Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has raised alarm over the dire financial situation he inherited upon assuming office, revealing that the state government had a meager 1.1 billion naira in its coffers while facing a staggering 11 billion naira in unpaid salaries.
Governor Mutfwang made these remarks during a Democracy Day program organized by the Plateau Radio Television Corporation in collaboration with the office of the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor. The event, titled “Unpacking the Time is Now Vision of HE Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang,” took place at the PRTV TV Studio in Rayfield, Jos on June 12, 2023.
In his address, Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the significant role played by Plateau State in Nigeria’s democratic history, from the time of Chief Solomon Lar to the nominations of MKO Abiola and former President Olusegun Obasanjo. However, he lamented that the state had deviated from the ideals of its founding fathers in recent years, necessitating the “Time is Now” campaign mantra during the election.
The governor highlighted the pressing challenges facing the civil service, stating that out of the 2.9 billion naira wage bill for February 2023, only 900 million naira had been paid. He disclosed that the state currently owed salaries amounting to 11 billion naira, while inheriting a mere 1.1 billion naira in government funds.
Governor Mutfwang expressed his commitment to finding solutions to these financial difficulties, stating that he refrained from pressuring workers to return to their duties until he could secure sufficient funds to pay a portion of their salaries. He assured the public that with the help of God, the situation would improve by the end of the month, enabling the payment of stipends to workers.
The governor also highlighted the shocking revelation that no security meetings had been held in the state for the past year, which he believed contributed to the recent upsurge in insecurity. He reassured citizens that he had discussed the security challenges with President Tinubu and pledged to revamp the security apparatus in Plateau State.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized the need for unity and bridge-building among communities, irrespective of tribe or faith, as the state grappled with poverty and underdevelopment. He pledged to prioritize the revitalization of the Agricultural Service and Training Centre (ASTC) to boost Agriculture and internally generated revenue.
The governor further addressed recent developments, including the dissolution of local government chairmen in the state, which he stated was an intervention made in good faith following the advice of the State House of Assembly. He also mentioned the suspension of recent recruitments by the previous administration, with ongoing investigations to ensure adherence to legal procedures.
Governor Mutfwang concluded by announcing plans to launch a Plateau rebranding project later in the year, aimed at showcasing the beauty of the state and attracting investment.
As Governor Mutfwang grapples with the financial challenges and security issues plaguing Plateau State, the public remains hopeful that his administration will take decisive action to address these pressing concerns and bring about positive change.
