Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has sought the assistance of the Canadian Government in areas of peace building , agriculture, gender equality and capacity building.
He made the appeal at a meeting with the Canadian High Commissioner in Nigeria, Jamie Christoff at the Canadian Embassy in Abuja recently.
The Plateau State Governor expressed concern over the escalating security challenges that have negatively impacted the state, leading to deaths, displacement of innocent villagers, particularly women and children. He stressed that addressing these issues was crucial in tackling the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the state.
According to him, the Canadian Government intervention would facilitate the state’s recovery and propel it towards sustainable growth and development. Mutfwang stated that the gesture would empower rural communities to contribute significantly to the state economy.
Highlighting the historic bond between Nigeria and Canada, Governor Mutfwang underscored Plateau State’s intention to leverage on the partnership to improve the well-being of internally displaced people (IDPs), and promote gender equality.
He revealed that he intentionally appointed a woman as Deputy Governor and has also incorporated a significant number of women into governmental roles to advance gender equality within the state.
Gov. Mutfwang therefore requested for collaboration in the fields of health, education, and mineral exploration and urged the Canadian Government to leverage its extensive network to transform the current situation in Plateau State.
Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jamie Christoff in response, welcomed the governor and praised his efforts in fostering peace within the state. He acknowledged Mutfwang’s commitment to gender inclusivity as exemplified by the appointment of women into key positions .
Mr Christoff briefed the governor on the collaborative initiatives between the Canadian and Nigerian Government which he said focuses on human dignity, health and education, gender equality and women empowerment.
Others, the high commissioner noted are inclusive governance, environmental sustainability as well as humanitarian support. And affirmed Canada’s steadfast commitment to promoting peace and security in Nigeria. He pledged to collaborate closely with the Plateau State Government to improve the lives of its citizens.
– – Sympathises with Shendam people
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has conveyed his heartfelt sympathy and unwavering solidarity to the people of Shendam Local Government Area over the collapse of a bridge that affected Shendam and environs.
Disclosing this in a release signed and made available to journalists in Jos by the Director of Press and Public Affairs (DOPA), Gyang Bere, he said the governor expressed deep sorrow over the distressing incident, emphasising the significant challenges it has imposed on the communities that rely on the bridge for seamless conduct of their farming and other commercial activities.
According to the statement, Mutfwang affirmed his unwavering support for the people of Shendam and the neighbouring communities and described the incident as unfortunate.
He assured them of government’s commitment to reconstructing the bridge and restore connectivity to the impacted communities, thereby fostering economic activities.
The governor observed with concern the unfortunate re occurrence of the collapse of the bridge , which he reiterated originally was built in the 1970s.
He called for urgent need to ensure efficiency in government contracts in order to deliver value to the populace and local communities.
Mutfwang however expressed gratitude that the incident did not result in any loss of life, while also cautioning the citizens in anticipation of predicted flooding
