Governor Mutfwang speaks on inheriting extensive unfinished projects and financial burdens. Discover how he plans to address the N47 billion debt.
On Monday, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State disclosed that his administration inherited 42 unfinished infrastructure projects, resulting in a debt of roughly N47 billion.
He also mentioned that the development has impacted the state’s ranking in contract enforcement as assessed by both the World Bank and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).
Mutfwang disclosed this information during the inauguration of a five-day training session focused on Best Practices in Contemporary Construction and Procurement for the Built Environment Sector in Plateau State.
Speaking through the Deputy Governor of the State, Josephine Piyo, he stated: “This training initiative marks the beginning of a series dedicated to building capacity and improving the public sector.”
The timing perfectly aligns with the State Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing quality physical and infrastructural development through coordinated collaboration among relevant authorities, especially at the local government level.
As key stakeholders, you are surely aware that the approved state budget for 2024 has allocated over N130 billion to capital expenditure.
This investment highlights the importance of enhancing the skills and capabilities of staff within pertinent MDAs, especially those working in procurement and construction. The goal is to ensure successful delivery of capital projects, optimize their impact, and lay a solid groundwork for future development initiatives in Plateau State.
He stated, “The persistent challenges in infrastructure delivery, highlighted by issues like scope creep, cost overruns, and insufficient project risk management, have led to numerous failed projects and subsequent governmental losses.”
He expressed concern, highlighting that at the start of this administration, there were 42 abandoned infrastructure projects with a debt totaling approximately N47 billion. This situation has significantly impacted the state’s performance in contract enforcement assessments by both the World Bank and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).
I want to emphasize the importance of this initiative for our administration, as infrastructure development is a top priority highlighted in the Plateau State Development Framework (PSDF) for 2023-2027.
I am sure that this training will improve your project delivery and efficiency skills, while also encouraging discussions on strategies to reduce financial waste, strengthen accountability, and boost project completion rates.
Peoplesmind
