Former Plateau State Governor and Senator representing Plateau South, Senator Simon Lalong, has described the emergence of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang as Silverbird Governor of the Year 2025 as a well-earned recognition of visible progress across the state.

Speaking at the prestigious Silverbird Group Man of the Year Award ceremony held at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Lalong said the honour reflects the measurable strides made under Mutfwang’s administration in restoring peace and repositioning Plateau for growth.

According to him, the award was not merely ceremonial but a validation of deliberate governance choices that are changing long-standing narratives about the state.

“This award to Governor Mutfwang is well -deserved and it reflects the positive realities that we are seeing across our state,” Lalong affirmed.

Governor Mutfwang was named Governor of the Year 2025 following what organisers described as bold initiatives deploying technology to combat insecurity, driving inclusive development, and creating a more enabling environment for investors.

The former governor assured Mutfwang of sustained bipartisan support, stressing that governance should transcend political rivalry.

While receiving the award from veteran journalist and former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Governor Mutfwang dedicated the honour to the peace-loving people of Plateau State. He thanked his predecessor, Senator Lalong, and other political leaders present at the event for demonstrating what he described as a “new spirit of unity and love” on the Plateau.

The Governor acknowledged that although Plateau State has, for decades, made headlines for unfortunate reasons, the narrative is changing. He affirmed that beyond the River Niger, Plateau is fast emerging as the next destination for investors, owing to deliberate policies that have created an enabling environment for peace, productivity, progress, and shared prosperity.

Governor Mutfwang emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved when leaders rise above divisions and provide purposeful direction.

“The only way we can secure enduring peace is when leaders take responsibility and provide the necessary leadership for the people to follow. Yesterday, we may have been political rivals; today, we stand together in the interest of peace and development. That is the new Nigeria we seek to build, beginning with the solid foundation we are laying on the Plateau,” he affirmed.

Governor Mutfwang reiterated that lasting peace requires responsible leadership and collective commitment, adding that Plateau is fast emerging as an attractive destination for investors beyond the River Niger.

He also commended the Silverbird Group for recognising the state’s progress, pledging continued partnership in advancing peacebuilding and media-driven development initiatives.

The colourful ceremony drew a distinguished audience, including members of the National and State Assemblies, ministers, traditional and religious leaders, local government chairmen, and other key stakeholders.