Residents of Plateau have lauded Governor Caleb Mutfwang for promoting good and inclusive governance in the state.

Some oesidents, who spoke on Thursday night at a Christmas luncheon organised by the state government, commended the governor for ensuring rapid and steady development in the state.

Former governors Joshua Dariye, Jonah Jang and Simon Lalong were among the dignitaries at the event.

Samuel Atikum, former military governor of the state, lauded Mr Mutfwang’s various initiatives to tackle the myriad of security challenges in the state.

Highlighting Mr Mutfwang’s holistic approach toward constructing new roads and rehabilitating existing ones, he commended him for promoting inclusive governance at all levels.

“You must, therefore, set aside party affiliations and ensure good governance for total development in the state.

“Treat the entire state as your constituency; avoid sycophants and seek inspirational knowledge to formulate policies that will benefit the people,” Mr Atikum advised the governor.

The former military governor, however, called on elders in the state to shelve all political, ethnic and religious differences and support the governor to succeed.

Emir of Kanam, Mu’azu Babangida, who spoke on behalf of the traditional rulers, commended the governor for initiating moves aimed at uniting the people and fostering sustainable development in the state.

Yahaya Kwande, former Nigerian ambassador to Switzerland, lauded Mr Mutfwang for reviving the train mass transit and the introduction of the metro buses.

He said the move, among other laudable initiatives in other sectors, had cushioned the people’s hardship.

He advised the governor to ensure regular engagements with the elders and other stakeholders, insisting that such a move would propel collective efforts toward tackling all challenges currently bedevilling the state.

Responding, Mutfwang thanked the elders for honouring the invitation despite the short notice and expressed confidence that Plateau would experience unprecedented growth in the coming years with their support.

Highlighting his vision for a secure Plateau, the governor said that his administration had made significant investments in technology to boost surveillance and swift response to any security breach.

“Our efforts, no doubt, are already yielding tremendous results. This is why we are enjoying the current peace in the state. The tourism sector has received a boost, and there are efforts to rebuild the Hill Station Hotel, Plateau Hotel, and the Jos Abattoir.

“These efforts will not only boost our revenue but provide employment opportunities for our teeming youths,” he said.

The governor promised to frequently interface with the elders and other key stakeholders for the overall interest of the state.

(NAN)