By,giwa alex, Jos

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has once again demonstrated decisive leadership as his “Time Is Now” Administration records far-reaching achievements in the nutrition sub-sector, positioning Plateau State as a model for coordinated action against malnutrition in Nigeria.

These milestones were unveiled on Friday, December 19th, 2025, during a press briefing at the Plateau State Secretariat, Jos, held to commemorate the week-long nutrition celebrations at the state, national, and global levels.

Nigeria currently ranks first in Africa and second globally in child malnutrition, with Plateau State facing a stunting rate of 44.6 percent.

 Beyond the human toll, malnutrition costs Nigeria over $1.5 billion annually, undermining productivity and long-term development.

Governor Mutfwang’s administration identified nutrition as both a public health emergency and a development priority, committing to decisive, system-wide reforms to safeguard the future of Plateau’s children.

Shortly after assuming office, the Governor adopted a multi-sectoral and grassroots-driven approach to nutrition governance.

In October 2023, the administration established Local Government Committees on Food and Nutrition across the state. 

These committees were designed to move beyond policy rhetoric, ensuring community ownership, accountability, and locally tailored interventions at the grassroots.

To strengthen institutional response, the state undertook a comprehensive review of the Plateau State Food and Nutrition Policy (2024–2028). 

The review aligned state priorities with emerging nutrition challenges and the evolving National Policy on Food and Nutrition, creating a unified framework for action across all tiers of government.

A major milestone came in July 2025 with the launch of the Nutrition 774 Initiative (N-774I).

 Championed by Governor Mutfwang’s administration, the initiative elevated nutrition to a local government priority, empowering LGAs to design context-specific interventions while strengthening coordination nationwide.

To ensure sustainability, nutrition focal persons across local governments were trained and equipped to lead implementation, monitoring, and reporting.

The Plateau State Primary Health Care Board emerged as a central driver of implementation.

 In June and December 2025, the state successfully conducted Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Weeks, reaching thousands of families.

Small-Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements (SQ-LNS)

Management of Severe Acute Malnutrition

Provision of Multiple Micronutrient Supplements for pregnant women

Regular quarterly data review meetings ensured evidence-based decision-making and accountability.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health intensified food safety advocacy through World Food Safety Day celebrations, media engagements, and training of food vendors, reinforcing the link between safe food and optimal nutrition.

Governor Mutfwang’s nutrition drive extended beyond health    :

The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development promoted eco-friendly agricultural technologies.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industries trained MSMEs on food fortification, nutrition labeling, and regulatory compliance.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, working with the Ministry of Education and the ANRiN Programme, revived school gardens and orchards, using them as platforms for nutrition education and sustainable agriculture.

Recognizing that government alone cannot defeat malnutrition, the administration strengthened strategic partnerships    :

UNICEF, through the Child Nutrition Match Fund (CNF), supported procurement of life-saving nutrition commodities for children aged 6–23 months, with phases launched from August 2025.

Zadchlo International Foundation (ZIF) led community sensitization, adolescent nutrition education, menstrual hygiene awareness, and WASH interventions across several LGAs.

Relief and Hope Foundation integrated nutrition and WASH education, reaching hundreds of adolescents and households in Langtang North and South.

Heal the Youth Foundation (HTYF) conducted nutrition assessments for nearly 700 individuals, trained women and girls in leadership and enterprise, and provided start-up grants in Jos North and South.

Almanah Rescue Mission advanced homestead farming through caregiver training and distribution of improved seedlings.

Dizauregi Services Limited supported vulnerable communities through fortified food production and nutrition awareness campaigns.

Collectively, these interventions reflect a coordinated, multi-sectoral response anchored on Governor Mutfwang’s development vision.

 The administration is not only treating malnutrition but strengthening systems, empowering communities, and building long-term resilience.

While progress has been significant, the Plateau State Government acknowledges that the fight against malnutrition is far from over. 

Sustained investment, deeper partnerships, and rigorous implementation remain critical.

Under Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s leadership, the message is clear   :

 nutrition is the foundation of human capital and economic growth,and for Plateau State, the time to act is now.

By, giwa alex, Jos.

In a powerful demonstration of unity, faith, and cultural harmony, His Royal Majesty, the Ujah Anaguta of Jos, Pozoh Dr. Johnson Jauro Magaji II, on Tuesday 16th hosted the 2025 Christmas Carol at his ancient palace, bringing together the Jos North Local Government Council under Barrister J.K. Chris and the Plateau State Government led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang in a shared commitment to peace and coexistence.

The historic palace, adorned in festive splendour, became the rallying point for traditional rulers, government officials, religious leaders, and residents of Jos North, as the event unfolded in a  rich celebration of Christmas, unity, and hope.

Proceedings commenced with melodious and soul-lifting renditions of Christmas hymns by massed choirs, instantly setting a solemn and joyous tone for the ceremony. 

The opening worship reaffirmed the palace of the Ujah Anaguta as a symbol of peace and an enduring meeting point for Jos North’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.

Formally welcoming guests, HRM Ujah Anaguta, Pozoh Dr. Johnson Jauro Magaji II, described Christmas as a divine season of love, sacrifice, and reconciliation.

 He charged the people of Jos North to rise above differences and sustain peace beyond the festive period, noting that the birth of Jesus Christ remains humanity’s greatest message of salvation and unity.

The royal father reaffirmed the resolve of the Jos North Traditional Council to sustain the annual Christmas Carol as a platform for inclusive engagement and communal harmony. 

He commended traditional institutions, community leaders, and stakeholders for their unwavering support toward peacebuilding across Jos North.

In a glowing tribute, the Ujah Anaguta praised Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for initiating the Unity Christmas Carol across the state, describing the governor’s leadership as visionary and people-centred. 

According to the monarch, Governor Mutfwang’s deliberate policy of inclusiveness has continued to strengthen unity among Christian denominations, ethnic nationalities, and social groups in Plateau State.

The strong collaboration between traditional authority and grassroots governance was further reinforced by the presence of the Chairman of Jos North Local Government Area, Barrister J.K. Chris, whose goodwill message was delivered by the Council Secretary, Pharmacist Ishaya Samuel Gyang.

Delivering the message, Pharmacist Gyang conveyed the warm Christmas greetings of Barr. J.K. Chris to the Ujah Anaguta and the entire Jos North populace.

 He described the Christmas Carol as timely, strategic, and impactful, aligning perfectly with the chairman’s administration agenda of peacebuilding, unity, and inclusive governance at the grassroots.

According to him, the J.K. Chris led administration remains resolute in partnering with traditional institutions and faith-based organisations to promote peaceful coexistence, particularly in Jos North, a cosmopolitan local government with rich diversity. 

He lauded the Ujah Anaguta for his stabilising leadership, describing the monarch as a bridge-builder and moral compass for the people.

As Chairman of the Organising Committee, Pharmacist Gyang expressed profound appreciation to sponsors, security agencies, volunteers, choir groups, and community stakeholders whose collective efforts ensured the seamless success of the 2025 Christmas Carol.

 He noted that the impressive turnout and orderly conduct of the event reflected the people’s deep yearning for peace and unity.

One of the major highlights of the celebration was the breathtaking performances by choirs drawn from various Christian denominations across Jos North.

 Clad in colourful and distinctive regalia, the choirs rendered classical and contemporary Christmas carols, captivating the audience and deepening the spiritual atmosphere of the event.

The carol attracted an array of dignitaries, including members of the Jos North Traditional Council, religious leaders, political office holders, women and youth leaders, community elders, and civil society representatives, all united by the message of Christmas and the shared pursuit of peace.

In his closing remarks, HRM Ujah Anaguta Johnson Jauro Magaji II expressed gratitude to the Jos North Local Government Council under Barr. J.K. Chris, the organising committee, and all participants for making the event a resounding success. 

He reaffirmed the Traditional Council’s commitment to sustaining the annual Christmas Carol in honour of God and for the unity of the people.

The event ended with prayers for peace, progress, and prosperity in Jos North, Plateau State, and Nigeria, as participants departed in an atmosphere of joy, renewed hope, and festive cheer.

The 2025 Christmas Carol was held under the theme   :

“Joy to the World, the Saviour Reigns.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

Anxiety is mounting across Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, as residents raise alarm over what they describe as poorly executed drainage projects allegedly carried out under the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas.

The concerns surfaced on Friday 19th, December 2025, when residents from different parts of the city spoke with  our reporter, warning that the quality of the ongoing drainage construction could trigger devastating flooding during the forthcoming rainy season.

Leading the outcry was Mr. Henry Musa, a resident of Angwan-Kassa, who expressed deep fears that the drainage system currently under construction lacks the structural strength to withstand heavy rainfall.

According to him, the manner in which the project is being executed suggests it may fail within a short period, leaving communities exposed to floods.

