President Bola Tinubu has asked residents of troubled communities in Plateau State to forgive him for not visiting them during his previous trip. He made the appeal during the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign rally in Jos. Tinubu's visit was restricted to the airport, sparking criticism from some residents. The President expressed his condolences for the loss of lives, destruction of homes, and displacement caused by attacks in the state.
Tinubu assured those displaced that the government would rebuild their communities and help them return home. He emphasized the importance of unity, noting that differences in language and identity should not make people enemies. The President also disclosed that surveillance cameras promised for Plateau had arrived in Nigeria and would soon be installed. Additionally, 1,000 forest guards recruited by the Federal Government were undergoing training to complement existing security agencies.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who also addressed the crowd, attributed the progress recorded in Plateau and across the country to Tinubu's leadership. Shettima praised Plateau residents for their contributions to various sectors, describing them as "a gift to the nation." He urged voters to support Tinubu, Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and other APC candidates in the 2027 elections.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that the establishment of state police was in the pipeline as part of efforts to strengthen security nationwide. APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, highlighted the Federal Government's provision of surveillance cameras and forest guards as a demonstration of its security commitments to Plateau. He described Tinubu as a "promise keeper" and urged Plateau residents to support his re-election bid.
Governor Mutfwang welcomed Tinubu to Jos, describing Plateau as a home of peace and tourism with a significant place in Nigeria's political history. He thanked the President for federal support, particularly in road infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Mutfwang outlined state programs targeting employment, transportation, and security challenges, including an initiative to provide opportunities for 2,000 young people to work remotely.
The Governor expressed confidence that sustained cooperation between the state and federal governments would benefit Plateau. Mutfwang's administration has continued to explain the impact of federal initiatives to residents. The state programs aim to address the challenges faced by Plateau residents, including unemployment and insecurity.
Tinubu's visit to Plateau and his address to the residents demonstrate the government's efforts to address the security challenges and development needs of the state. The President's apology and assurance of rebuilding communities are expected to resonate with the residents. The government's initiatives, including the provision of surveillance cameras and forest guards, aim to enhance security and stability in the state.
Key points
- President Tinubu apologizes to Plateau residents for not visiting troubled communities during his previous trip.
- The government has provided surveillance cameras and 1,000 forest guards to enhance security in Plateau.
- Tinubu assures displaced residents that the government will rebuild their communities and help them return home.
