Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has congratulated the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Philemon Audu Daffi, on his elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Mutfwang described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of Daffi’s dedication to the legal profession, commitment to justice and exemplary service to Plateau State.
The Governor spoke on Monday at a reception held in Daffi’s honour at De Rainbow Event Marquee, Garki, Area 8, Abuja.
He said the elevation reflected Daffi’s professional diligence, devotion to God and determination to use the law to address societal challenges and advance justice.
According to the governor, the achievement was not merely a personal milestone for Daffi but also a source of pride for Plateau State, expressing confidence that the recognition would strengthen his contributions to justice administration, institutional development and the state’s progress.
Daffi was among 67 legal practitioners elevated to the rank of SAN, alongside an academic, Professor Nnamdi Onyeka Obiaraeri, bringing the total number of newly elevated individuals to 68.
They were sworn in by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, during the ceremony marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year.
Mutfwang also congratulated other newly elevated Senior Advocates, particularly those residing in Plateau State, while commending Daffi’s diligence, passion for justice and commitment to duty at the state’s Ministry of Justice.
He noted that those who had worked closely with the Attorney-General understood his exceptional work ethic and results-oriented approach to public service.
“Those who have worked with him know that you have to double up to catch up with him,” the governor remarked.
Mutfwang described the elevation as the beginning of greater responsibility rather than the culmination of Daffi’s professional journey, urging him to use the honour to strengthen the justice system and serve humanity with renewed dedication.
He challenged lawyers of Plateau origin to pursue professional excellence through integrity, discipline, intellectual depth and an unwavering commitment to justice.
The governor recalled G.S. Pwul as the first indigenous lawyer from Plateau State to attain the SAN rank, expressing satisfaction that other legal practitioners from the state had since achieved the distinction.
He urged young lawyers to draw inspiration from the achievements of their predecessors, stressing that hard work, consistency and ethical conduct remained essential to professional success.
Mutfwang also commended the Ministry of Justice for exploring productive ventures beyond its conventional responsibilities, citing its fish-farming initiative as an example of innovation, enterprise and sustainable development within public institutions.
He acknowledged the support of Daffi’s wife, noting that her prayers, encouragement and moral support had contributed to her husband’s professional journey.
He assured the Senior Advocate of the state government’s continued support as he assumes greater responsibilities.
In his response, Daffi expressed gratitude to God, the governor, colleagues, family members, friends and other dignitaries who attended the reception.
He described his elevation as a call to greater service and an obligation to contribute to justice administration and human wellbeing.
The Attorney-General paid tribute to his 95-year-old father, a retired Regimental Sergeant Major of the Nigerian Army, whom he credited with instilling in him discipline, focus, courage, commitment and the fear of God.
He solicited continued prayers for himself and his family, acknowledging that the new status came with greater expectations and responsibilities.
“God raises people for specific purposes. My elevation should translate into practical efforts to address the challenges confronting the justice sector and improve the lives of the people,” he said.
Daffi also described Mutfwang as his leader and brother, thanking him for his presence, encouragement and support.
He extended his appreciation to members of the State Executive Council, legal practitioners and the media for celebrating the milestone with him.
Among those who attended the reception were Plateau State Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Naalong Daniel; Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Nanchang Jatau; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Jeremiah Satmark; and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN.
Also present were the Mishkaham Mwaghavul, Da. John Putmang Hirse, members of the State Executive Council, heads of ministries, departments and agencies, local government chairmen, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, other legal practitioners and distinguished guests.
Credit: Gyang Bere
