Yemi Kosoko in Jos
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has said his administration is pursuing a bold economic transformation agenda anchored on a resilient, private sector driven economy, with manufacturing positioned as a central pillar for industrial growth, job creation, and long term prosperity.
At an interactive breakfast meeting held at Government House, Jos, the Governor engaged manufacturers, investors, business leaders, and MSMEs in what he described as a deliberate strategy to deepen collaboration between government and the organised private sector. The forum followed recent discussions between the Governor and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, on accelerating industrial development across Plateau State.
Governor Mutfwang praised investors for sustaining confidence in Plateau despite past economic and security challenges. He said his administration is committed to creating an enabling environment through improved infrastructure, enhanced security, policy reforms, and strategic partnerships.
“Our commitment is to build a resilient and sustainable economy no longer dependent on federal allocations. The private sector remains the engine that will drive Plateau’s economic transformation,” he said.
The governor identified agribusiness as the cornerstone of Plateau’s industrialisation plan. He highlighted opportunities in potatoes, livestock, coffee, acha, horticulture, and other value chains that will supply raw materials for manufacturing while expanding jobs and export potential.
He emphasised that the state is unlocking full value chains from feedlots and dairy production to cold‑chain systems, processing, packaging, and exports describing them as major investment opportunities capable of boosting incomes and expanding the economy.
The governor added that investments in roads, electricity, digital connectivity, tourism, and hospitality are designed to reduce the cost of doing business and attract both local and foreign investors.
Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Hon. Mohammed Nyalum, described the meeting as a strategic platform for sustained dialogue between government and industry, expressing confidence that stronger collaboration will accelerate industrialisation and innovation.
Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) for Bauchi, Benue, Plateau, Gombe, and Nasarawa Branch, Mr. Ajibola Kayode-Ojo, commended the governor for initiating direct engagement with manufacturers.
He called for harmonisation of taxes to eliminate multiple taxation, improved infrastructure, and greater patronage of locally made products.
He also invited the governor to perform the ground-breaking for MAN’s proposed permanent secretariat in the state.
Governor Mutfwang later toured exhibition stands featuring food items, beverages, cosmetics, household products, and other goods produced by indigenous Plateau companies. The exhibition highlighted the growing capacity of local industries and reinforced the administration’s commitment to supporting MSMEs, promoting local content, and strengthening the manufacturing ecosystem.
