Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has announced plans to recruit more than 1,000 youths into the state’s community security outfit, Operation Rainbow, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peace and security.
Mutfwang made the disclosure on Sunday during a thanksgiving service at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Jos, to mark the commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year.
The service was attended by judicial officers, members of the clergy, and legal practitioners.
“By the grace of God, we will soon recruit over 1,000 youths who will be deployed back to their communities as both the first and last line of defense, complementing conventional security agencies,” the governor said.
He stressed the need for collective action against those benefitting from insecurity.
“We must resist those who profit from unrest and disunity. Plateau deserves lasting peace, and we are committed to ensuring it,” he added.
On the judiciary, Mutfwang praised judicial officers for their resilience despite resource constraints.
“When we assumed office, we met a judiciary weighed down by challenges. Yet, you have remained steadfast, discharging your duties with courage and dignity,” he said.
He also disclosed that his administration had commenced the payment of outstanding entitlements owed to retired judges.
“Though the process is ongoing, it has begun, and by God’s grace, it will be completed,” he assured.
Cautioning judges on the use of discretion, he remarked: “Judicial discretion used judiciously serves the ends of justice. But discretion abused will weigh heavily on a man’s conscience.”
The governor further emphasized the role of unity among Christians in driving Plateau’s progress.
“The body of Christ is one, and what binds us together is the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross of Calvary,” he said.
In his homily, the Parish Priest of St. Theresa Catholic Church, Very Rev. Fr. Paul Pam, urged Christians to live righteous lives anchored in faith. “True peace anchored in Christ gives hope and direction,” he said.
He also prayed for Nigerian leaders, asking God to guide them toward addressing the hardships facing citizens.
Fr. Pam commended Governor Mutfwang’s peacebuilding and infrastructure efforts.
“God will reward your commitment to unity and development across all sectors,” he stated.
Chief Judge of Plateau State, Justice David Mann, also expressed gratitude for the judiciary’s preservation over the past year and prayed for wisdom and guidance in the new legal year.
