By Isreal Adamu, Jos
Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, has commended the Plateau State Government for donating a brand-new 36-seater bus to alleviate the transportation challenges faced by its staff and students.
The bus, presented on January 10, arrived mere hours after the university formally sought the government’s intervention. This quick response highlights the administration’s commitment to addressing pressing issues, as noted by Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The donation was facilitated by the 17 local government councils in Plateau State, coordinated by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ephraim Usman. The bus was handed over to the university management at the old government house in Jos.
Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Shedrack Best explained that many university staff and students live in Jos—approximately 40 miles away—due to limited accommodation in Bokkos, creating significant transportation hurdles.
“This situation affects the university’s service delivery, as staff must commute daily between Jos and Bokkos,” Prof. Best stated.
Governor Mutfwang lauded the collaborative efforts of the local government councils, emphasizing the importance of synergy in governance.
“The state and local governments must prioritize efficiency over autonomy. Collaboration and teamwork are vital for progress,” the governor remarked.
He also reiterated the administration’s dedication to supporting the university’s growth, stating, “PLASU deserves every support to achieve its rightful position among Nigeria’s universities.”
A statement from PLASU’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Masara Kim, highlighted the institution’s challenges. Over 95% of its workforce currently commutes from Jos, a situation exacerbated by safety concerns following the December 2023 crisis.
“We have depended heavily on vehicular transport for our staff, but the crisis has worsened this reliance,” Prof. Best noted. “This donation is a crucial step toward addressing our transportation needs.”
The Acting VC also appealed for further support, urging the government to provide additional buses capable of navigating the difficult road conditions to Bokkos.
“The buses operating in the metropolis are not suited for the roads leading to our university. We need vehicles designed for these terrains to ensure our staff and students benefit fully from this initiative,” he added.
Prof. Best expressed hope that this intervention would be the first of many aimed at improving the university’s operational efficiency and welfare.