“The drainage work going on around Jalingo is alarming. From what we are seeing, it may not even survive one rainy season,” Musa said.

As the complaints widened, residents from the Roadblock and Investment Quarters areas also added their voices, calling for immediate government intervention.

Mr. John Yohana of Roadblock and Mr. Kefas Kaigama of Investment Quarters urged Governor Agbu Kefas to either revoke the contract or compel the contractor to adhere strictly to engineering standards.

They alleged that the contractor was using hollow and substandard cement blocks, poorly mixed cement, and failing to install iron reinforcements required for durability.

“The materials being used are very weak. There are no iron rods, and the cement mixture is too light. This kind of drainage cannot withstand the volume of water that flows through Jalingo during the rainy season,” Yohana alleged.

Kaigama warned that if the situation is not urgently addressed, the poorly constructed drainages could collapse, worsen erosion, and expose residents to loss of property and possible displacement.

“What is being done now may eventually cause more harm than good. Instead of controlling flood, it may invite it,” he said.

The residents described the development as gross negligence and an affront to public safety, accusing the contractor of compromising standards at the expense of the people.

They called on Governor Agbu Kefas to act swiftly to prevent an impending environmental disaster, stressing that Jalingo’s drainage system plays a critical role in managing stormwater across the capital.

Efforts to reach officials of the state government or the contractor handling the project for comments were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report

The growing public outcry has further intensified calls for transparency, accountability, and strict supervision of public infrastructure projects in Taraba State.

By,giwa alex ,jos

The Honourable Commissioner for Health in Plateau State, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, has dedicated his Social Media Influencers Award 2025, where he emerged as Best Commissioner of the Year, to Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the hardworking staff of the Plateau State Ministry of Health.

The award ceremony was held on 18th December 2025 at the Crest Hotel, drawing stakeholders from across the state. Shortly after receiving the honour, Dr. Ba’amlong spoke to journalists, describing the award as a call to deeper service rather than a personal achievement.

Expressing profound gratitude, the commissioner acknowledged Governor Caleb Mutfwang for entrusting him with the responsibility to serve the people of Plateau State.

 “First, I want to sincerely thank God, and I also want to deeply appreciate His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, for giving me the opportunity to serve the people of Plateau State. This award would not have been possible without the confidence he reposed in me,” Dr. Ba’amlong said.

According to him, the recognition has further strengthened his resolve to deliver more impactful healthcare services across the state.

“To me, this award is a motivation to do much more. I have turned myself completely to the service of the state, ensuring that the health needs of our people are well protected and that we continue to move forward,” he stated.

Dr. Ba’amlong also showered encomiums on the staff of the Ministry of Health and its agencies, describing them as the backbone of the ministry’s achievements.

 “I want to specially appreciate the entire staff of the Ministry of Health and all agencies under the ministry.

 From the very beginning, they have stood by us and supported every policy and programme. Without their dedication and commitment, none of this would have been possible,” he noted.

He emphasized that public recognition plays a critical role in encouraging performance in public service.

 “Awards like this are important because they remind us that people out there are watching and appreciating the little efforts we make. This recognition will push us to work even harder,” he added.

The health commissioner also acknowledged the unwavering support of his family, describing their prayers and encouragement as a source of strength throughout his service.

Commenting on the award organizers, Dr. Ba’amlong urged them to expand the scope of the initiative to recognize more deserving individuals across the state.

 “There are many people doing their best in their respective fields. I encourage the organizers to make this event more elaborate and inclusive so that more hardworking individuals can be recognized,” he said.

As the Christmas season approaches, the commissioner used the opportunity to advise Plateau residents to celebrate responsibly and prioritize their health.

 “While enjoying the celebrations and merriment of Christmas, people must also pay attention to their health. Eat right and avoid excesses, even though food and drinks will be readily available,” he cautioned.

He issued a strong warning to youths against reckless behaviour during the festive period.

 “I want to particularly advise our youths to avoid reckless driving, drug abuse, and excessive consumption of alcohol during this period,” he said.

Dr. Ba’amlong concluded by wishing the people of Plateau State a peaceful, safe, and healthy Christmas celebration.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo .

Prof. Jerome Nyameh, a governorship aspirant in Taraba State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, has taken a significant step towards his future political plans. 

Correspondent reports that on Tuesday, he took to his social media handle to seek the opinion of his supporters on whether to contest for the governorship in 2027.

Nyameh, told our Correspondent Thursday in Jalingo that the responses are overwhelming, describing the outcome as “encouraging”. 

He thanked supporters for taking their time to comment on his post, which generated 803 comments, 1k likes, and 57 shares within 48 hours.

Prof. Nyameh noted that he categorized the comments into themes, revealing a clear majority in favor of his governorship bid. 

According to the breakdown, 623 people (approximately 77,6%) supported his run for governor.

“Thank you all for taking the time to comment on the post on my page, which I asked for your opinions.

“The breakdown also showed 108 people (13.6%) suggested I should run for the Senate, 41 people (5.1%) for the House of Representatives, and 31 people (3.7%) advised me not to contest.

“The results indicated strong support for my governorship ambitions, with a clear majority backing my bid for the top office in Taraba State.

“My decision to gauge public opinion reflects my commitment to understanding the desires of the supporters and the people of Taraba State.

“With the support of my followers, i poised to make a strong bid for the governorship in 2027, potentially marking a significant chapter in my political career,” he said.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The APC Anaguta Concern Group in Jos North Local Government Area has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing sons and daughters of Plateau State into strategic positions in his administration, describing the gesture as a clear demonstration of inclusiveness and recognition of the state.

The group made this known during a press briefing held on Wednesday, 18th December 2025, at the University Hotel, Dogon Dutse, Jos, under the leadership of Hon. Ezekiel Shina Agada.

Addressing journalists, Hon. Agada said the group convened the briefing to express gratitude to President Tinubu, noting that Plateau State has benefited significantly from recent federal appointments compared to past administrations.

 “We have witnessed several administrations in this country, but this is one presidency that has given Plateau State a reasonable number of appointments. For this, we say thank you to Mr. President,” he stated.

The group specifically commended President Tinubu for appointing Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the development as historic and a source of pride to Plateau State.

“We are grateful to the President for appointing one of our own as the National Chairman of our great party, the largest party in Africa. It is an opportunity to serve, and we do not take it for granted,” Agada said.

The APC Anaguta Concern Group also paid tribute to the former Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, acknowledging his contributions to the state, particularly in the education sector and his continued leadership role within the APC.

Turning to state politics, the group commended the performance of the current Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, and expressed confidence that his defection to the APC would attract more federal attention and accelerate development in the state.

“The governor is doing well, and with his movement to the APC, we strongly believe Plateau State will enjoy more democratic dividends,” the group said.

The speakers emphasized the need for unity among Plateau people, urging residents to rise above political, ethnic, and personal differences for the collective interest of the state.

 “This is the time for Plateau people to think Plateau, do Plateau, and speak Plateau. Unity is the key to development,” Agada stressed.

They further pledged prayers and support for President Tinubu and his cabinet, the Plateau State Governor and his team, as well as local government leadership, noting that those representing Plateau at the federal level would return with valuable experience for the benefit of the state.

Members of the group also reaffirmed their total loyalty to the APC leadership at the National, State, and local government levels, calling on Plateau citizens to rally behind the government to ensure the successful execution of developmental projects.

In a separate interview after the briefing, Hon. Ezekiel Agada explained that the essence of the press conference was to promote peace, unity, and collective progress in Plateau State.

“Our concern group is not formed to insult or blackmail anyone. We are calling on all sons and daughters of Plateau to come together, set aside personal interests, and focus on the development of our state,” he said.

He noted that Plateau currently has representation across key political offices, including the governor, party leadership, ministers, senators, and members of the House of Representatives, stressing that collaboration among leaders would strengthen the state’s position nationally.

He concluded by urging Plateau people to see themselves as brothers and sisters and to support all efforts aimed at fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development in the state.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Activities were grounded in the Plateau State capital on Tuesday 17th December 2025 ,as workers took to the streets in a mass protest against rising insecurity, warning the government to act swiftly or face a nationwide shutdown.

The protest, organised by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in collaboration with civil liberty organisations, began early in the morning as workers converged from various parts of Jos from about 8 a.m., disrupting commercial and official activities.

Led by the Plateau State Chairman of the NLC, Comrade Eugene Manji, and civil rights leader Comrade Steve Aluko, the protesters marched through major streets to the Plateau State House of Assembly and later to the Government House in Little Rayfield to submit letters outlining their grievances and demands.

The demonstrators, drawn from unions including the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), carried placards with bold inscriptions such as “This Blood Must Stop Now,” “Justice for the Victims,” and “Rise Up Now Nigerians.”

