By Ibrahim Yusuf Dembo.

20th June 2025.

The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Plateau State, was previously non-operational with defined functions but little output. However, under Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s “Time is Now” administration, the ministry has been revitalized.

With Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman as Commissioner, a workaholic leader with deep local understanding, the ministry is now delivering results. This new era marks a significant shift from the past eighteen years of inactivity, bringing renewed hope and progress to the state’s local government system and traditional institutions. Effective governance is now a hallmark of the ministry.Ephraim Usman possesses a deep understanding of local dynamics, knowing how the locals are handled and their genuine needs.

As a scion of traditional rulers and holder of the esteemed title Garkuwan Baghinto, reserved for prominent community individuals, he brings valuable insight and credibility to his role, effectively bridging traditional and modern governance.The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Plateau State, had long been perceived as unattractive and relegated to less capable individuals.

However, with the appointment of Chief Ephraim Usman, a vibrant and energetic leader with a local perspective, the ministry has undergone a significant transformation. He has demonstrated a keen understanding of the establishment, identifying and addressing previously neglected fundamental activities, thereby revitalizing the ministry and restoring its relevance.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND CHIEFTAINCY AFFAIRS, PLATEAU STATE.Under the leadership of Governor Mutfwang’s “Time is Now” administration, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Plateau State, has achieved significant milestones. Here are some of the notable accomplishments under Commissioner Hon. Ephraim Usman.

1. CLEARANCE OF SALARY AND PENSION ARREARS: The administration inherited ₦5.6 billion in Local Government Workers and Primary School Teachers’ salaries and pension arrears, which have now been fully cleared.

2. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT: The Ministry’s headquarters and Pankshin Zonal Office have been remodeled and furnished.

3. SECURITY ENHANCEMENT: 35 Hilux vehicles have been purchased for Security Agencies in the state, in collaboration with the 17 Local Government Councils.

4. TRANSPORTATION: A Coaster Bus was procured for PLASU, Bokkos, through ALGON.

5. SUPERVISION AND MONITORING: Vehicles have been purchased for the 5 Zonal Offices and Headquarters.

6. PROJECT INSPECTION: The Ministry conducted a project inspection of the 17 Local Government Councils.

7. STAFF DEVELOPMENT: The Ministry has conducted workshops and seminars to enhance staff capacity.

8. AGRICULTURAL SUPPORT: Assorted fertilizers have been purchased for rural farmers, in conjunction with the 17 Local Government Councils.

9. TRAINING AND CAPACITY BUILDING: The Local Government Service Commission trained staff across all departments in the 17 Local Government Councils.

10. STAFF PROMOTION: All pending staff promotions were carried out across the 17 LGCs.

11. CHIEFTAINCY MATTERS: The Ministry conducted selections and coronations for various chiefdoms.(a) Selection and Coronation of the new Ngolong Ngas on First Class Status. (b) The Selection and Coronation of the new Mwo Youm of Garkawa on Second Class Status. (c) The Selection of the new Long Kwo of Kwo Chiefdom awaiting coronation.

12. APPOINTMENT LETTERS: Districts and Village Heads who completed selection exercises but were not issued appointment letters by the previous administration have now received them.These achievements demonstrate the ministry’s commitment to effective governance and community development.