Workers’ Day: Mutfwang reaffirms commitment to restore security and civil service reform
By Yakubu Busari
The Plateau State Government has reiterated that decent work can only flourish in a secure, stable, and well-supported environment with reliable infrastructure.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, speaking at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Jos Polo Field, with the theme “Insecurity, Poverty, Bane of Decent Work,” said his administration is stepping up efforts to address the twin challenges of insecurity and poverty, which are hindering development in the state.
He was represented at the event by Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo.
According to the Governor, the government is strengthening collaboration with security agencies, the Plateau State Peace Building Agency, the Inter-Religious Advisory Council, former governors, and other stakeholders, with support from the Federal Government, to develop lasting solutions to violent attacks in communities.
He added that modern technology, including the deployment of surveillance drones, is now being used to enhance intelligence gathering and improve responses to security threats, especially in rural areas.
Governor Mutfwang explained that his administration is also tackling poverty through targeted interventions implemented by the Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) and other agencies, aimed at empowering citizens and stimulating economic activity.
He stressed that insecurity remains a significant barrier to economic growth, and both challenges are being addressed simultaneously through coordinated policies.
On public service reforms, the Governor noted that the administration has restored timely promotions for civil servants and introduced Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for promotion exams to ensure transparency and merit-based advancement.
He said the reforms are designed to restore efficiency, fairness, and integrity in the civil service.
He further disclosed that the government has made substantial progress in paying outstanding gratuities, bringing relief to retired workers, and has committed to clearing the remaining backlog.
He added that ad hoc staff in tertiary institutions have been absorbed into the mainstream workforce, while those aged 50 and above who could not be absorbed have been fairly compensated.
The Governor also highlighted ongoing digital reforms, including the installation of biometric attendance systems across ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as the digitization of personnel records through the Plateau State Civil Service Personnel Information Management System.
He said the reforms aim to improve productivity, reduce inefficiencies, and align the public service with global standards.
He urged workers to remain committed, disciplined, and professional in the discharge of their duties, noting that the success of ongoing reforms depends on both government policies and workers’ dedication.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and ongoing engagement with organized labor.
Earlier in her remarks, the Head of Civil Service, Stephen Pam Gadong, commended the ongoing construction of an ultra-modern Ministry of Justice Complex and the planned renovation of the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat Complex, describing them as steps toward improving the working environment for public servants.
He called on workers to uphold integrity and contribute meaningfully to state development.
In a joint address, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) Plateau State, Comrade Eugene Manji, and the Trade Union Congress expressed appreciation to the state government for its commitment to workers’ welfare while also highlighting pending issues requiring urgent resolution.
Also present at the event was Governor Mutfwang, represented by Caleb Mutfwang, who reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a more secure, productive, and inclusive Plateau State.