Addressing journalists during the march, the workers decried what they described as persistent attacks and killings in parts of Plateau State, particularly in the Fan District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, accusing the government of failing to protect lives and property.

They also expressed concern over the continued displacement of residents from their ancestral homes, lamenting the government’s inability to resettle internally displaced persons. 

The protesters further condemned the prolonged closure of schools in affected areas, warning that insecurity had severely disrupted education in the state.

At the Plateau State House of Assembly, the protesters were received by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, who assured them of the lawmakers’ commitment to addressing insecurity.

 The Speaker disclosed that insecurity had personally affected the Assembly, revealing that the lawmaker representing Pankshin South Constituency was kidnapped from his residence earlier in the year.

The workers later proceeded to the Government House, where they submitted their demands to the state government, issuing a stern warning that failure to take decisive action could compel organised labour to shut down the country without prior notice.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Acting Grand Khadi of the Plateau State Sharia Court of Appeal, Justice Umar Ibrahim Abdullahi, who died after a brief illness.

In a heartfelt condolence message, Governor Mutfwang described the late Justice Abdullahi as a man of peace, integrity, and unity, whose distinguished service left an indelible imprint not only on the Judiciary but also on the broader Plateau State community.

The Governor noted that the revered jurist devoted his life to justice, harmony, and the advancement of humanity, adding that his demise has created a significant vacuum in the judicial system and in public service. He prayed that God would raise men and women of integrity, wisdom, and courage to sustain and build upon the noble legacy of leadership exemplified by the late Justice Umar Ibrahim Abdullahi.

On behalf of his family, the Government, and the good people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended his deepest condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the Judiciary, and the people of Shendam Local Government Area. He prayed that God Almighty would grant the family comfort, strength, and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

By, giwa alex ,Jos 

Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has once again demonstrated uncommon political will in repositioning the mining sector, as the Plateau State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, convened a high-level sensitization programme for mineral title holders, host communities, and critical stakeholders in Jos.

The programme, held at the Geo-Minerin Office along Tudu Wada Road, marked another decisive step in the Governor’s ongoing reforms following the declaration of a state of emergency in the mining sector,a move widely acknowledged as bold, timely, and necessary to rescue Plateau’s long-neglected mineral wealth.

Speaking through the Director of Exploration and Gemological Services, Mr. Jaryam Samuel, who represented the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, the Plateau State Government made it clear that the Governor’s intervention in the mining sector was driven by concern over the harsh realities on the ground.

Despite Plateau State’s identity as Nigeria’s historic “Tin City”, communities have continued to suffer the negative impacts of mining,environmental degradation, school dropouts, unsafe artisanal mining, exploitation of miners, widows, and rising social vices,without corresponding economic benefits.

Governor Mutfwang, it was emphasized, could not ignore this contradiction. His response included the temporary suspension of mining activities, renewed regulatory oversight, and the resuscitation and full mobilization of the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), which had previously been dormant.

The Governor’s action, carried out in synergy with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Zonal Mining Office in Jos, has restored confidence and direction in the sector.

The sensitization programme was designed to deepen stakeholders’ understanding of their rights and obligations under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 and the 2011 Regulations.

Participants were reminded that compliance, transparency, and partnership with government are essential to ensuring that mining contributes to job creation, environmental protection, and sustainable development in Plateau State.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to value-driven mining that benefits host communities and restores Plateau’s relevance in Nigeria’s mining industry.

Delivering the keynote address, Engineer Professor Stephen Malo, Chairman of MIREMCO, Plateau State Chapter, set the tone for deeper engagement and accountability.

Apologizing for the delayed start of the programme, Professor Malo commended stakeholders, particularly security agencies such as the Department of State Services (DSS), for their early presence and dedication to the sector.

He explained that MIREMCO was established under Section 19 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, to address the complex realities of mining at the grassroots level,where Abuja-based regulation alone cannot suffice.

Advise the Honourable Minister on mineral titles, compensation, and statutory returns.

Resolve conflicts between mining operators, host communities, and government.

Address environmental degradation and land disturbance.

Serve as a liaison between investors, security agencies, MDAs, and communities.

Promote sustainable resource management for present and future generations.

Professor Malo revealed that since its inauguration in September 2024 by Governor Mutfwang, the Plateau State MIREMCO has recorded significant milestones, including  :

Mediation between Peter & Paul Global Mining Company and Dura/Gyal Communities, leading to a Community Development Agreement (CDA)

Resolution of disputes between Laurion Mining Company and Shor Community, including compensation to affected landowners.

Intervention in conflicts involving Mining Technologies Company (MTC) and Latiya Community.

Ongoing resolution of encroachment cases involving Projecta Mining Company and Sand Hurry Mining Company.

Active participation in Senate Committee engagements, EFCC sensitization programmes, and federal workshops on mining reforms.

He stressed that sustainable mining is impossible without cooperation, mutual respect, and strict adherence to regulations.

Adding the voice of operators, Alhaji Falele Abdullahi, Chairman of the Tin Shed Owners Association, acknowledged the challenges within the sector and pledged stricter self-regulation.

He disclosed that the association, working with security agencies, plans to establish a task force to sanction members operating outside the law.

He clarified that only operators with valid licenses,including  :

Mining/Buying Centre (MBC)

License to Purchase and Process Minerals (LPPM)

Processing Licenses.

are recognized as legitimate members.

On child labor and youth involvement in mining, Alhaji Abdullahi attributed the trend largely to economic hardship, noting that the association is working with stakeholders to curb the practice.

Security Agencies, Institutions, Traditional Leaders in Attendance.

The programme attracted a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including  :

Director-General/CEO, Nigerian Institute of Mining and Geosciences (NIMG)

Department of State Services (DSS).

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Traditional Councils

Miners Association of Nigeria

Community leaders and licensed mining operators.

Their presence underscored the growing recognition that mining reforms require multi-agency collaboration and community trust.

As the event concluded, one message stood clear  : Governor Mutfwang’s mining reforms are reshaping Plateau State’s mineral future.

With a revitalized MIREMCO, strengthened federal-state collaboration, and increased stakeholder accountability, Plateau State appears poised to finally convert its mineral wealth into shared prosperity, environmental protection, and lasting peace.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Former Plateau State Commissioner and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart, Hon. James Yakubu, has formally declared his intention to contest for the National Assembly seat representing the Bassa /Jos North Constituency, describing the move as a renewed call to serve his people.

Yakubu made the declaration during an exclusive interview with journalists at the 2025 Jos North Traditional Council and Jos North Local Government Christmas Carol, held at the Ujah Anaguta Office Compound, Dogon Dutse.

Fresh from the United States, where he has lived for over three decades, Yakubu said he returned to Nigeria specifically to attend the event, which he described as deeply symbolic.

“This is my home,” he said. “I came in from the United States four days ago just to be part of this programme. It is not just a Christmas carol; it is a platform for unity.”

The event, organised by the Anaguta Traditional Council under the royal leadership of the Ujah Anaguta, was aimed at fostering peace and togetherness in Jos North, a metropolitan area with diverse ethnic and religious communities.

Yakubu praised the traditional ruler for his vision, noting that the Christmas carol , now in its second year , has become a cultural tool for promoting harmony.

“Jos North is home to many ethnic groups, but Anaguta remains the custodian of the land. 

This celebration showcases our culture, hospitality and love to both local and international visitors,” he said.

Speaking on the broader message of Christmas, Yakubu called on neighbouring communities to embrace unity beyond religious and tribal differences.

“God created us all. Christmas is about love, giving and unity. Plateau is a land of peace and tourism, and we must continue to project that image,” he said, commending the Plateau State Governor for efforts at promoting peace and development across the state.

Addressing questions about his political ambition, Yakubu recalled his long journey in public service and electoral politics.

He said he first contested for the National Assembly in 2003 and again in 2007 under the PDP, winning party primaries on both occasions but losing at the general elections. He later served in several public roles, including    :

Board member, Plateau Investment and Property Development Company (PIPC) in 2009.

Commissioner for Youths and Sports (2011–2015).

After years of reflection and political study, Yakubu said he believes the time is right to return.

“I am a die-hard PDP member, and PDP remains my platform. Politics is about fairness, transparency and democracy. Everyone should be given a level playing field,” he said.

Yakubu stressed that political competition should not breed enmity, revealing that several of his close associates and relations are also contesting.

“We are brothers. Politics should not divide us. Whoever wins the primaries, we will all support. That is democracy,” he said, drawing parallels with democratic practices in the United States, where he has lived most of his adult life.

Highlighting his achievements, Yakubu said his motivation for public office is rooted in service to humanity.

 He cited scholarships for students, empowerment programmes for widows, community development projects and youth support initiatives.

“From December last year to today, I have spent about ₦47 million supporting communities. 

These are documented and verifiable,” he said, adding that he prefers quiet giving over publicity.

