measures to promote peace, security, social cohesion and development across the state.
He noted that the committee’s assignment went beyond administrative responsibility, stressing that it was directly linked to protecting lives, securing communities and fostering enduring peace.
According to him, the committee produced a two-volume report containing detailed analyses, key findings, implementation frameworks and practical recommendations for government action.
Dariye observed that Plateau’s security challenges are multidimensional, historical and dynamic, adding that while several reports and peace initiatives already exist, poor implementation, weak institutional support, inconsistent follow-up, personnel changes and inadequate accountability have hindered meaningful progress.
Among its recommendations, the committee proposed a comprehensive stabilisation and recovery framework that extends beyond military intervention to include protection of vulnerable communities, support for internally displaced persons, reconstruction of affected communities, livelihood restoration, trauma healing, youth empowerment, women’s participation, interfaith collaboration, traditional conflict mediation and education.
He also emphasised the need for strategic communication to reshape public perception of Plateau State.
“Plateau State must be deliberate in telling its own story, correcting distorted narratives, showcasing government efforts, and transforming its image from one defined by conflict and crisis to one anchored on peace, resilience, justice, hospitality, investment, tourism and opportunity,” Dariye said.
Receiving the report, Governor Mutfwang described it as a strategic roadmap that would guide informed dialogue and practical interventions to address the state’s complex security and socio-political challenges.
He said President Tinubu demonstrated genuine concern for Plateau during the delegation’s visit and directed the state government to intensify efforts towards restoring lasting peace.
“When we visited Mr. President, it was evident that he has a genuine concern for Plateau State.
“That is why he gave us clear marching orders to reignite and reinvigorate the search for lasting peace on the Plateau,” the governor said.
Mutfwang explained that misconceptions surrounding the purpose of the presidential engagement made it necessary to establish the committee to provide factual clarity and build a shared understanding of the issues confronting the state.
He commended traditional rulers, political leaders, religious leaders and community stakeholders for sustaining dialogue in an atmosphere of mutual respect, describing their commitment as vital to preserving Plateau’s social harmony.
The governor further assured that the report would be presented to a broader assembly of Plateau stakeholders to ensure wider participation and ownership of the peace-building process.
“Those who accompanied us to the Presidential Villa do not represent the entirety of Plateau. Many who were unable to make the trip also have valuable perspectives that deserve to be heard.
“We must therefore create an enabling environment where every interest group has a voice at the discussion table,” he said.