The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang , on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Annette Günther, to seek collaboration in key sectors, including healthcare, agricultural development, renewable energy, and peacebuilding for enhanced security.

During his visit to the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Abuja, Governor Mutfwang expressed appreciation to the German Government for its continued cooperation with Plateau State, particularly in capacity-building initiatives for women and youth in modern agriculture.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to participating in the upcoming Nigeria-Germany Cultural Exchange Program, scheduled for the second and third quarters of the year. According to him, this initiative will foster stronger ties between Plateau State and the German community, opening doors for greater collaboration.

Highlighting areas of potential cultural partnership, the Governor revealed that Plateau State is undertaking the reconstruction of the Luka Bentu Indoor Theatre, assuring that the project would receive significant attention this year.

On healthcare, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the state’s desire to improve its health sector by leveraging Germany’s advanced healthcare system. He sought support for manpower training and the deployment of renewable energy solutions in health facilities to enhance disease prevention and reduce maternal mortality rates.

He also announced plans, in collaboration with the Federal Government, to expand the runway of Yakubu Gowon Airport to transform it into a cargo hub for the export of vegetables and other agricultural products to Europe and beyond.

In the area of digital innovation, Governor Mutfwang disclosed that his administration is working with the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy to improve ICT infrastructure in the state. He solicited the support of the German Government in accelerating the process to create a more robust digital ecosystem.

Responding, Ambassador Annette Günther commended Governor Mutfwang for his visionary leadership and developmental strides in Plateau State. She assured him of Germany’s continued support in agriculture, peacebuilding, capacity development, and the digital economy.

She further revealed that over 4,000 farmers in Plateau State, including 40% women, have benefited from German-funded training programs designed to enhance inclusivity, efficiency, and sustainability in the agricultural value chain.

The Ambassador also highlighted Germany’s strong commitment to student exchange programs, noting that Nigeria remains the largest beneficiary of German scholarships. She encouraged Plateau State to explore these opportunities to further develop its human capital.

Speaking on peacebuilding efforts, Dr. Karin Jansen, First Secretary and Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy, stated that the German Development Agency (GIZ) is actively funding the Peace Corps Project to strengthen conflict resolution mechanisms and enhance peacebuilding efforts in the state.

Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
January 30, 2025.