“I give from the heart. God has used me to touch lives, and by His grace, I will do more,” he said.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The ancient palace of the Ujah Anaguta of Jos was aglow with celebration, praise, and cultural harmony as His Royal Majesty, Pozoh Dr. Johnson Jauro Magaji II, President of the Jos North Traditional Council, hosted the 2025 Christmas Carol, a landmark event that brought together government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and residents from across Jos North Local Government Area.

The event commenced with soul-lifting renditions of Christmas hymns, setting a reverent tone for the celebration and reaffirming the palace as a symbol of unity and peaceful coexistence among the diverse communities of Jos North.

Welcoming guests, HRM Ujah Anaguta Johnson Jauro Magaji II, who served as the chief host, described Christmas as a season of love, hope, and reflection. 

He charged residents to embrace peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding beyond the festivities, emphasizing that the birth of Jesus Christ represents peace and salvation to mankind.

 The monarch reiterated the commitment of the Jos North Traditional Council to sustaining the annual Christmas Carol as a unifying platform for all.

The royal father commended community leaders and stakeholders for their consistent support toward promoting peace and development, while also lauding Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for pioneering the Unity Christmas Carol initiative on the Plateau.

 According to him, the governor’s deliberate policy of inclusiveness continues to strengthen unity among different denominations, ethnic nationalities, and social groups across the state.

The presence of the Chairman of Jos North Local Government Area, Barrister J.K. Chris, added further prestige to the event.

 His message was delivered on his behalf by the Council Secretary, Pharmacist Ishaya Samuel Gyang, who also doubled as the Chairman of the Organising Committee for the 2025 Christmas Carol.

In his address, Pharmacist Ishaya Samuel Gyang conveyed the goodwill and warm Christmas message of the Jos North Council Chairman to the traditional ruler and the people. 

He described the Christmas Carol as a timely and impactful initiative that aligns with the local government’s commitment to grassroots peacebuilding, unity, and inclusive governance.

According to him, the administration of Barrister J.K. Chris remains resolute in partnering with traditional institutions and faith-based organisations to foster peaceful coexistence, especially in a cosmopolitan area like Jos North.

 He commended HRM Ujah Anaguta Johnson Jauro Magaji II for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to unity, describing the monarch as a stabilising force and a bridge-builder among communities.

As Chairman of the Organising Committee, Pharmacist Gyang expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, sponsors, security agencies, volunteers, and performers who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event.

 He noted that the overwhelming turnout and smooth coordination of activities reflected the collective desire of the people for peace and harmony.

A major highlight of the celebration was the captivating performances by choirs from different Christian denominations, whose rich harmonies and diverse orientations added colour and spiritual depth to the event.

 Dressed in distinctive denominational attire, the choirs rendered classic and contemporary Christmas carols, drawing applause and active participation from the audience.

Several dignitaries graced the occasion, including members of the Jos North Traditional Council, heads of religious bodies, political office holders, community elders, women leaders, youth representatives, and civil society actors, all united in celebrating the message of Christmas.

In his closing remarks, HRM Ujah Anaguta Johnson Jauro Magaji II thanked the Jos North Local Government Council, the Organising Committee, and all participants for making the 2025 Christmas Carol a resounding success.

 He reaffirmed the Traditional Council’s resolve to continue hosting the annual carol to the glory of God and for the unity of the people.

The event concluded with prayers for peace, progress, and prosperity in Jos North, Plateau State, and Nigeria, as attendees departed in an atmosphere filled with joy, renewed hope, and festive cheer.

This year 2025 Christmas carol has it theme “Joy To The World ,The Saviour Reign”

By Musa Jankada, Jalingo

Taraba State has set a national pace in fiscal governance as the State House of Assembly on Tuesday passed a ₦653.5 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, becoming the first state in Nigeria to approve its appropriation bill for the coming year.

The landmark passage followed the presentation of the budget by Governor Agbu Kefas to the legislature a few weeks ago, a move lawmakers described as a demonstration of effective collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government.

The Speaker of the House, Hon. John Bonzena Kizito, while announcing the passage, described it as a major milestone in the state’s development journey. He commended members of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation for what he termed “extraordinary commitment and sacrifice,” 

noting that the committee worked tirelessly, day and night, to scrutinize the estimates and arrive at a realistic budget figure.

The 2026 budget, christened “Development We Can See,” places strong emphasis on capital development. 

Of the total ₦653.5 billion approved, ₦457 billion, representing 70.36 per cent, is earmarked for capital expenditure, while ₦192 billion, or 29.64 per cent, is allocated to recurrent expenditure.

Governor Kefas had earlier explained that the budget is anchored on impact-driven governance and tangible transformation, with priority attention given to critical infrastructure, especially road construction and transportation, alongside investments in education and healthcare services across the state.

Speaker Bonzena charged standing and ad hoc committees of the House to step up their oversight responsibilities to ensure strict compliance and effective implementation of the budget. He expressed concern over the repeated failure of some heads of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to honour invitations from the Assembly to defend their budget proposals.

“With this passage, Taraba has become the first state in the country to pass its 2026 budget. This clearly shows the commitment, dedication and love members of this House have for the development of our state,” Bonzena declared.

The Speaker also appreciated the people of Taraba State for their continued support of the legislature, urging lawmakers to remain focused on delivering quality representation despite criticisms.

In a related development, Bonzena directed the Clerk of the House, Salmuna Amos Sani, to prepare a clean copy of the appropriation bill for immediate transmission to Governor Kefas for assent.

Earlier, while presenting the report of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, the committee’s Chairman, Hon. Abdullaziz Sulaiman Titong, disclosed that the Assembly approved an additional ₦3 billion increase to the original budget proposal to accommodate new and critical government projects.

By,giwa alex , Jos

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, and his wife, Dr. Martina Nentawe Yilwatda, on their conferment with the prestigious Tiv traditional chieftaincy title of Zegembar-u-Tiv.

Governor Mutfwang, in a statement issued on Monday 15th December 2025,  by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, described the honour bestowed on Prof. Yilwatda by the Tiv traditional institution as fitting and well deserved.

He expressed profound appreciation to His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, the Tor Tiv, and the Tiv Traditional Council for recognising Prof. Yilwatda’s outstanding contributions to the Tiv nation and the country at large.

The Governor noted that the conferment of the revered chieftaincy title was a testament to Prof. Yilwatda’s steadfast commitment to purposeful leadership, peace-building, unity, and national cohesion.

According to him, the recognition would further strengthen the age-long bonds of brotherhood and decades of mutual cooperation between the people of Plateau and Benue States, as well as the wider Middle Belt region, united by shared heritage and common destiny.

Governor Mutfwang, on behalf of his family, the Government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, congratulated Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe and his wife on the well-deserved honour.

He prayed that God would grant them renewed strength, divine wisdom, and good health as they continue to serve humanity and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

By , giwa alex , Jos

Despite a landmark judgment of the Court of Appeal declaring the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) illegal across Nigeria, officers of the Plateau State VIO have continued operations on state and federal roads, openly dismissing the ruling as “not applicable” to Plateau State.

Our investigation reports that the Court of Appeal, sitting in Abuja, on December 4th, 2025, affirmed a lower court judgment barring the Vehicle Inspection Office from stopping vehicles, impounding them, confiscating documents, or imposing fines on motorists nationwide.

The ruling followed a suit filed by Abubakar Marshal, a human rights activist and public interest lawyer, who challenged the legality of VIO road operations.

 In its judgment, the court not only restrained the agency but also awarded ₦1 million in damages to the plaintiff, describing the actions of the VIO as unlawful.

The judgment was widely hailed as a major victory for motorists’ rights and was expected to bring relief to millions of road users across the country.

However, “Gnews” investigative team discovered that VIO officers in Plateau State have continued to mount roadblocks and impound vehicles, in apparent defiance of the court order.

When this medium visited the Plateau State VIO office along Ahmadu Bello Way, Jos, a senior officer of the agency openly dismissed the judgment, insisting it had no bearing on Plateau State.

“Yes, I have heard of the judgment,” the senior officer told said. “But it is against Nigerian VIO in Abuja. You must know that all states have their own VIO. Plateau State has its own. If a judgment is delivered against Nigeria, it is against Abuja.”

The officer maintained that the Plateau State VIO derives its authority independently and is therefore not bound by the Court of Appeal ruling.

This position has raised serious legal and constitutional concerns, as legal experts argue that decisions of the Court of Appeal are binding on all authorities and institutions across the country, including state agencies.

The continued presence of Plateau State VIO officials on highways has sparked public outrage, with motorists questioning whether state agencies can selectively obey court judgments.

This medium reports that its investigative team is now moving to the Plateau State Ministry of Transport to seek official clarification on the state government’s position regarding the judgment and the continued operations of the VIO.

