Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang is orchestrating a comprehensive transformation of Plateau State’s energy sector through strategic governance and groundbreaking partnerships. Recent developments showcase an administration that seamlessly blends administrative excellence with innovative energy solutions, positioning Plateau State as Nigeria’s emerging powerhouse in sustainable development.
On July 9, 2025, Governor Mutfwang presided over a pivotal ceremony at the New Government House, Jos, swearing in newly appointed Special Advisers and inaugurating key governing councils. This wasn’t merely another administrative ceremony it was the strategic deployment of expertise to drive Plateau State’s ambitious energy agenda.
The most significant appointment was Ambassador Bagudu Hirse as Chairman of the Plateau State Electricity Regulatory Commission. Governor Mutfwang described him as “a visionary who had previously led a comprehensive review of the sector.” The ceremony also saw the inauguration of the Plateau State Electricity Commission, the Energy Corporation Board, and the Committee on Carbon Sequestration for the Jatropha-to-Biofuel Project.
“We have carefully selected individuals not merely on political grounds but on the basis of competence and capacity to deliver results,” Governor Mutfwang declared.
Plateau State’s energy journey carries historical significance. “Plateau built Nigeria’s first hydroelectric station,” Governor Mutfwang noted. “With ongoing deregulation, we must rise to the challenge of providing stable power to our people.”
Building on this foundation, the state has signed a transformative Memorandum of Understanding with PowerIT Energy Limited for wind energy development across five local government areas: Langtang North, Langtang South, Wase, Shendam, Kanam, and Pankshin.
This initiative leverages Plateau State’s unique advantages. As Project Coordinator Saratu Lahora emphasized, “Plateau State has the highest wind capacity in Nigeria, especially around Langtang North.”
The wind energy project involves UK-based consultant Igho Tabor, who has been pursuing this initiative since 2021. Commissioner Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman explained: “We went out of our way to engage the consultant, Igho Tabor, who came all the way from the UK. When we discovered her, we invited her, and here we are signing the MOU.”
The collaboration between local expertise and international knowledge creates powerful synergy. Saratu Lahora bridged this gap, having connected the international consultant with the government. “Luckily for us, we’re a working government so she got to us,” she noted.
Governor Mutfwang’s vision extends beyond power generation to integrate tourism development, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment. The wind energy project incorporates tourism as a core component, while the Jatropha-to-Biofuel project positions Plateau State to benefit from global carbon credit markets.
“Developed countries expect us to absorb emissions they are unwilling to reduce,” Governor Mutfwang explained. “With Jatropha, a plant indigenous to Plateau, we have a chance to benefit economically from global climate initiatives while promoting renewable energy.”
Both the administrative appointments and energy projects emphasize grassroots involvement. The governor’s strategic realignment of Hon. Habila Mutla from Plateau United FC to head grassroots soccer development exemplifies this approach. “We are revamping our approach to sports development. Plateau has historically been a breeding ground for football talent,” he explained.
The wind energy project similarly prioritizes community engagement. As consultant Igho Tabor emphasized, “This project is really about how we rise together. Development can’t happen without the local people being part of it.”
The governor’s appointments reflect deep understanding of economic development challenges. Hon. Emmanuel Dung Gyibok’s appointment as Special Assistant on Mines addresses the need to organize informal miners into structured groups. “We must not allow our artisanal miners to be left behind in the emerging mineral economy,” Governor Mutfwang emphasized.
The wind energy project promises to catalyze economic development across participating areas. “Without electricity, there is no development. But once electricity is in place, the wheels of development start to move,” explained a project stakeholder.
Saratu Lahora’s vision captures the transformative potential: “If we can turn our wind into electricity, the whole of Plateau can be powered and that will boost industries and the economy. Life in Plateau State will generally become easier and better for everyone.”
Governor Mutfwang’s approach represents a new paradigm of leadership that prioritizes innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth. The seamless integration of strategic appointments with innovative partnerships creates a governance model that other states can emulate.
“This is a project we’re taking with utmost seriousness,” Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman noted. “That’s why you see all the local governments involved they’re here, and they’ve signed on.”
The convergence of strategic governance appointments and innovative energy partnerships under Governor Mutfwang’s leadership represents more than policy implementation it embodies a new standard for transformative leadership in Nigeria. Through careful appointments and bold partnerships, Governor Mutfwang is not just lighting up Plateau State he is illuminating the path for Nigeria’s sustainable future.
The Plateau State Government’s comprehensive approach to energy transformation stands as a shining example of what is possible when visionary leadership meets community needs, international expertise, and innovative thinking. Under Governor Mutfwang’s administration, the state is setting the standard for innovative, people-centered governance that promises to transform both communities and the future of Nigeria.