In a renewed push to tackle insecurity and restore lasting peace across Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has commissioned 1,450 newly trained operatives of Operation Rainbow, the state-owned security outfit. The passing-out parade, held on Tuesday at the Zaria Road Stadium in Jos, marked the successful completion of a rigorous six-month training programme for the recruits.
Addressing the operatives, security agencies, traditional leaders and other stakeholders at the event, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property in all parts of the state. He described the revitalisation of Operation Rainbow as a central pillar of his broader security strategy, aimed at building a safe and peaceful environment for residents and investors alike.
According to the governor, the graduation of the operatives represents more than the end of a training exercise. Rather, it symbolises the beginning of a renewed sense of duty, courage and sacrifice in service to the people of Plateau State. He commended the recruits for their resilience, discipline and dedication throughout the training period, urging them to remain professional and law-abiding in the discharge of their responsibilities.
“Today, we celebrate not just the successful completion of this rigorous training programme, but the birth of a renewed commitment to service, courage, discipline and sacrifice,” Mutfwang said. “You have answered a noble call—the call to protect lives and property, preserve peace and safeguard the future of our communities. For this, the government and the good people of Plateau State are immensely proud of you.”
The governor emphasised that security is the foundation upon which sustainable development is built, stressing that no society can thrive without peace and stability. He noted that insecurity discourages investment, disrupts social harmony and undermines economic growth, making it imperative for government to prioritise effective security structures.
“Without peace, there can be no meaningful progress, no investment, no prosperity and no enduring unity,” he stated. “This is why peace and security remain the cardinal policy thrusts of my administration.”
Mutfwang further explained that his government’s approach to security places strong emphasis on grassroots participation, recognising that effective intelligence gathering and crime prevention begin at the community level. As a result, the administration has prioritised community-based security initiatives, including the strengthening of vigilante groups and local support structures that complement conventional security agencies.
He told the operatives that their training extended beyond physical drills and tactical readiness, noting that they had also been equipped with values essential for modern security operations. These include respect for the rule of law, protection of human rights and responsible engagement with civilians.
“Your training has gone beyond physical drills and tactical preparedness,” the governor said. “It has instilled discipline, respect for the rule of law, adherence to human rights and the principles of responsible engagement with civilians.”
As they prepare to be deployed across the state, Governor Mutfwang charged the new operatives to conduct themselves with integrity, restraint and professionalism at all times. He reminded them that they are not above the law, but partners and guardians of it, and must therefore work in harmony with established security institutions.
“You are not above the law; rather, you are its guardians and partners,” he said. “Work harmoniously with conventional security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders. Only through collaboration can we achieve lasting peace.”
The governor also warned that acts of indiscipline, abuse of power or unprofessional conduct would not be tolerated under his administration. He assured residents that strict oversight mechanisms would be put in place to ensure accountability and adherence to the mandate of Operation Rainbow.
In addition, Mutfwang clarified the core mission of the security outfit, stressing that Operation Rainbow is an inclusive initiative designed to protect all residents of Plateau State, regardless of religion, ethnicity or regional background. He dismissed concerns about possible misuse of the outfit, noting that it was never conceived as a tool for witch-hunting or intimidation.
“Operation Rainbow was conceived primarily to protect all citizens, irrespective of their faith, ethnic group or regional background,” he said. “It is not meant for witch-hunt. It is an all-inclusive security outfit that brings people of all faiths and tribes together to advance peace, unity and safety.”
Governor Mutfwang commended the Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, retired Brigadier General Gakji Shipi, alongside other security agencies and trainers involved in the programme, for their professionalism and dedication in preparing the operatives for their roles.
Operation Rainbow was originally established during the administration of former Governor Jonah Jang to support community policing and provide timely intelligence on security threats across the state. Since assuming office, the Mutfwang administration has taken deliberate steps to strengthen the outfit, including the earlier recruitment of 600 vigilante operatives, as part of a comprehensive effort to enhance peace and security in Plateau State.
With the addition of the newly trained 1,450 operatives, the government believes Operation Rainbow is now better positioned to respond to security challenges, support conventional forces and reassure residents of its commitment to a safer Plateau.