By,giwa alex, jos

The Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, has called on church leaders and Christians across the country to intensify prayers for those in positions of authority, stressing that divine wisdom and guidance are essential for national growth and effective governance.

The Speaker made the call on Sunday during the end-of-year thanksgiving service of the Parliament Church in Jos, where he worshipped alongside his family amid a large gathering of church members, government officials, and invited guests.

Opening the service with vibrant worship, thanksgiving, and praise, Rt. Hon. Daniel joined the congregation in expressing gratitude to God for His faithfulness throughout the year. He acknowledged God’s mercy upon the Church, its members and families, Plateau State, and the nation at large, describing prayer as a cornerstone for unity, peace, and development.

Addressing the congregation, the Speaker noted that leaders across the country are confronted with complex challenges, urging believers to consistently intercede for those in authority so they can govern with wisdom, grace, and strength. 

He commended the Parliament Church for its steadfast commitment to praying for leaders at all levels, emphasizing that sincere prayers help redirect leadership towards selfless service and accountability.

As part of the thanksgiving activities, Rt. Hon. Daniel, on behalf of the Thanksgiving Planning Committee, presented a token of appreciation to the host pastor, Pastor Helens Kanos, in recognition of her spiritual leadership and unwavering dedication to the work of God.

The highlight of the service was the sermon delivered by the guest preacher and former President of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Rev. Stephen Baba Panya. Speaking on the theme “Thanking God with a Grateful Heart,” he urged worshippers to remain joyful always, pray continually, and give thanks to God in all circumstances.

Several dignitaries graced the occasion, including former members representing Qua’an Pan, Shendam, and Mikang Federal Constituency, Hon. George Daika and Hon. Innocent Tisel; Plateau State Commissioner for Works, Hon. Ubandoma Laven; members of the Kaduna State House of Assembly; former Chairman of Mikang Local Government Council, Hon. Ezekiel Vulgap; Chief of Staff to the Speaker, Hon. Nicholas Kongbaam Honsun; staff of the Plateau State House of Assembly; and other aides of the Speaker, who attended in solidarity with the Church.

The thanksgiving service climaxed with intense worship and praise, featuring colourful renditions and energetic performances by children of the church, adding joy and excitement to the atmosphere.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State politics was reignited on Sunday 14th December 2025 as Dr. Danyaro Dakon Sarpiya formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), drawing a mammoth crowd of supporters, party faithful, and stakeholders across Amphang West Ward and Mangu Local Government Area.

The former governorship candidate, who contested in the 2023 general election, made his declaration in a carefully coordinated grassroots engagement that began at his Amphang West Ward before extending to APC stakeholders at the Mangu Local Government level.

Dr. Sarpiya first unveiled his ambition before a large and enthusiastic gathering in his home ward, Amphang West, where party members welcomed him with chants and applause.

Addressing the crowd, Sarpiya reminded supporters of his political journey, particularly his participation in the 2023 governorship election, where he emerged as a strong contender on the APC platform.

“I was here some years ago to declare my intention to contest for governor, but the outcome of the party primaries did not favour me.

 We accepted everything in good faith, believing that God’s will is supreme. Today, I have returned to tell my people that I am still in the race,” he said.

He explained that his decision to recontest followed extensive consultations with community leaders, party stakeholders, and supporters within and outside the ward.

“I am not driven by personal interest. I am seeking this seat for the development of Plateau State. Our people are suffering from insecurity, injustice, and lack of development. If you give me your support, by the grace of God, I will show you the difference,” Sarpiya assured.

He stressed that he is a leader who believes in action rather than rhetoric.

“I am not someone who believes in empty promises. I prefer to act and allow the people to see the results,” he added.

Stakeholders who spoke at the ward meeting poured glowing accolades on the aspirant, describing him as simple, humble, patient, generous, and accessible.

One of the speakers, Honourable Timothy Ndiaga, a former councillor of Kampong West Ward and former member of the Plateau State House of Assembly, described Sarpiya as a dependable party man who has remained consistent despite political setbacks.

“He is a patient man, a good listener, and someone who respects people. These are the qualities of a true leader. We believe he has what it takes to govern Plateau State,” Ndiaga said.

Following his ward-level declaration, Dr. Sarpiya proceeded to Mangu Federal Ward, where he met with APC stakeholders and party executives to formally inform them of his ambition.

At the meeting, he reiterated his commitment to the APC and emphasized that his re-entry into the governorship race was a collective decision endorsed by party leaders and grassroots supporters.

“As a loyal party man, I deemed it necessary to return to my roots and also meet with our stakeholders at the local government level.

 They have encouraged me to contest again, and I am grateful for their confidence in me,” he said.

Sarpiya also addressed concerns about political rivalry within the local government, noting that although the incumbent governor hails from the same ward under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), democracy allows for free political competition.

“This is the beauty of democracy. We can come from the same community but belong to different parties and ideologies. There is nothing wrong with that,” he stated.

He dismissed speculations that the incumbent governor was defecting to the APC, clarifying that no official declaration had been made.

APC leaders at the Mangu level expressed excitement over Sarpiya’s declaration, describing his return as timely and strategic ahead of 2027.

Some stakeholders, while welcoming new members into the party, cautioned against allowing opportunistic defections to destabilize the APC structure.

“We welcome everyone into APC, but people must follow due process. We should not allow strangers to take over the house we have laboured to build,” one of the party leaders warned.

Concluding his engagements, Dr. Sarpiya assured party members that an APC-led government under his leadership would usher in unprecedented development in Plateau State.

“By the grace of God, APC will take over Plateau State in 2027. If I am given the mandate, Plateau will witness what it has never seen before,” he declared.

The declaration has since sparked renewed political conversations across the state, positioning Dr. Danyaro Dakon Sarpiya as one of the early contenders in the race for the Plateau State Government House in 2027.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Mrs. Sarah Dakum, wife of the renowned public health expert and statesman, Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, today marked her birthday in what has become a historic and joyful moment for the Dakum family, as the celebration coincided with the wedding ceremonies of their twin sons.

In a congratulatory message, Shabul Mazadu, Publisher of The Beacon’s Newspaper and Media Consultant to Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, described the day as one of “rare providence and double honour,” blending personal celebration with family fulfillment.

Earlier in the day, Mrs. Dakum was celebrated for attaining another year of impactful life, defined by unwavering support to her family and steadfast dedication to home and community. 

She was extolled as a woman of virtue, strength, and quiet influence whose role as a devoted wife and mother has remained central to the remarkable achievements of her husband.

The celebrations reached a crescendo as the Dakum family witnessed the weddings of their sons, Retji Dakum and Plangji Dakum, who were joined in holy matrimony to Kangyang and Pamela, respectively. 

The twin weddings added profound joy and generational significance to an already memorable day.

Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum is the Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), a Professor of Public Health at the School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, USA, and the Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 general elections.

Speaking on the occasion, Mazadu noted that Mrs. Dakum’s life exemplifies “chaste homemaking, rare motherhood, and inspirational partnership,” virtues that have continued to propel the Dakum household toward excellence and service.

“As she celebrates her birthday alongside the weddings of her sons,” Mazadu prayed, “may the Almighty God grant Mrs. Sarah Dakum many more years in sound health, peace, and prosperity, and may the new homes established today flourish in love and purpose.”

By,giwa alex, Jos

What we are witnessing goes far beyond mere absurdity; it is a profound cultural and moral contradiction. 

A judiciary that has repeatedly failed to arraign bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists, individuals whose crimes against humanity are well-documented, whose victims are counted in thousands, and whose actions have torn communities apart,has now found the courage to symbolically put ancestral spirits on trial. This act is not just ironic; it is deeply troubling.

In African cosmology, ancestors are not fictional characters or objects of ridicule. They represent memory, continuity, moral authority, and the spiritual foundation upon which communities are built. 

To drag ancestral symbols into a judicial spectacle is to place African culture and tradition themselves in the dock.

 It reduces sacred heritage to satire and treats spiritual belief systems with a level of disrespect that would never be extended to other faiths or worldviews.

This raises a disturbing question: when justice cannot confront the living perpetrators of violence,armed bandits who roam freely, kidnappers who negotiate openly, terrorists who issue threats with impunity,why does it suddenly become bold when dealing with the symbolic and the defenseless? 

The answer is uncomfortable but clear. It is easier to prosecute what cannot resist. It is safer to interrogate myths than to confront men with guns. In such moments, the judiciary ceases to be an instrument of justice and becomes a stage for performative authority.

In such moments, the judiciary ceases to be an instrument of justice and becomes a stage for performative authority.

By placing African ancestral traditions under scrutiny while real criminals remain untouched, the system sends a dangerous message   : 

that African culture is negotiable, mockable, and expendable, while criminal power is to be feared and accommodated.

 This inversion of values undermines not only justice but also the dignity of the people whose lives and identities are rooted in these traditions.

