The Plateau State Executive Council has approved the establishment of a Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to improve coordination of government interventions for vulnerable residents and those affected by emergencies. Governor Caleb Mutfwang presided over the council meeting at the Government House in Rayfield, Jos, on Wednesday.
New Ministry to Coordinate Humanitarian Efforts
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, announced the decision in a statement, saying the new ministry will provide a dedicated institutional framework for coordinating humanitarian assistance, social protection, and poverty-reduction programs across the state. The ministry will incorporate the activities of the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Trauma Centre, although it was not specified whether these agencies would be merged or placed under supervision.
Plateau has faced humanitarian challenges from communal violence, displacement, and other emergencies. SEMA has traditionally coordinated emergency response and relief, including aid to displaced persons. The new arrangement is expected to improve inter-agency coordination and strengthen collaboration with the federal government on humanitarian and poverty-reduction initiatives, ensuring interventions are better targeted.
Market Renovations and Security Upgrades Approved
The council also approved renovation of administrative buildings at Jos Main Market and Satellite Market to improve functionality and management. Additionally, it approved procurement and installation of solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras, plus maintenance of existing streetlights across the Jos-Bukuru metropolis. The program covers 4,029 streetlight units and 199 CCTV cameras in two phases, aimed at strengthening surveillance and public safety.
These measures come amid ongoing security concerns in Plateau, where authorities have faced pressure to improve surveillance and emergency response. The government did not specify camera locations or project timelines.
Government Commits to Inclusive Development
Mrs. Ramnap said the projects reflect the administration's commitment to protecting vulnerable residents, improving public safety, and supporting economic activities. She added the government remains dedicated to policies promoting inclusive development and sustainable growth. The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo and other council members.
