Prof. Ijeoma G. Ayuba Launches “Plateau Rising” — A Comprehensive Blueprint for Peace, Progress, and Development in Plateau State
By: Labaran Ahmed
In a ceremony marked by emotion, inspiration, and intellectual depth, Professor Ijeoma Georgina Ayuba delivered a heartfelt welcoming address during the public presentation and launch of her new book, “Plateau Rising,” in Jos, Plateau State.
Professor Ayuba, a respected scholar and development advocate, expressed profound gratitude to the Governor and Deputy Governor of Plateau State, as well as state officials, colleagues, and her family for their unwavering support. She described Plateau Rising as a “celebration of vision, dream, and shared belief in Plateau’s potential”—a call for the people to rediscover their courage, creativity, and compassion in building a peaceful and prosperous society.
In her address, Prof. Ayuba highlighted the book as a strategic development blueprint designed to connect “hearts to presence, and challenges to possibilities.” She expressed appreciation to her assistants from the National Spatial Council (NSC) and to students working in various ministries for their tireless efforts in realizing the Plateau Rising vision. She also extended special thanks to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and other ministries for their collaboration in producing the landmark work.
Reviewing the book, Dr. (TPL) Hassan Y. Tifwa, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Jos, representing Hon. Musa Ashams, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, described Plateau Rising as a comprehensive, data-driven, and human-centered roadmap for rebuilding Plateau State.
The book, presented in two volumes, combines historical context, institutional analysis, and strategic development frameworks:
Volume One focuses on the historical and foundational underpinnings of Plateau’s development, including colonial evolution, institutional mapping, demographic patterns, and socio-cultural insights.
Volume Two outlines actionable blueprints for governance, peace building, infrastructure, agricultural modernization, human capital development, and industrialization.
The author identifies key challenges—such as conflicts, youth unemployment, and agricultural stagnation—while proposing innovative solutions including: Industrialization and economic diversification. Modernized market systems and a Plateau Store Chain initiative. Peace and governance reforms. Improved agricultural productivity and sustainable practices. Human capital development and education-based empowerment. The anticipated outcomes include job creation, reduced poverty, and strengthened social cohesion.
Representing the chief launcher and former Senate Minority Leader, Hon. Simon Mutfwang, Ptl. Tuji Barnabas Bali emphasized that Plateau Rising represents “a vision of hope and renewal for Plateau State.” He praised the publication for offering practical strategies for peace building, youth empowerment, and economic revitalization, while commending the visionary leadership of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
Similarly, Mr. Timothy D. Kapoes, representing the chairman of the occasion, Hon. Amalau S. Amalau, described the book as a “living guide for policymakers, schools, communities, and hearts.” He lauded Prof. Ayuba for her dedication and deep sense of purpose in advancing Plateau’s development agenda.
Speaking on behalf of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Mr. Chuwang B. Z., representing Dr. S. A. Achuenu, expressed admiration for the author’s supportive nature, inspiration, and dedication to both her students and academic community.
The event also featured goodwill messages from TPL Samuel Adamu Juau, representing the Town Planners Registration Council (TPRC), Plateau State Chapter, and the Town Planners Registration Council of Nigeria (TOPREC). He congratulated Prof. Ayuba on her remarkable achievement, describing her as “a beacon of excellence whose humility, scholarship, and commitment continue to inspire the planning community.”
The Plateau Rising book launch was not just an academic event but a call to collective action—inviting policymakers, development partners, NGOs, and citizens to work together in rebuilding Plateau State on the pillars of peace, progress, and inclusivity.
As Prof. Ayuba put it in her closing remark, “Plateau Rising is not just a book—it is a movement, a mirror, and a map for the Plateau we must build together.”