Those responsible for this act must understand its gravity. Beyond legal misjudgment, it constitutes a spiritual and cultural violation. In African thought, sacred matters mishandled invite imbalance,not just for individuals, but for institutions. 

It is therefore appropriate to call on those behind this action to seek cleansing   : 

moral, cultural, and spiritual. Not as superstition, but as acknowledgment of wrongdoing; not as ritual alone, but as repentance and restoration of respect.

Justice must face the guilty, not caricature the sacred. Until the judiciary finds the courage to confront those who spill innocent blood, any attempt to appear firm by desecrating tradition will remain hollow,and history will judge it accordingly.

By ,  Musa Jankada, Jalingo

The stakeholders at a national conference on violent conflict and peacebuilding in Taraba State has emphasized the need for inclusive parties engagement to address the root causes of conflicts.

This was contained in a communique signed by Dr. Buhari Shehu Miapyen, Chairman and Dr. Nsemba Edward Lenshie Secretary released at a three days meeting, organized by the Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution,Taraba State University in collaboration with the Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management on Thursday in Jalingo.

Correspondent reports that a diverse gathering of academics, policymakers, traditional rulers, security agencies, civil society organizations, youth and women groups, religious leaders, community representatives, and international partners were in attendance.

It noted that the stakeholders has identified competition over land, water, and grazing resources, ethnic mistrust, and weak governance as key drivers of violence in the country.

The communique localized clashes between farmer-herder conflicts have increased, with climate change and environmental pressures exacerbating resource competition.

“The conference noted disturbing trends in the evolution of violent conflicts across the state. Localized clashes, attacks, and reprisal incidents have become more frequent in various Local Government Areas, and farmer–herder conflicts have grown increasingly complex, often involving more sophisticated weaponry. Rising incidents of banditry, kidnapping, and insecurity along highways have introduced new layers of instability.

“Stakeholders expressed concern about the rise of misinformation and inflammatory content on social media, especially during politically sensitive periods. Additionally, climate-related disruptions such as drought, flooding, and unpredictable rainfall patterns are intensifying resource-related conflicts.
The consequences of these conflicts have been far-reaching.

“Communities continue to suffer loss of lives, destruction of homes and farmlands, and mass displacement. Agriculture, the backbone of the state’s economy, has been severely affected, with impacts on food security and livelihoods. Schools, health centres, and other essential services in conflict-prone areas have faced repeated disruptions. Economic losses have mounted due to the destruction of infrastructure, reduced investment activities, and increased security expenditures.

“The psychological impact of violence, including trauma, fear, and prolonged distress, remains prevalent, particularly among vulnerable groups such as women and children. Moreover, the erosion of trust among communities has deepened social fragmentation and weakened inter-group cooperation.

“Despite these challenges, the conference acknowledged ongoing Peacebuilding efforts across the state. Participants commended the Taraba State Government for its continued role in promoting security and peace initiatives, particularly through the Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management and collaborative interventions with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community actors.

“However, they emphasized that more concerted and strategic efforts are needed to address persistent conflict flashpoints, especially in areas such as Karim Lamido, Donga, Takum and Wukari Local Government Areas, where tensions and violent incidents have continued to threaten community stability.

“The Taraba State Government, through the Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management, has established mediation and dialogue mechanisms to address emerging conflicts. Traditional and religious leaders continue to play instrumental roles in resolving disputes and fostering reconciliation.

“Civil society organizations and academic institutions, including Taraba State University, have advanced peace education, research, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives. Security agencies have increased surveillance and intervention efforts in identified flashpoints,” communique read.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Former Plateau State Governor  Senator, Joshua Chibi Dariye, Ph.D., has expressed profound sorrow over the devastating accident that claimed the lives of eight students of the University of Jos in the early hours of Thursday 11th December 2025.

In a condolence message addressed to the management of the University, Senator Dariye described the tragedy as “a monumental loss”, not only to the institution and the bereaved families, but to Plateau State and the nation at large.

According to him, the heartbreaking news reverberated far beyond the University campus, plunging the entire Plateau community into deep grief.

 “Words alone cannot explain how I feel about the loss of these vibrant students whose lives were cut short by the tragic accident.

 I pray the University does not go through this harrowing experience again,” he stated.

Senator Dariye extended his condolences to the immediate families of the deceased, praying that God grants their souls eternal rest and comforts all who are affected by the incident.

He further called on regulatory agencies to intensify surveillance and enforcement on major highways to curb the persistent wave of avoidable road accidents that continue to claim innocent lives across the country.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has expressed deep sorrow over the heartbreaking death of seven students of the University of Jos, including the President of the National Association of Plateau State Students (NAPSS), who lost their lives in a fatal accident in the early hours of Thursday, 11th December 2025.

In his condolence message issued on Thursday, Governor Mutfwang described the tragic incident as “a devastating blow to the families, the University of Jos, the student community, Plateau State, and the nation.” 

He noted that the deceased students were young, vibrant, and full of promise, adding that their untimely passing leaves a painful void.

The Governor further disclosed that several other students sustained varying degrees of injuries in the accident. 

He prayed for their swift recovery and directed the Commissioner for Health to ensure that every injured student receives urgent, adequate, and comprehensive medical attention.

Reaffirming the state government’s support, Governor Mutfwang assured the bereaved families that the government will stand firmly with them during this difficult period. 

He instructed the Commissioner for Youth and Sports and the Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation to liaise closely with affected families, student bodies, and the University of Jos to ensure that the deceased are accorded a dignified and befitting burial.

On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the departed students, the University of Jos community, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council, and the broader Plateau student constituency. He prayed for God’s comfort and strength upon all who are grieving.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State has announced an ambitious drive to become one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing digital innovation hubs ,a vision boldly championed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and delivered on his behalf by his Deputy, Hon. Ngo Josephine Piyo.

Speaking while representing Governor Mutfwang at the 13th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy in Jos, Deputy Governor Piyo declared that Plateau is “firmly positioning itself as Nigeria’s emerging digital destination.”

She praised the council’s theme, which focused on accelerating inclusive digital transformation, calling it timely as Nigeria stands at a defining technological crossroads. 

According to her, digital innovation has now become indispensable for economic competitiveness, national stability, and social equity.

Piyo highlighted persistent challenges, including limited broadband penetration and low digital literacy, particularly among youth, women, and persons with disabilities. 

She reaffirmed the Mutfwang administration’s determination to close these gaps through expanded broadband infrastructure, youth-focused tech skills programs, and stronger support systems for startups, including mentorship and access to essential digital tools.

In a keynote address delivered by the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, on behalf of Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, the federal government stressed the pivotal role digital transformation will play in Nigeria’s future. 

While young Nigerians continue driving tech solutions nationwide, gaps in connectivity, literacy, and innovation financing must be urgently bridged.

Gagare emphasized that only robust collaboration among federal, state, and private stakeholders will ensure that digital progress reaches every citizen.

Earlier, Plateau State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, welcomed delegates, highlighting the honor of hosting the national council and reiterating that true innovation must respect cultural heritage while driving sustainable development.

The event also featured recognitions and progress reports. Anambra State emerged overall best in the Innovation Peer Review, with Kaduna, Oyo, and Enugu also acknowledged for excellence. 

Kano State Commissioner Dr. Yusuf Kofar Mata revealed that 116 policy memos were presented, the majority receiving approval,a strong signal of nationwide commitment to digital advancement.

Traditional institutions were not left out. The Gbong Gwom Jos, HRM Da Jacob Gyang Buba, through his representative, The Gwom Rwei Gashish, Prof. Nuhu G.G. Dangata, urged that traditional leaders be integrated into future tech initiatives to enhance community adoption and trust.

Plateau Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Joyce Ramnap, expressed gratitude to participants for choosing Plateau, affirming the state’s strong track record in hosting major national events. 

Hon. Yiljab Abraham, representing the Chief of Staff, Hon. Jeremiah Satmak, appealed for digital transformation to penetrate rural communities through improved connectivity, inclusion, and security.

The conference concluded with a united commitment to build a digitally inclusive Nigeria. For Plateau State, under Governor Mutfwang’s visionary leadership,articulated by his Deputy Piyo,the journey toward becoming a national digital powerhouse is well underway.

By Giwa Alex, Jos

Zamfara State has once again seized the national spotlight as it emerged Best State in E-Governance Implementation and First Runner-Up in ICT Human Capital Development at the 13th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) held at Crispan Hotel, Rayfield, Jos,an achievement credited to the sweeping digital reforms of Governor Dauda Lawal Dare.

The announcement was made by the Executive Secretary of the Zamfara State Information Technology Development Agency (ZALTODA), Dr. Habib Gajam, during an exclusive interview with G-News at the five-day national gathering which ran from December 8th–12th, 2025.

