Effective Leadership Must be Rooted in Conscience, not Convenience_Governor Mutfwang.

In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to transformational, values-based governance—one that prioritizes the wellbeing of citizens and sustainable development over political expediency.

Governor Mutfwang made this known while receiving executives and members of the Haggai Institute, Plateau State Chapter, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Jos. A proud alumnus of the Institute, the Governor credited Haggai with helping shape his approach to public service and deepening his conviction that faith can and should play a role in national transformation.

“Leadership is not merely about holding office. It must be transformative, and true transformation begins with conscience,” the Governor declared. “If we lack people of conscience across the arms of government, whether directors, permanent secretaries, legislators, or judges, our system cannot function effectively.”

Reflecting on his experience with the Haggai Institute, Governor Mutfwang described it as a pivotal moment in his life. “Haggai was a turning point,” he said. “It challenged us to see Christianity not just within the four walls of a church but as a call to influence society with integrity, purpose, and courage.”

He emphasized that effective leadership must be anchored in conscience rather than convenience, warning that the absence of morally sound leadership is a major reason for underdevelopment in many societies.

The Governor expressed concern over the erosion of societal values, particularly among the youth, lamenting the rise of get-rich-quick ideologies that diminish the value of education and honest labour. “We are raising a generation that is beginning to question the worth of education because those celebrated in society often did not pass through its rigours. That’s dangerous,” he cautioned.

Governor Mutfwang also highlighted the school dropouts crisis, especially in mining communities, as one of the key issues his administration is addressing through reforms and targeted interventions.

He further spoke about the increasing number of out-of-school children, particularly Almajiris, stating that they should not be viewed as societal threats but as victims of systemic neglect.

“They are not a nuisance,” he stressed. “They are victims of a broken system. If we continue to ignore them, we are simply postponing a deeper crisis.”

On the role of faith in governance, the Governor noted that true righteousness is not performative. “We don’t transform systems by merely shouting the name of Jesus,” he said. “We do so by living out His values of equity, justice, and service.”

Governor Mutfwang assured members and alumni of the Haggai Institute of his administration’s willingness to partner with them in broadening leadership training opportunities, especially for younger generations. He described the Gen Z demographic as vital to the future of Nigeria.

“We must equip them not just with skills, but with the right mindset. They must believe that this country can work, and that they are the ones to make it work,” he said.

He called for resilience and collective responsibility, emphasizing that transformational leadership often faces resistance. “We know the road is long, but we are prepared. With your prayers, your support, and the help of God, we will not just govern, we will raise the standard.”

Earlier in her remarks, the Chairperson of the Plateau State Chapter of the Haggai Institute, Mrs. Lami Dakwak, congratulated the Governor on his impactful two years in office. She commended his people-centered leadership style and applauded his administration’s emphasis on transparency and accountability.

Mrs. Dakwak also provided an overview of the Institute’s activities, emphasizing its mission to equip leaders with biblically grounded values, practical skills, and mentorship opportunities. She appealed for greater collaboration with the state government in strengthening leadership capacity across all levels of society.

The Haggai Institute is known for its global network of alumni and its commitment to raising ethical leaders who can positively influence their communities and nations.