Democracy Day: Mutfwang Presents Three-Year Scorecard, Seeks Greater Citizen Participation

Governor Caleb Mutfwang has highlighted the achievements of his administration over the past three years, reaffirming his commitment to transforming Plateau State through inclusive governance, economic reforms, improved security, and citizen participation.

The governor spoke on Friday during a Democracy Day Town Hall Meeting held at Crispan Hotel, Jos. The event, organized by Verified Conversations in collaboration with Inside Plateau and the Plateau State Ministry of Information, was themed “Plateau State: Beyond Elections.”

Addressing participants drawn from government institutions, civil society groups, artisans, community leaders, and citizens across the state, Mutfwang described himself as the “Chief Marketing Officer” of Plateau State, emphasizing his administration’s determination to reposition the state as a peaceful, prosperous, and investment-friendly destination.

Delivering the keynote address titled “Strengthening Democracy Through Inclusive Governance and Citizens’ Participation,” the governor stressed that democracy must go beyond periodic elections to embrace accountable leadership, active citizen engagement, and tangible development outcomes.

According to him, his administration has recorded significant progress in key sectors, including security, agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic development. He noted that these achievements were the result of deliberate policies aimed at laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.

“Over the past three years, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to building a government anchored on transparency, accountability, compassion, integrity, and responsible leadership. Through prudent management of resources and purposeful governance, we have worked diligently to restore confidence in public institutions and establish a strong foundation for sustainable development,” the governor stated.

Mutfwang further assured residents that his administration would continue to pursue policies that promote peace, economic growth, and social inclusion, while calling on citizens to remain actively involved in governance and support efforts aimed at strengthening unity and development across the state.

In his opening remarks, the Convener of Verified Conversations, Mr. Samson Omale, explained that the platform was established to promote responsible leadership and deepen citizens’ engagement in governance.

He said the initiative, which began in 2021, has evolved into a movement focused on accountability and constructive dialogue between government and the people.

“Today’s conversation is not about politics, political parties, or campaigns. It is about governance and leadership. We are here to ask questions, demand answers, and provide a platform where citizens can directly engage those entrusted with public responsibility,” Omale said.

Also speaking, the Plateau State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, said the ministry supported the initiative because it provides an independent platform for citizens to assess government performance and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development agenda.

She noted that extensive media partnerships enabled the discussions to reach audiences across Plateau State and beyond.

“What we are witnessing today is democracy in action. This platform allows citizens to engage leaders, demand accountability, and contribute to the development of our state. That is the true essence of democracy,” she said.

A panel discussion on “Unpacking the Governor’s Democracy Day Keynote on Strengthening Democracy Through Inclusive Governance and Citizens’ Participation” formed part of the event. Panelists, including Mallam Haroun Audu, Comrade Steve Aluko, Leah Hassan, Dr. Gad Shamaki, Ukandi Odey, and Chief Koppe Sylvanus Joseph, examined key issues raised in the governor’s address and explored strategies for strengthening accountability, transparency, and citizen participation.

Moderated by Mr. Ezenwa Nwagbu, the session featured robust discussions on democratic governance, civic responsibility, and sustainable development, with participants emphasizing the need for continuous dialogue between government and citizens.

Some participants at the event were given the opportunity to ask questions, while others drew the governor’s attention to the plight of market women who were chased out of their business premises without being provided with an alternative location to continue their businesses.

In his closing remarks, the Secretary to the Plateau State Government, Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, urged residents to complement government efforts by taking greater responsibility for their communities and actively contributing to the state’s development.