Former Archbishop Justin Welby Visits Plateau State

Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has visited Plateau State. He was welcomed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other political and religious leaders in Jos.

Mr Welby arrived in the state on Tuesday. He was received at the airport and then went to the Plateau State Government House. There, he met Mr Mutfwang, his deputy, Josephine Piyo, and Nentawe Yilwatda, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), along with other officials.

This visit brings the former head of the Church of England to a state facing security issues. The government is working to promote peace and understanding among its different communities.

A statement about the visit said the governor welcomed Mr Welby at the Government House. Members of the National Assembly, the Plateau State House of Assembly, and other dignitaries were also present.

Mr Welby served as the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury. He has kept in touch with Nigeria since leaving the position.

In February, he visited Kaduna State, where he met Governor Uba Sani. During that visit, he talked about peace, unity, and reconciliation.

His visit to Plateau comes at a time of renewed security concerns in the state. The government and security agencies have been meeting to find ways to prevent attacks and protect communities better.

Mr Mutfwang has recently called for better cooperation and intelligence-led efforts to tackle insecurity in the North-central region.

Last week, the governor also welcomed Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu in Jos. This was part of renewed calls for stronger teamwork between security agencies, communities, and the state government.

Mr Welby was accompanied to the Government House by a representative of Prophet Isa El-Buba. The representative said the visit was significant and thanked Mr El-Buba for the chance to receive the former Archbishop.

He described the visit as an important moment for Plateau State. He felt it was an honour to welcome such a prominent global Christian figure.

Details of the discussions between Mr Welby and the Plateau State Government officials were not shared. It remains unclear if the former Archbishop’s visit focused on religious issues, peacebuilding, governance, or something else.

During Mr Welby’s earlier visit to Kaduna, he stressed the need for reconciliation, inclusive leadership, and ongoing dialogue to keep peace.