FIC Report (Plateau State) – Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s commitment to fostering strategic international partnerships has begun to yield tangible benefits, as demonstrated by the recent launch of the Plateau Agro-Innovation Makerspace that took place on the 12, February, 2025.
The Governor stated that, This state-of-the-art facility, established through a collaboration between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Plateau State Government, represents a significant step towards economic growth and youth empowerment. The Makerspace is designed to equip young people with modern agricultural innovation skills, technology-driven education, and expertise in renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power. By providing access to advanced resources, the initiative aims to stimulate rural economic development and enhance productivity.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the vital role of the Makerspace in unlocking the potential of Plateau’s young population. He highlighted that the project aligns perfectly with his administration’s commitment to forming meaningful collaborations with global institutions to drive progress.
Expressing appreciation for UNDP’s support, the Governor specifically acknowledged Ms. Elsie Attafuah, UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, for selecting Plateau as the host state for this pioneering initiative. He also said that “We are deeply grateful to UNDP, led by Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah, for piloting the Integrated Development Approach here in Plateau state. We trust that this initiative will uplift our youths and connect them to global opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.
“Our administration is committed to repositioning Plateau as a hub for science, technology, and innovation. With the right team in place, we are confident that we will not only break new ground but also advance technological innovation across all sectors,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
He further urged the state’s youths to maximize the opportunities provided by the Makerspace, describing it as a game-changer that will enhance their business acumen, promote innovation, and contribute to Plateau’s economic transformation.
“This is your opportunity. This is your moment. This is your time! I sincerely appreciate UNDP for this invaluable partnership, and I look forward to building a future where our young innovators thrive. I pray that this will be the beginning of greater success stories for Plateau,” he added.
In her address, Ms. Elsie Attafuah commended Governor Mutfwang’s leadership in creating an enabling environment for economic transformation and innovation.
“We commend Governor Mutfwang for transforming Plateau into a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. His leadership has created an enabling environment for learning, trade, and technological advancement.
“Today, we celebrate the 1.8 million talented, ambitious, and productive young people of Plateau. You are the architects of Plateau’s transformation, and you must take this responsibility seriously.
“The Governor has declared that the time is now for the Plateau to shine, and that light will come from its young people. Despite global uncertainties and challenges, Africa’s youths must be given the platform to make a difference,” Ms. Attafuah stated.
She further described the Makerspace as more than just a physical structure, calling it a powerhouse of innovation, business incubation, and transformative agricultural practices.
“This is not just a building. It is a hub packed with ideas, ideas that will evolve into businesses. It is a place that will equip entrepreneurs with the tools to build enterprises and redefine agriculture on the Plateau, shifting from subsistence farming to an agribusiness model with a strong value chain,” she added.
Several dignitaries and stakeholders at the event underscored the significance of the Makerspace in driving sustainable development. Among those present were Dr. Clement Chirman, Rector of Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin-Ladi, Manji Wilson, Chief Technical Adviser on Development Partnerships and Diaspora, Dr. Cletus Baka Shurkur, Commissioner for Information, Science, and Technology, and Dr. Dominic Datong Gwaman, Director General of the Plateau State ICT Development Agency.
In a further demonstration of commitment to fostering development, Governor Mutfwang officially handed over Guest House Number 1 to UNDP to serve as their North Central office, ensuring the seamless implementation of developmental programs in the region.
With such collaborative efforts, Plateau State is poised to emerge as a leading center for innovation and economic transformation in Nigeria.
Signed
IDI, SALAMA PEACE,
Senior Information Officer,
For: Head of centre,
FIC, Jos.
