The Plateau State Government has advanced its digital transformation agenda with the inauguration of a Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) in partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI). The ceremony, held at the Twin Theater of the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos, marks a major milestone in shaping the state’s technology-driven future.
Inaugurating the JTWG, His Excellency, Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, described the partnership as a historic turning point with transformative potential for Plateau’s youths.
“ICT has been a long-standing priority for us, but with this collaboration, we can now anticipate concrete milestones that will fast-track e-governance, e-commerce, and other ICT-driven opportunities in Plateau State,” the Governor declared.
Governor Mutfwang commended DBI’s President, Mr. David Dasar, for facilitating the siting of the Institute’s campus in Plateau and expressed appreciation to the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy for supporting the initiative. He pledged full government backing, stating:
“We are eager to see deliverables within the shortest possible time. Whatever we need to do as a government to make this succeed, we shall do, by the grace of God.”
The newly inaugurated JTWG includes: Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, Secretary to the Government of the State; Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, Commissioner of Science and Technology; Hon. Grace Shwarta Dongkum, Commissioner of Finance; Mr. Dominic Datong, Director General of PICTDA; and Mr. Manji Wilson, Chief Technical Adviser to the Governor on Development Partnership, Strategic Linkages, and Diaspora Engagement.
In his remarks, Mr. Dasar explained that DBI is restructuring into a national digital institute with a statutory mandate, positioning Plateau as a key beneficiary of future funding opportunities. He emphasized that DBI’s presence would unlock access to donor-funded scholarships, advanced training, and international outsourcing opportunities for youths in Plateau.
Linking the initiative to the Federal Government’s Talent City Project and the planned fiber optic expansion, Dasar noted that Plateau is strategically positioned to emerge as a regional hub for digital jobs and innovation. He further urged the Plateau State House of Assembly to expedite the passage of the Nigerian Startup Act, describing it as a critical gateway for funding the state’s growing technology ecosystem.
On behalf of the JTWG, Arc. Samuel Jatau assured the Governor and partners of the group’s commitment:
“We will do our best to ensure that within the shortest possible time, this partnership becomes a reality.”
Earlier that day, Governor Mutfwang also received a delegation from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), supported by the European Union. The delegation, led by Dr. Emmanuel Uche, briefed the Governor on the progress of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme in Plateau State.
Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to institutional reforms, Governor Mutfwang said:
“We believe in building strong institutions and capacities so that our successes today can be sustained beyond our administration. We are determined to do the right things, at the right time, guided by transparency and accountability.”
Dr. Uche praised Plateau’s reform-minded approach and highlighted RoLAC’s three core pillars: strengthening criminal justice administration, improving access to justice for vulnerable groups, and promoting transparency and accountability in governance. He commended Plateau’s progress in criminal justice and access to justice while noting the solid foundation being laid for stronger anti-corruption frameworks.