The Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has urged Nigeria’s academic community to elevate agricultural research to the status of a national emergency and a shared civic duty, stressing that the country’s food security crisis demands urgent, research-driven solutions.
A statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, said Governor Mutfwang made the call on Monday while receiving the National Leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), in Jos, for the Union’s 18th National Delegates Conference.
Welcoming the delegates, he said their choice of Plateau State for such a high-profile gathering reflects a “clear expression of confidence” in his administration’s efforts to consolidate peace and rebuild public trust.
“Plateau is proud to host you. Your decision to convene here underscores the improving security trajectory we are sustaining through the collective commitment of our security agencies and citizens,” he said, noting the state’s renewed profile as a safe and hospitable venue for national events.
Governor Mutfwang challenged Nigerian academics to champion a transformative research culture focused on productivity, food sufficiency, and technology transfer.
“It is no longer acceptable that a nation with our endowments continues to import what it should be exporting. Research must now become the engine room of our agricultural revival,” he stressed, describing academics as key partners in designing sustainable national solutions.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to educational reform, the Governor restated plans to upgrade Plateau State Polytechnic into a full-fledged Technical University.
He argued that the long-standing distinction between universities and polytechnics is obsolete.
“The artificial wall between polytechnics and universities has outlived its usefulness. Both institutions are powered by the same intellectual capital.
“It is time to dismantle that wall and embrace a forward-looking, innovation-driven model,” he said.
He highlighted the institution’s rapid growth, noting that student enrolment had increased from 3,000 to 8,000 within his first year in office, progress he attributed to strategic investments in accreditation, staffing, and institutional leadership.
“These achievements may not dominate headlines, but they represent the silent progress that defines our governance philosophy,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang also called for unity and purposeful action in tackling Nigeria’s challenges, especially insecurity.
“This is not a season for name-calling. It is a season for action. Our country needs problem-solvers, not blame merchants,” he said, urging academics to provide knowledge-based contributions rather than inflame divisions.
Earlier, ASUP National President, Comrade Shammah Kpanja, commended the Governor for restoring stability and purposeful leadership in Plateau State.
He praised the appointment of Dr. Clement Chairman as the Rector of Plateau State Polytechnic appealed for a review of the institution’s enabling law as well as improved staff welfare.
