From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has announced the award of a N30 billion contract for the construction of a dam in Langtang North to provide potable water for residents.
He stated that work on the project is expected to begin by the end of the month.
The Governor made this known on Saturday during the 2025 Ilum Otarok Annual Cultural Festival, where he joined the Tarok Nation in celebration and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, and development in the region.
Speaking to a jubilant crowd at the Langtang North Mini Stadium, Governor Mutfwang commended the Tarok people for their resilience, commitment to peace, and significant contributions to the socio-political development of Plateau State.
He assured the community that his government is working to resolve the traditional leadership succession in Tarok land, promising the installation of a new Ponzhi Tarok soon. He described the new leader as a figure who would unify and inspire the people toward progress.
“This is one of the places in Plateau State where one can sleep with both eyes closed,” he said. “The peace here must be preserved.”
Mutfwang expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support his administration has received from the Tarok people and reaffirmed his commitment to completing the Kumkwam–Gazum road and other infrastructure projects in Langtang South.
He noted that water has already begun flowing in parts of Langtang Town, despite the project still being under construction, and highlighted solar-powered water interventions in Gazum and other areas to alleviate water scarcity.
The Governor also threw his support behind the proposed Tarok University, calling on individuals and stakeholders to contribute to the vision. He emphasized the need for greater Tarok representation in state leadership, pointing to the appointment of a Tarok son as Secretary to the State Government.
Plans are underway to establish another tertiary institution in the Southern Zone, potentially in Tarok land, to expand educational access and drive economic development, he added.
On the matter of traditional. leadership, Mutfwang called for unity among Tarok elites to conclude the Ponzhi Tarok succession process.
“The time to have a new Ponzhi Tarok is now,” he said. “We are in the final stages of consultation and will soon complete the process. I look forward to returning here to officially install the new Ponzhi Tarok and present him with the staff of office.”
He emphasized the importance of internal unity to resist external threats and urged the Tarok people to build a collective consensus for the progress of their land.
“I wish the Tarok Nation continued peace, prosperity, and progress. As you succeed, remember to uplift your roots,” he added.
Present at the event were Sen. Napoleon Bali, Secretary to the State Government Arc. Samuel Jatau, Langtang North Executive Chairman Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem, former House of Representatives member Hon. Beni Lar, Commissioner of Works Hon. Joshua Ubandoma, Commissioner of Information Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, and several other dignitaries.
