by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has called on the academic community to elevate agricultural research to the level of a “national emergency and a shared civic obligation,” stressing that Nigeria’s food security challenges require urgent, research-driven interventions.
The governor made the charge on Monday, while receiving the National Leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), who were in Jos for the Union’s 18th National Delegates Conference.
(Left pix): A cross-section of delegates to the Conference. (Right pix): Gov Mutfwang (in green outfit) in handshake with an Executive of the ASUP.
While welcoming the delegates warmly to the state, Governor Mutfwang noted that their choice of Plateau as host for such a high-profile national event is a “clear expression of confidence” in his administration’s determined efforts to consolidate peace and rebuild public trust.
“Plateau is proud to host you. Your decision to convene here underscores the improving security trajectory we are sustaining through the collective commitment of our security agencies and citizens,” he stated, highlighting the state’s renewed reputation as a safe and hospitable destination for national engagements.
The governor seized the opportunity to challenge Nigerian academics to lead a transformative research culture focused on productivity, food sufficiency, and technology transfer.
“It is no longer acceptable that a nation with our endowments continues to import what it should be exporting. Research must now become the engine room of our agricultural revival,” he emphasized, describing the academic community as crucial partners in designing lasting national solutions.
Reinforcing his administration’s commitment to educational reform, Governor Mutfwang reiterated plans to upgrade Plateau State Polytechnic into a full-fledged Technical University, arguing that outdated distinctions between universities and polytechnics must be discarded.
“The artificial wall between polytechnics and universities has outlived its usefulness. Both institutions are powered by the same intellectual capital. It is time to dismantle that wall and embrace a forward-looking, innovation-driven model,” he said.
The governor highlighted the remarkable growth recorded at the institution, noting that student admissions had risen, from 3,000 to 8,000, within his first year in office, a development he attributed to targeted investments in accreditation, staffing, and strategic leadership.
“These achievements may not dominate headlines, but they represent the silent progress that defines our governance philosophy,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang further called for unity and purposeful action in confronting Nigeria’s challenges, especially insecurity. “This is not a season for name-calling; it is a season for action. Our country needs problem-solvers, not blame merchants,” he warned, urging academics to provide knowledge-driven contributions rather than fuel divisions.
Earlier, the National President of ASUP, Comrade Shammah Kpanja, applauded the governor for restoring stability, confidence, and purposeful leadership in Plateau State.
He also commended the appointment of Dr. Clement Chirman as Rector of Plateau State Polytechnic, and appealed for a review of the institution’s enabling law, alongside enhanced staff welfare.