Mutfwang Revives Reading Culture and Liberty Renaissance in Plateau State

In a bold move to restore the reading culture and reposition libraries as centers of intellectual awakening, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has unveiled a transformative vision for Plateau State.

In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the Governor shared this commitment during a ceremony at the Government House, Rayfield, where he was honoured as the Book and Literary Ambassador of Plateau State by the Plateau State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

The recognition, awarded in appreciation of the Governor’s steadfast advocacy for education and intellectual development, came amidst growing calls for the revival of literature as a catalyst for social change, youth engagement, and peacebuilding.

In a thought-provoking address, Governor Mutfwang decried the decline in reading habits, especially among young people, noting that while technology offers instant answers, it cannot replace the depth of understanding that comes from reading.

“Technology can give you answers, but not insight. It is in books that we build the mind. And without reading, writing has no future,” he remarked.

He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to rehabilitate and modernize public libraries, making them vibrant, accessible spaces for learning, innovation, and community dialogue. He further disclosed plans to establish a literary garden within the Government House, a serene corner for writers, poets, and thinkers to collaborate and create.

The Governor disclosed that Plateau State is gearing up to host the 2025 Plateau State Literary Festival, one of the most anticipated cultural events in Nigeria. He also hinted at plans to invite globally acclaimed literary icons such as Wole Soyinka and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie to headline the event.

“Chimamanda’s influence on young girls is profound. Today, young women are excelling academically, and we must build on this momentum to nurture a new generation of literary champions,” he added.

The Chairman of ANA Plateau and President of the Coalition of Literary Societies, Mr. Victor Meshack, who led the delegation, sympathized with the Governor over the recent attacks in Bokkos. He stated the Association’s commitment to using storytelling and creative writing to promote peace, healing, and unity across communities.

As part of their visit, the delegation proposed the creation of a mini-library within the Government House and advocated for the revival of the Plateau State Creative Industry Bill, an initiative aimed at unlocking the state’s cultural economy and nurturing emerging literary talents.