News
Plateau State Marks Democracy Day with Landmark Project Commissionings Across Key Sectors
Plateau State commemorated this year’s Democracy Day with a wave of major infrastructure and social development projects, signaling a renewed commitment by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s administration to delivering impactful governance under the “Time is Now” agenda.
The governor led a series of project commissionings spanning transportation, healthcare, education, and public infrastructure, underscoring the administration’s determination to translate democratic ideals into measurable improvements in the lives of citizens.
At the Old Government House in Rayfield, Governor Mutfwang flagged off 15 newly procured Tin City Metro Buses under a revitalized Plateau Express Service. The initiative, aimed at improving intra-city transportation, offers residents safe, affordable, and reliable mobility at a subsidized flat rate of ₦400 per ride—a major relief amid rising transport costs.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Davou Jatau Gyang, said the intervention could help regular commuters save up to ₦50,000 monthly, and emphasized that the buses were fully funded by the state government, reflecting transparency and accountability.
Governor Mutfwang further revealed plans to deepen transport infrastructure through the construction of a new airport terminal, revival of railway services, and strategic partnerships with Chinese investors.
In the health sector, the state government commissioned a state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory, pediatric ward, and modern administrative block at the Plateau State Specialist Hospital. The facilities, equipped with medical devices worth over ₦2 billion, also mark the rollout of an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system—ushering in a new era of digitized healthcare delivery in the state.
Chief Medical Director, Prof. Christopher Yilgwan, hailed the projects as a turnaround for previously abandoned facilities, noting that they now meet global standards and may help reduce medical tourism by providing top-tier services within the state.
At Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi, the governor commissioned a new administrative building and renovated multipurpose hall named after former Governor Joshua Dariye. The visit also highlighted the institution’s recent reaccreditation success across various departments.
Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Elizabeth Wapkuk, expressed optimism over the institution’s trajectory, while Governor Mutfwang announced plans to upgrade the polytechnic into a University of Science and Technology. He reassured staff that those with valid appointments would retain their jobs amid ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening academic excellence.
The governor also inaugurated the newly completed Utonkon Bridge and connecting roads at the Utonkon Abattoir axis. The project, he said, would enhance agricultural logistics, improve travel safety, and stimulate economic activity in the surrounding rural communities.
A standout moment during the day’s events came when Governor Mutfwang introduced one of the newly recruited female Metro Bus drivers—a beneficiary of a mechanical training program he had sponsored years ago. Her transition from a vocational trainee to a public transport professional was highlighted as a symbol of the administration’s focus on youth and women empowerment.
Rivers United FC have confirmed that members of the club’s contingent were involved in a road traffic accident while traveling to Awka, Anambra State, for their President Federation Cup Round of 16 clash against Nasarawa United.
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Sports247 reports that according to a statement released by the club on Thursday, the incident occurred along the Obiri-Ikwerre Airport Road on the outskirts of Port Harcourt shortly after the team departed from its camp en route to the crucial cup fixture.
While the accident caused understandable concern among supporters and stakeholders, the club confirmed that there were no fatalities or life-threatening injuries. Some players and officials sustained minor injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
The club stated that all affected individuals are in stable condition and are being closely monitored by the team’s medical personnel.
In its official communication, Rivers United emphasized that the safety, health, and welfare of players and officials remain the club’s highest priority. Management is continuing to assess the situation while ensuring that everyone involved receives the necessary care and support.
The incident comes as Rivers United prepare for an important Federation Cup encounter, with the club now expected to review its travel and match arrangements in light of the accident.
The club also expressed gratitude to supporters, partners, and members of the football community for their prayers, concern, and messages of support following news of the incident.
Further information regarding the team’s travel plans and the status of the Round of 16 fixture against Nasarawa United is expected to be communicated by the club in due course.
The development serves as a reminder of the challenges often faced by football teams traveling across the country for domestic competitions. Fortunately, the absence of serious injuries means the focus can now shift toward the recovery of those affected and preparations for upcoming fixtures.
For now, the Rivers United family will be relieved that what could have been a far more tragic incident ended without loss of life, with players and officials expected to recover fully from the minor injuries sustained.
The thoughts of the Nigerian football community remain with Rivers United as the club navigates this difficult moment and looks ahead to its Federation Cup campaign.
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