Dr. Gajam revealed that since Governor Dauda Lawal assumed office, Zamfara embarked on an unprecedented digital transformation agenda aimed at rebuilding public service delivery and modernizing governance structures across the state.

According to him, the state government has  :

Digitalized operations across ministries, departments and agencies

Strengthened public service efficiency through seamless E-governance platforms

Improved inter-agency connectivity with high-speed internet

Supplied critical ICT tools including laptops, desktops and printers

Enhanced statewide digital infrastructure to support modern governance

“These interventions were deliberate steps to build a fully functional, tech-driven public sector,” he said.

Speaking on the significance of the national honours, Dr. Gajam offered a vivid analogy  :

“If you have a child in school and you invest in their fees, uniforms and textbooks, it is only fair to expect results. 

Likewise, Zamfara State has invested significantly in ICT, and this award reflects the outcome of those efforts.”

He noted that this latest milestone continues the momentum built last year when Zamfara won Best State in Digital Infrastructure Development at a national event in Benue, saying the awards show the state is “clearly doing something right.”

Beyond administrative reforms, Zamfara’s digital revolution has also been deployed in the fight against insecurity.

Dr. Gajam disclosed that the government has invested heavily in a modern Command and Control Centre, a platform that enables citizens to report security incidents directly from their communities.

“Intelligence is an integral element in fighting insecurity,” he stressed.

“With these digital platforms, security agencies are now more proactive, better informed and more responsive.”

This year’s NCCIDE meeting, themed “Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation  :

 Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation,” brought together commissioners, ICT experts, federal officials and state representatives to discuss the future of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

The event was organized by the Federal Ministry of Communications in collaboration with the Government of Plateau State.

From a state once perceived as lagging behind in development, Zamfara is steadily rewriting its story. Under Governor Dauda Lawal’s visionary leadership, it is now emerging as a model of digital governance and innovation.

Dr. Gajam concluded on an optimistic note  :

“We are only getting started. More groundbreaking initiatives are on the way.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) Managing Director, Dr. Cyril Tsenyil, has mourned the tragic death of eight students of the University of Jos following a fatal accident that occurred at dawn on Thursday, 11th December 2025, along the Farin Gada–Zaria road in Jos, Plateau State.

The crash, which sent shockwaves across the University of Jos community and the entire state, claimed the lives of several young scholars,including the President of the National Association of Plateau State Students (NAPSS) and the President of the Social Science Students,cutting short what many described as promising leadership trajectories.

Reacting to the heartbreaking incident, Dr. Tsenyil described the loss as a “painful blow” to the North Central region.

 He emphasized that the magnitude of grief felt across Plateau State underscores the value and potential of the students whose futures were abruptly halted.

In a condolence message, he extended sympathy to the families of the deceased, the University of Jos community, the people of Jos North, and the Plateau State Government, praying for divine comfort and strength during this difficult period.

Dr. Tsenyil also reaffirmed NCDC’s commitment to collaborating with relevant authorities to improve road safety measures and emergency response systems across the region, noting that tragedies of this scale must drive renewed action to protect young lives.

 “This tragedy leaves us heartbroken,” he stated. “May God console every mourning household and grant eternal rest to the souls that have gone ahead. 

May this incident inspire renewed commitment toward safeguarding the lives of our young people.”

By,giwa alex , Jos

The wave of national recognition surrounding Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, swelled on Wednesday 10th December 2025, as the Silverbird Group Editorial Board officially named him Silverbird Governor of the Year 2025, celebrating what it described as his transformative, courageous and people-focused leadership since assuming office in May 2023.

The prestigious nomination was presented to the Governor in Lagos by the Chairman of the Silverbird Editorial Board and Chief Creative Officer, Mr. Jacob Akinyemi Johnson, who led a high-level delegation including the Head of News, Rhythm FM, Mr. Mustapha Isah, and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Bola Salako.

According to the letter of nomination personally signed by Silverbird Founder, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, Governor Mutfwang emerged after a thorough, independent evaluation of his impact across Plateau State.

The Board stated that feedback from its correspondents, coupled with an on-the-ground inspection by a Nigerian Guild of Editors delegation, confirmed that the Governor has delivered remarkable progress in  :

Road construction and infrastructure renewal

Education transformation

Agriculture development

Tourism revitalization

Health sector improvement

Strengthening security collaboration with federal agencies

Senator Murray-Bruce commended Mutfwang’s “uncommon courage” in supporting security agencies confronting the state’s complex security challenges, noting that his leadership has significantly renewed trust and hope among citizens.

Highlighting the significance of the honour, Mr. Johnson explained that the Silverbird Man of the Year Award, instituted two decades ago, is reserved for distinguished Nigerians who use public office to uplift the vulnerable and deliver measurable impact.

He said Governor Mutfwang’s nomination reflects the visible changes witnessed across Plateau State and the renewed optimism his administration has inspired among the populace.

Responding with deep gratitude, Governor Mutfwang described the recognition as “a deeply fulfilling honour,” emphasizing that the award affirms his administration’s commitment to laying a solid and sustainable foundation for Plateau’s accelerated development.

He recalled that upon assuming office, his government prioritized   :

restoring public confidence in leadership,

stabilizing security,

strengthening inclusive governance, and

delivering essential amenities and transformative projects across the state.

Mutfwang reiterated his philosophy of leadership :

 “Service to humanity is not for self-glorification. Being entrusted with public office is a privilege. Once chosen among millions, you must justify that trust by working tirelessly for their wellbeing.”

On workers’ welfare, he stressed that while “paying salaries is a right, not an achievement,” long-term solutions lie in expanding the economy and boosting revenue to meet citizens’ needs.

With heartfelt appreciation, Governor Mutfwang dedicated the award to the resilient people of Plateau State—the market women, youths, and less privileged whose unwavering trust and sacrifices, he said, played a pivotal role in enthroning the current administration.

By,giwa alex, Jos

In a landmark decision that is already sending ripples across Nigeria’s political landscape, the Conference of Autochthonous Ethnic Nationalities Community Development Associations (CONAECDA) has formally adopted the zoning of the 2027 presidential seat to the Southern region of Nigeria.

The declaration was contained in a communiqué signed by the Conference President, Danladi Jeji, and Secretary, Suleman D. Sukukum, at the close of CONAECDA’s 12th Annual Conference, held in Jos, Plateau State, from December 4th–7th, 2025.

According to the communiqué, the influential body reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s long-standing power rotation principle, insisting that after the presidency returns to the South in 2027, it should move to either the North East or North Central by 2031, in line with what it described as a fair and stabilizing zoning arrangement.

Delegates at the conference applauded the CONAECDA Secretariat for its ongoing engagements with governments at the state, regional, and federal levels, and resolved to sustain these non-partisan interventions aimed at fostering inclusion and strengthening governance.

The community leaders further pledged to intensify efforts toward deepening democracy, vowing to champion voter education, town hall dialogues, and election monitoring as the nation moves closer to another critical election cycle.

The statement was issued by Stephen Sarki Musa, Media Officer of CONAECDA, on December 10th, 2025.

PPA Honor Corps Elizabeth Usen Ameh

By, giwa alex, Jos

A fresh wave of solidarity swept through Plateau State as more individuals and groups continued to visit Hon. Ernest Abner Da’a, the newly appointed Ambassador and State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The latest delegation to storm his office was the team of immediate past legislative members of the Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council (LGC).

Led by Hon. Jonah Damar, the former legislators arrived with a clear mission: to reaffirm their loyalty and express their full commitment to working with Hon. Da’a in delivering the mandate of the Renewed Hope Agenda across the state.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Damar extended deep appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising him for what he described as a strategic and well-calculated appointment. 

He said the President made the “right choice,” insisting that Hon. Da’a possesses the capacity, competence, and credibility required to excel in his new assignment.

In his response, an evidently moved Hon. Da’a expressed gratitude over the growing stream of support. 

He assured the delegation of his readiness to work hand-in-hand with them and with the entire APC political structures across Plateau State to ensure a resounding success of the assignment entrusted to him.

He urged the former lawmakers to begin mobilisation immediately, not only within their respective wards but across the state, stressing that the Renewed Hope mission requires collective energy and proactive engagement.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau Publishers Association (PPA), on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025, honoured Corps Commander (Nursing) Elizabeth Usen Ameh of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Zonal Headquarters Jos, for a decade of extraordinary community service that has touched the lives of more than 5,600 women and children across Plateau State.

The event, held at the FRSC Zonal Headquarters, was nothing short of emotional ,a cocktail of tributes, testimonies and gratitude , all orbiting around one woman whose story began not in comfort, but in pain.

For Corps Commander Elizabeth Usen Ameh, the journey began the day her life changed forever.

 As a young girl, she lost her only brother,a 12-year-old student of St, Muluba College,after he was knocked down on his way to school. Four children were hit; he never made it back home.

