Plateau State Governor, Caleb Muftwang, has commended ongoing efforts to strengthen local government structures across the state, emphasizing that effective governance must begin at the grassroots level. Speaking with conviction shaped by his own experience as a former chairman of Mangu Local Government Area, Muftwang said that local governments must be both functional and efficient if true development is to be achieved.
According to the governor, no society can thrive in the absence of strong local governance. “True development, in my view, can only take root when our local governments are functioning efficiently. Without them, people essentially live in a stateless society,” he said.
He stressed that synergy between the federal, state, and local governments is vital, not just in terms of autonomy, but in achieving tangible results. Muftwang urged a shift in focus toward efficiency, accountability, and the real-time delivery of democratic dividends to the people.
Calling on local government officials to rise to the occasion, the governor emphasized that leadership is not about occupying office but about purposeful service. “It would be a tragedy if, at the end of their tenure, all that is remembered is that they merely occupied space. We must do better,” he warned.
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Reflecting on his own leadership journey, Muftwang expressed a deep desire to leave behind a legacy that inspires gratitude. He encouraged public officials to embrace their responsibilities with sincerity, humility, and a selfless mindset that places the people above personal interest. “Let us put God first, the people second, and ourselves last,” he urged.
Muftwang also noted that signs of progress are emerging across Plateau State, pointing to improved governance, increased citizen engagement, and renewed hope for inclusive development. He described these changes as answers to the prayers of the people and called on leaders at all levels to rise to the moment with courage and clarity of purpose.
As Plateau State continues its journey toward rebuilding and revitalizing its institutions, Muftwang made it clear that the success of this transformation rests heavily on the shoulders of visionary, committed, and people-focused leadership at the local level.