Plateau govt, Athena Centre partner to strengthen local governance capacity

The Government of Plateau State commenced a transformative retreat for local government chairmen and executive councils in partnership with the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership.

The event, held under the theme “That Plateau May Shine”, was declared open by His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and featured a keynote address by Osita Chidoka, Chancellor of the Athena Centre and former Minister of Aviation.

The retreat, holding at the Miango Rest House, marks the first step in a long-term collaboration between Athena and the Plateau State Government to retool the state’s workforce and reimagine governance at the grassroots level.

Tĥe Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Ephraim Usman Gar, stated in his welcome address that the retreat “forms part of a strategic commitment to align local government operations with the Plateau State Development Framework (PSDF 2023–2027) and deliver tangible outcomes in public service delivery.”

“The time is now to build a productive, peaceful, and prosperous Plateau State,” said Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

“This retreat represents a turning point in our governance journey. We are committed to building institutions that deliver real value to the people, starting from our local governments.”

During the retreat, participants will participate in strategic planning, financial performance, intergovernmental collaboration, and revenue innovation sessions. The aim is to equip local leaders with the tools and frameworks to deliver sustainable development outcomes.

In his keynote, Osita Chidoka stressed the importance of visionary and technically grounded governance:

“Athena Centre is proud to serve as a leading hub for governance innovation and thought leadership,” Chidoka stated.

Chidoka said: “This partnership with Plateau State reflects our commitment to supporting subnational governments that are ready to lead with clarity and purpose. We are building a new culture of local governance — one anchored on accountability, data, and delivery.”

As the retreat progresses, the Athena Centre will continue to support Plateau State in institutionalising a results-oriented approach across local government systems. This initiative reinforces the Centre’s role in reshaping governance practice in Nigeria and the wider region.

“This is only the beginning,” Governor Mutfwang added. “With partners like the Athena Centre, we are confident that Plateau State will serve as a national example of subnational transformation.”

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