As Nigeria celebrates Democracy Day, the Plateau Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, on Thursday unveiled 15 new metro buses as part of a broader effort to revive the state’s public transportation system.
The governor also commissioned other projects executed by his administration, including the laboratory, paediatric ward, and Office complex at the Plateau State Specialist Hospital in Jos, Utonkon Bridge and adjoining roads along Utonkon–Abattoir road in Jos, and a storey administrative block. He refurbished Joshua Dariye Hall, Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi, Jos Campus.
We can recall that the governor had, last year, commissioned the first set of 15 Metro Buses to mark his first year in office, bringing the total number to 30 buses.
Speaking at the commissioning event to mark June 12, Governor Mutfwang expressed gratitude to God for reviving the Plateau Express Service, one of the state’s legacy institutions that had faced numerous challenges over the years.
He noted that the last time the service operated effectively was under the previous People’s Democratic Party (PDP) administration and proudly stated that the current PDP-led government is realigning with national initiatives.
Mutfwang highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s charge to governors to alleviate citizens’ suffering, especially following the removal of the fuel subsidy. He said that the transport sector was identified as a key area to directly pass benefits back to the people.
The governor announced that Plateau Express Service was now a functional transport system within the Jos metropolis, already benefiting residents and boosting mobility across the state. The governor recalled the overwhelming joy and excitement that greeted the arrival of the new buses.
“Plateau Express Service began many years ago and has gone through numerous challenges. But I am proud to say that the last time Plateau Express truly served the people of Plateau was under the last PDP administration. And today, again, under a PDP-led government, we are proud to align with the initiatives of Mr. President.
“When Mr. President came into the office, he charged governors across the country to do everything possible to alleviate the suffering of the people. We believed one of the key sectors to address the challenges brought by the removal of fuel subsidies was transport. And so, we decided that the best way to bring subsidies directly back to the people was through the transport sector. I’m glad to say that today, we now have a functional transport service within the metropolis, benefiting our people immensely”, he said.
Commending the leadership of Plateau Express, Governor Mutfwang said the success proves that institutions thrive under clear, patriotic leadership.
Besides the transport service, he revealed ongoing efforts to revive other institutions, including ASTC (Plateau State Transport Corporation), Jos International Breweries, Payam Fish Farm, Hill Station Hotel, and Plateau Hotel.
A historic moment at the event was the introduction of the first female driver for the Plateau Express buses. The governor shared his pride in supporting female empowerment, recalling how he sent nine boys and three girls for automotive training during his tenure as a local government chairman.
He reiterated that the new buses were purchased brand new, not used “Tokunbo” vehicles, and were funded from the state’s constitutional allocations, not federal grants or donations. He noted it was made possible by reallocating resources and prioritising the transport sector over luxury purchases for other ministries.
Looking ahead, he revealed plans for “Plateau Express 3.0,” signalling continued expansion and modernisation. He also highlighted partnerships to upgrade Jos Airport into an international cargo hub and ongoing talks with the federal government to improve railway infrastructure.
He called on all residents to protect the investment for the benefit of current and future generations, stressing that development must take precedence over politics.
“These projects reflect the administration’s drive toward infrastructural renewal and enhanced public service delivery for the people of Plateau State,” Mutfwang added
