Plateau to install 5,000 surveillance cameras, deploy drones — SSG

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By Golok Nanmwa, Jos

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The Plateau State Government says it plans to install about 5,000 surveillance cameras, deploy drones, and establish a command-and-control centre as part of efforts to strengthen security and improve real-time monitoring across the state.

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The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Arch. Samuel Jatau, disclosed this on Wednesday in Jos while briefing journalists on the policies and governance direction of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration.

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Jatau said the initiative forms part of a broader security strategy aimed at enhancing intelligence gathering, improving response times, and strengthening community safety.

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He noted that federal and state representatives had recently inspected the surveillance equipment in China ahead of its deployment.

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According to him, the state already operates drones and a central command-and-control system designed to provide real-time intelligence to security agencies.

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On community security, the SSG urged residents to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security operatives, describing them as key stakeholders in the state’s security architecture.

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Jatau also disclosed that Plateau State requires about ₦60 billion to clear outstanding pension and gratuity arrears owed to retirees in both state and local government areas.

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He said the administration had so far spent over ₦20 billion on pension payments since assuming office and adopted a chronological payment system to ensure fairness and transparency.

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He added that the Pension Board had progressed beyond 2011 in its payment schedule.

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On agriculture, Jatau described the sector as a key driver of economic growth, noting that the government had procured over 200 land tillers and secured hybrid potato seedlings to boost production.

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He also announced the commencement of a 500-cattle-per-day abattoir project in Heipang, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, aimed at positioning Plateau State within the global meat and dairy value chain.

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According to him, the government is engaging foreign investors, with preliminary discussions indicating potential investments exceeding $400 million.

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Jatau urged residents to support ongoing reforms, expressing confidence that the initiatives would strengthen the state’s economy and improve livelihoods.

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