…Over 1,000 expected to be scooped into the unit.
by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has announced a major recruitment drive for the state’s community-based security outfit, ‘Operation Rainbow.’
The governor was emphatic that, “By the grace of God, we will soon recruit over 1,000 youths, who will be posted back to their communities as both the first and last line of defense, complementing conventional security agencies,” stressing the need to resist those who profit from insecurity.
Calendar Year.
Barr. Mutfwang also reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the judiciary, improving security, and fostering unity across the state.
He was speaking on Sunday, during the commencement of the “2025/2026 Legal Year” at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Jos.
The Mass was attended by members of the judiciary, clergy, and legal practitioners, marked the formal opening of the judiciary’s calendar year.
The governor described the occasion as a “moment of Thanksgiving and Renewal,” while declaring that, “The God, who has kept us this far, will sustain us for the days ahead.”
Reflecting on the challenges confronting the judiciary, the governor commended judicial officers for their resilience in the face of limited resources.
“When we assumed office, we met a judiciary weighed down by numerous challenges. Yet, you have remained steadfast, discharging your duties with courage and dignity,” he noted.
He assured that deliberate steps are underway to improve the welfare of retired judges, saying, “We have taken concrete actions to ameliorate their situation by beginning the payment of their outstanding entitlements. Though, the process is ongoing, it has commenced and, by God’s grace, it will be completed.”
While addressing judicial officers, Governor Mutfwang underscored the sanctity of their calling: “Judicial discretion used judiciously serves the ends of justice. But discretion abused will weigh heavily on a man’s conscience, and he will not be able to stand before his Creator,” he cautioned, urging them to uphold integrity in all decisions.
Governor Mutfwang further emphasized the unity of believers in Christ as a binding force for Plateau’s progress, and expressed gratitude to the Catholic Bishop of Jos and the Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s for hosting the Mass, adding, “The body of Christ is one, and what binds us together is the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross of Calvary.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to serve with courage and transparency: “We have no other agenda than to make Plateau better than we met it. Though, there may be giants on our way to hinder, by the grace of God, we shall overcome.”
Delivering the homily, Very Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church Jos, Rev. Fr. Paul Pam, underscored the importance of a vibrant spiritual life for Christians, noting that it brings peace and purpose.
He prayed for Nigerian leaders, asking God to open their eyes to the hardships confronting the nation and to guide them towards solutions for the liberation of mankind.
Rev. Fr. Pam highlighted that true peace anchored in Christ gives hope and direction, urging believers to align their lives with God’s will to enjoy His abundant blessings.
He encouraged them to shun wickedness and selfishness, but to embrace righteousness and reflect God’s love for humanity.
The cleric also commended Governor Mutfwang for his remarkable infrastructural development, commitment to peace and unity, and interventions across all sectors of the economy, assuring him that God would reward his efforts.
In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Plateau State, Justice David Mann, expressed gratitude to God for preserving the legal community throughout the last legal year.
He prayed for divine protection, guidance, and wisdom for members of the Bar and Bench as they commence the new Legal Year.