by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Government has taken a bold step in its digital transformation agenda, with the inauguration of a Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) in partnership with Digital Bridge Institute (DBI).
during the inauguration.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Twin Theater of the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos, by the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, marks a significant milestone for the state’s technology-driven future.
Inaugurating the JTWG, Governor Mutfwang described the partnership as a “historic turning-point” with far-reaching implications for the state’s youths.
“ICT has been a long-standing priority for us, but with this collaboration, we can now anticipate concrete milestones that will fast-track e-governance, e-commerce, and other ICT-driven opportunities in Plateau State,” the governor declared.
He commended DBI’s President, Mr. David Dasar, for facilitating the siting of the Institute’s campus in Plateau, and expressed appreciation to the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy for supporting the initiative.
Governor Mutfwang pledged full government backing, while affirming that: “We are eager to see deliverables within the shortest possible time. Whatever we need to do as a government to make this succeed, we shall do, by the grace of God.”
The newly-inaugurated JTWG comprises: Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, Secretary to the Government of the State, Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, Commissioner of Science and Technology, Hon. Grace Shwarta Dongkum, Commissioner of Finance, Mr. Dominic Datong, Director-General of PICTDA, and Mr. Manji Wilson, Chief Technical Adviser to the Governor on Development Partnership, Strategic Linkages, and Diaspora Engagement.
In his remarks, Mr. David Dasar revealed that DBI is restructuring into a national digital institute with a statutory mandate, positioning Plateau not merely as a participant but as a key beneficiary of future funding opportunities.
He emphasized that DBI’s presence will unlock access to donor-funded scholarships, advanced training, and international outsourcing opportunities for Plateau’s youths.
Linking the initiative to the Federal Government’s Talent City Project and the planned fiber optic expansion, Dasar described Plateau as strategically-positioned to emerge as a regional hub for digital jobs and innovation.
He also urged the Plateau State House of Assembly to expedite the passage of the Nigerian Startup Act, which he identified as a “critical funding gateway” for the state’s growing technology ecosystem.
On behalf of the JTWG, Arc Samuel Jatau assured the governor and partners of the group’s unwavering commitment: “We will do our best to ensure that within the shortest possible time, this partnership becomes a reality.”
Earlier, the same day, Governor Mutfwang received a delegation from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), supported by the European Union. The delegation, led by Dr. Emmanuel Uche, briefed the governor on progress achieved under the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme in Plateau State.
Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to institutional reforms, stating: “We believe in building strong institutions and capacities so that our successes today can be sustained beyond our administration. We are determined to do the right things, at the right time, guided by transparency and accountability.”
Dr. Uche commended Plateau for its “reform-minded” approach and highlighted RoLAC’s three core pillars: strengthening criminal justice administration, improving access to justice for vulnerable groups, and promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
He noted Plateau’s remarkable progress in criminal justice and access to justice, while laying solid foundations for stronger anti-corruption frameworks.