by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has pledged collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to drive a narrative that reflects the true identity of the state.
He says, “Crisis merchants had, in the past, attempted to demarcate Plateau State through negative reportage that did not accurately represent the state’s reality. While it is true that Plateau has faced security challenges, these situations were often taken out of context.
Governor Mutfwang made these remarks during a courtesy visit by Executive Members of the NIPR, Plateau State Chapter, and other stakeholders at the Old Government House in Rayfield, Jos.
He emphasized the need for NIPR members to leverage their professionalism in portraying the genuine image of Plateau. He highlighted that communities in the state, particularly Jos, are among the most peaceful and safest in the country.
Governor Mutfwang underscored that the peace of Plateau State, situated in the middle-belt of Nigeria, is crucial for the overall peaceful coexistence of the nation, and urged the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations to advocate for lasting peace in the state.
He said his administration is actively creating a conducive atmosphere for investors and visitors to engage in business activities within the state, while ensuring their safety.
Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Thomas Bajeh, congratulated Governor Mutfwang on his well-deserved victory at the polls and subsequent affirmation at the Supreme Court.
Mr. Bajeh described the governor as “a workaholic” who, in just one year in office, has delivered remarkable dividends of democracy to the people of Plateau State.
He listed achievements to include addressing insecurity, introducing Metro Buses, rejuvenating rail transport, rehabilitation of roads across the state and driving urban renewal initiatives, which he said are a testament to good governance.
He assured Governor Mutfwang of NIPR’s determination to collaborate with the state in reshaping the current narratives, to enable Plateau State regain its rightful place as a “haven of peace and tourism.”
Council Member of NIPR and Executive Director of the Advancement Office at the University of Jos, Prof. Sarah Lwahas, expressed deep gratitude to the governor for his support.
She also announced that, “By virtue of his victory at the polls, Governor Mutfwang is now automatically a Patron of NIPR, Plateau State Chapter,” and requested a date for the formal investiture of the Governor as NIPR Patron.