By Israel Adamu, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, has urged Middle Belt nationalities to rebuild unity, strengthen inclusion, and embrace a shared identity, stressing that only a united Middle Belt can achieve political relevance, economic growth, and lasting social stability.
Governor Mutfwang made the call during the 2025 end-of-year celebration of the Forum of Plateau Middle Belt Ethnic Nationalities Leader, held at the Government House Banquet Hall, Little Rayfield, Jos. The event brought together ethnic nationalities from the Middle Belt region resident in Plateau State.The colourful gathering featured participants from across the 16 Middle Belt states, adorned in traditional attire and showcasing cultural songs and dances that symbolised unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. Addressing the audience, the governor described the event as more than a social celebration, noting that it was a strategic effort to revive the Middle Belt’s collective struggle for recognition, identity, and sustainable development.
Mutfwang paid tribute to the contributions and sacrifices of past Middle Belt leaders, including J.S. Tarka, Solomon Lar, Rev. Lot, and Patrick Dokotri, acknowledging their roles in laying the foundation for the region’s political consciousness and advocacy. “Unity is not optional for us; it is the foundation of our political strength, economic prosperity, and social harmony,” the governor said. He added that genuine unity must be rooted in equity, fairness, and inclusion, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or place of origin.The governor assured the gathering of his administration’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and enabling environment where all ethnic nationalities can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the development of Plateau State.
In his keynote address, Professor Yusuf Turaki, represented by Rev. Dr. Gideon Paramallam, commended Governor Mutfwang for articulating a clear and purposeful vision for the Middle Belt. He urged stakeholders to set aside differences and support initiatives that strengthen collective identity and regional cooperation.Turaki stressed that unity among Middle Belt nationalities remains critical in addressing shared challenges, including insecurity, marginalisation, and underdevelopment.
Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Hon. Dan Kwada, who facilitated the event, said the gathering reflected the administration’s resolve to foster inclusion and ensure that all Middle Belt ethnic groups feel a sense of belonging. According to him, the government remains committed to promoting unity across religious, linguistic, and cultural lines in Plateau State and the wider Middle Belt region.
Hon. Kwada praised Governor Mutfwang’s leadership style and dedication to Middle Belt unity, describing him as a leading voice for the region. He called on other political and traditional leaders to emulate the governor’s inclusive approach.Leaders of the Forum of Middle Belt Nationalities, the Plateau Indigenous Development Association Network (PIDAN), and representatives of other ethnic groups also reaffirmed their commitment to unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective progress.They expressed optimism that renewed solidarity among Middle Belt nationalities would translate into improved security, stronger political collaboration, and accelerated development across the region.
