From Jude Dangwam, Jos

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has approved the revitalization of long-abandoned road projects dating back to 2014, marking a significant step towards the transformation of the neglected state’s infrastructural needs by the last administration.

The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt.

She noted that the initiative is part of Governor Mutfwang administration’s resolve to enhance infrastructural development of the state, improve the safety of citizens, as well as boost agriculture, and foster economic growth through a smart quality road network across the state.

“Roads to receive attention include the Rukuba-Miango-Farin Lamba road with a spur to Dochai and Kent Academy-School of Accountancy and Kpen Ryen in Bassa Local Government Area.

“In Pankshin and Kanke Local Government Areas, roads approved for construction include the Gungji-Shiwer-Dokpai road with a spur to Tiplink.

“In addition, the Jibam-Dokan-Kasuwa-Baap Kurgwi road, with a spur to Lardang Bwall-Kwoor and Tim road connecting Pankshin and Qua’an Pan Local Government Areas, has also been approved by the Governor.” Ramnap noted

The Commissioner also disclosed that about 10 roads networks have been earmarked for construction within the metropolitan city capital. “Jos North and Jos East will witness massive road construction on the NDLEA-Zarazong-Fobur route.

“The Governor has also approved the rehabilitation of 10 major roads within the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis, including vital routes in Bukuru and other urban areas, to be handled by the State Road Maintenance Agency.” She stated

The commissioner maintained that the efforts are set to address long-neglected infrastructure, revitalize Plateau’s roads to enhance trade and improve travelling across the state.

In addition to the road projects, the Governor instructed the Ministry of Works to conduct a thorough inspection of the Wase-Langtang Bridge, which collapsed due to damages caused by an overloaded truck.

Ramnap added that although the bridge is part of the federal road network, the proactive inspection is crucial for assessing the damage and enabling the state to engage with the federal government for prompt repairs.

“This step is vital, as the rainy season approaches, so ensuring repairs are expedited to prevent further disruptions of activities along the area is very important,” Ramnap explained.

She said the state Executive Council in order to further support agricultural development in the state, “the Executive Council also approved the procurement of 6,300 tons of assorted fertilizers for farmers. This initiative will ease the financial burden of farming inputs and ensure a productive 2025 farming season.

“The introduction of a new digital system will streamline the identification of farmers and distribution of fertilizers, ensuring efficiency in resource allocation,” she assured citizens of the state

She stressed that the Governor also reinforced his commitment to environmental safety and public welfare by upholding the suspension of mining activities across the state, as stipulated under Executive Order 001 of 2025.

“This decision is in response to the escalating environmental damage and safety risks posed by illegal mining operations. The Governor’s decision follows a tragic incident in Kwang, where a house collapsed due to underground mining activities. To address these challenges, a technical committee will be formed to regulate mining, promote mining cooperatives, and ensure that artisan miners are trained and licensed,” Ramnap hinted.

The Executive Council also approved the formation of a committee to collect accurate data on the number of school drop-outs from across Plateau State in a move to address the issue of out-of-school children bedeviling the state.

She said the initiative is aimed at bridging the gaps in the educational system and ensuring that every child has access to quality education in the state.

Speaking on the construction of roads, the Commissioner of Works, Hon. Joshua Laven emphasized the need for thorough assessment and proactive measures. “The state government will assess the damage on the Wase-Langtang collapsed bridge and engage the Federal Ministry of Works properly,” he noted.