by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutwang, has expressed concern over the recent security breach in Bokkos Local Government Area, which resulted in the loss of lives and property.
On his arrival from his overseas trip on Monday at the Yakubu Gowon Airport Heipang, the governor proceeded to the Plateau State University Bokkos to assess the impact of the security challenges that extended into neighbouring communities.
In his efforts and commitment to peace and security throughout Plateau State, Mutfwang said his recent overseas trip has significantly bolstered his ability to address the state’s security challenges.
Governor Mutfwang was speaking at the Yakubu Gowon Airport Heipang, on his return from the ‘Dialogue on Peace and Security in Nigeria’ hosted by the United States Institute of Peace.
While sharing the benefits of the dialogue for Plateau State, he said, “The insights acquired would be strategically implemented to resolve the state’s security issues in today’s interconnected world.”
He engaged with the university’s management, staff, students, traditional rulers, the host community, and other key stakeholders with a view to devising strategies to address the institution’s challenges.
The governor also reaffirmed his commitment and dedication to collaborating with all parties to elevate the university’s standing, both nationally and internationally.
The governor announced ongoing plans to form partnerships with highly reputed international universities to advance the professional development of tertiary education lecturers in the state.
He praised the efforts of his predecessors and the Butura community for their roles in maintaining the university’s operations amidst adversity.
The governor called for unity among all residents of Bokkos Local Government Area, urging them to transcend tribal and religious divides in pursuit of a cohesive society.
While extending his gratitude to everyone, who has contributed to the university’s success, Gov Mutfwand asserted that, “The challenges we face are substantial, but together, we can establish an exemplary institution recognized for excellence across Nigeria and beyond.”
The University’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Shedrack Best, lauded the governor’s visit and outlined pressing issues such as insecurity, unauthorized grazing, fence breaches, kidnappings, and insufficient hostel accommodations, in the light of which he appealed for the governor’s intervention.
The governor went round the state’s Agricultural Services, Training Centre, and Marketing Ltd (ASTC) in Bokkos, expressing a keen interest in revitalizing the center to enhance the state’s prosperity.
He was taken round by the ASTC’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Susan Bentu, who highlighted the governor’s ambition to rejuvenate legacy projects established by the state’s founders.