By Israel Langtang 

JOS — Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property amid renewed security challenges in parts of the state.

Mutfwang said his government would deploy every lawful means at its disposal to confront banditry, criminality and other threats to the safety of residents.

The governor made the remarks on Sunday while speaking at the 2026 Plateau Annual Convention of the General Council of the Assemblies of God Nigeria, North East Zone, held at the Assemblies of God Nigeria, Jos District Headquarters, Gyel, along the Bukuru Expressway in Jos South Local Government Area.

The convention was held under the theme, “Breaking Barriers into Your Next Level.”

Mutfwang said the security situation remained a major challenge but insisted that his administration would not abandon its responsibility to protect the people.

“I cannot abandon my responsibility of securing the people of Plateau State. We will protect our people with all that we have, within the ambit of the law,” he said.

The governor said the state government had continued to work with security agencies to confront perpetrators of violence and restore lasting peace across Plateau.

He acknowledged the broader security difficulties confronting Nigeria but expressed confidence in the ability of citizens to overcome the challenges through resilience and collective action.

According to him, Plateau would not be defeated by violence.

“Plateau State will not be defeated by violence or the gun. We must remain united because our collective strength is critical to overcoming the challenges confronting us,” Mutfwang said.

His comments come against the backdrop of renewed attacks reported in parts of Plateau State, where security concerns have continued to affect communities and raise questions about the protection of lives and property.

Beyond security operations, Mutfwang called for greater unity among residents, urging citizens to reject divisions and what he described as the tendency to pull one another down.

He particularly appealed to Christian leaders to promote reconciliation, peace and unity, saying religious leaders had an important role to play in strengthening social cohesion.

“As Christian leaders, we must rise above our differences. We must put aside bitterness, unforgiveness and arrogance,” he said.

He urged them to embrace humility, love and reconciliation, describing those values as central to Christian teaching.

Mutfwang also spoke about his motivation for entering politics, saying his involvement was driven by a desire to serve God and humanity.

He said his administration remained committed to changing what he described as the negative narrative about Plateau State while pursuing development and improving the welfare of residents.

“I went into politics because I wanted to serve God and humanity. We will continue to do everything within our capacity to change the narrative about Plateau State,” he said.

The governor also expressed appreciation to the Assemblies of God Nigeria for its prayers, support and contributions to peace and development in the state.

He commended the church for its spiritual and moral role in society, urging it to continue promoting renewal and positive values.

Speaking at the event, Rev. Jacob Langs, Executive Council member representing the North East Zone, thanked Mutfwang for attending the convention.

Langs also acknowledged what he described as the governor’s contributions to the development of Plateau State and the Assemblies of God Nigeria, including opportunities and appointments extended to church members and the Gyel community.

Mutfwang's renewed pledge places security and unity at the centre of his administration's response to the state's continuing challenges, while residents remain focused on the effectiveness of measures being taken to protect vulnerable communities and restore lasting peace.

What happens next: The implementation of security measures, coordination with security agencies and the government's response to further incidents will remain important indicators of how the administration's renewed commitment translates into protection for affected communities.