“That incident,” she told the audience, “became a turning point for my family. It planted a burden in my heart , a burden to speak, to teach, to warn, so that no other family will experience what mine went through.”

This personal tragedy would later grow into a movement ,one that would redefine community health and child safety in Plateau State.

Determined to turn pain into purpose, Elizabeth Usen Ameh launched her first outreach on February 23rd, 2015 at LEA Primary School, Jos North.

There, her small team dewormed 800 pupils from Primary 1–6 in commemoration of the FRSC Act 27.

The Ministry of Health was represented by the  Dr. Azut, and NTA covered the event , a sign of greater things to come.

By 2019, her humanitarian engine roared into full speed, powered by generous partners such as Chan Medifam, CBN Jos, Unity FM, NTA, Highland FM, SUBEB, NGOs and medical collaborators.

May 13th, 2019,Government College, Zaria Road

Over 100 JSS1 students received deworming medication and road-safety education.

Chan Medifam’s MD/CEO, Mr. Michael Evans, donated everything needed for the programme and attended personally.

The Ministry of Health was represented by Dr. A.K. Samuel.

Unity FM 93.3 was on ground to cover the event.

July 12th, 2019 ,Sabon Peggy, Jos South

A total of 225 pupils (Primary 5 & 6) were dewormed.

Chan Medifam again provided full support.

Media coverage came from Unity FM, NTA and Highland FM.

November 4, 2019 , LEA Primary School, Sabon Peggy

This time, 581 pupils (Primary 2–5) were reached.

Chan Medifam’s PA, Mr. Lea Maswais, represented the organization.

The Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Irmi Wrr, attended.

 November 6th, 2019 , Naraguta/Zololo, Jos North

This outreach reached a staggering 900 pupils, from Nursery 1 to Primary 6.

The village head, Engr. Ahmed M. Bello, was represented by the late Alh. Shuaibu Abdullahi, who arrived even before the team , a gesture that touched the celebrant deeply.

November 13th, 2019 , Yelwan Zangam, Jos North

This incredible effort reached 558 pupils , pre-primary to Primary 6.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Jos Branch donated all deworming tablets.

A major supporter at this stage was Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, through her NGO KRSD Trust Fund, which also donated books and medical supplies.

It was here that a village stakeholder, Mr. Adamu Haruna, made an unforgettable statement  :

 “Since the establishment of this school in 1979, no one , no person, no organisation , has ever come to do anything like this.”

Over the years that followed, Corps Commander Elizabeth Usen Ameh continued to execute quiet but impactful community programs , maternal health sessions, breastfeeding education, distribution of books, nutritional supplements, iron tablets, health talks and road-safety enlightenment.

In one memorable programme, she taught breastfeeding mothers both infant and maternal health , a session that Publisher Shabul Mazadu humorously referenced during his goodwill message  :

“She taught the mothers that the breast is not only for the baby ,the husband too has benefits”

His remark drew warm laughter, reminding the audience that her methods were sometimes unconventional, but always effective.

The 2025 award ceremony radiated admiration for Corps Commander Elizabeth Usen Ameh.

Deputy Corps Commander Gabriel G. Taya, representing the Zonal Commanding Officer, described her as  :

“A shining example of how a uniformed officer can step beyond the office desk and touch lives.”

Deputy Corps Commander Kabir M. Alkali, representing the Sector Commander, added  :

 “This is what we want FRSC to be known for , compassion, service and prevention.”

DCC Mrs. Gloria Ofulani, Head of Operations, praised her as  :

“A mentor whose simplicity hides a powerful force for change.”

The PPA Chairman, Mr. Yakubu Samaila Ajala, stated boldly   :

 “She is not just an asset to FRSC; she is an asset to Plateau and Nigeria. Her work has gone where many people never go ,the forgotten schools and villages.”

Her husband, Mr. Ameh, rendered a heartfelt message  :

 “In this context, I do not see her as my wife.

I see her as someone touching lives, just like Mandela and Mother Teresa did , small steps that become global footprints.”

He thanked the FRSC leadership for giving her space to serve.

Another senior officer described her work as a definition of true service  :

“She has gone out of the office desk and into the community.

This recognition today is because she dared to do what many only talk about.”

 “Our founding fathers were born on the same day as their mates.

Yet we hear only their names today because they sacrificed themselves for others.

Elizabeth has done the same.”

In her acceptance message, Corps Commander (Nurse) Elizabeth Usen Ameh said  :

 “This award belongs to my team, my colleagues and the resilient mothers and children in our communities.

Your support made everything possible.”

She pledged to keep breaking boundaries in child health and road safety advocacy.

PPA’s citation highlighted her  :

5,602 beneficiaries

12 school health outreaches

2 maternal health programmes

Over 10 partners and donors mobilized

Relentless advocacy linking child health to road safety

“A bridge between health and safety, between government and community, between pain and purpose.”

From a childhood tragedy emerged a woman whose compassion has become a lifeline for thousands.

Today, Corps Commander (Nurse) Elizabeth Usen Ameh stands celebrated ,not because she sought recognition, but because her works made silence impossible.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb  Mutfwang, has issued a bold national call-to-action, urging Nigerian academics to elevate agricultural research to the level of a national emergency in order to rescue the country from persistent food insecurity.

The Governor made the declaration on Monday 8th December 2025 in Jos while receiving the National Leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), who are in the state for the Union’s 18th National Delegates Conference.

Welcoming the delegates, Governor Mutfwang described their choice of Plateau for a major national event as a “clear expression of confidence” in his administration’s strides toward peace and restored public trust.

“Plateau is proud to host you,” he said, noting that the state’s improving security climate reflects the joint commitment of citizens and security agencies. 

He added that Plateau is steadily regaining its status as a safe, attractive venue for national gatherings.

The Governor used the platform to challenge the Nigerian academic community to champion a new era of research-driven agricultural productivity, insisting that Nigeria can no longer rely on imports for items it is naturally equipped to produce.

“Research must now become the engine room of our agricultural revival,” he declared.

 “A nation with our endowments should be exporting, not importing. Academics must lead the charge toward food sufficiency and technology transfer.”

Reaffirming his commitment to education reform, Governor Mutfwang reiterated plans to transform Plateau State Polytechnic into a full-fledged Technical University.

According to him, the long-standing distinction between universities and polytechnics has become obsolete.

“The artificial wall between polytechnics and universities has outlived its usefulness. Both institutions draw from the same intellectual capital. It is time to embrace an innovation-driven model,” he asserted.

He highlighted the institution’s dramatic growth,from 3,000 to 8,000 students in just one year,attributing the progress to targeted investments in accreditation, staffing, and leadership.

“These achievements may not dominate headlines, but they represent the silent progress that defines our governance philosophy,” he added.

Addressing national challenges, especially insecurity, the Governor warned against divisive rhetoric.

“This is not a season for name calling. It is a season for action. Our country needs problem-solvers, not blame merchants,” he cautioned, urging academics to contribute knowledge-based solutions rather than deepen divisions.

Earlier, ASUP National President Comrade Shammah Kpanja praised the Governor for restoring stability and purposeful leadership in Plateau State.

He also commended the appointment of Dr. Clement Chirman as Rector of Plateau State Polytechnic, and appealed for a review of the institution’s enabling law and improved staff welfare.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

The Taraba State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mr. Ella Aji Williams, has issued a resounding call to newly deployed corps members, urging them to uphold and project the core values of the Scheme as they begin their service year across the state.

Speaking on Tuesday, 9th December 2025, during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Batch C Stream I Orientation Course, Williams declared that the corps members had already demonstrated commendable discipline, respect, and enthusiasm throughout their three-week camp activities.

He reminded them that the service year represents both a national assignment and a period of personal transformation, stressing that community engagement remains the backbone of the Scheme.

According to him, corps members must seize the opportunity to initiate impactful Community Development Service (CDS) projects capable of solving real-life challenges in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, environment, and community empowerment.

Williams expressed gratitude to the Taraba State Governor for the administration’s continued support to the Scheme, noting that the enabling environment provided by the state government has enhanced the success of NYSC programmes.

Describing Taraba as a state rich in cultural diversity and hospitality, the Coordinator urged corps members to relate with their host communities with humility, respect, and a genuine commitment to service.

“You are ambassadors of the NYSC, and your conduct will reflect the image of the Scheme,” he said.

 “Your service year is not just a contribution to national development but also a journey of personal discovery. 

Build relationships, acquire new skills, and leave positive footprints wherever you go.”

He further cautioned them to remain security conscious, avoid unnecessary risks, respect local laws and customs, and maintain open communication with the NYSC management, their employers, and colleagues.

“Your safety remains our utmost priority,” he added.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has joined well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond to celebrate the 88th birthday of elder statesman and retired military icon, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (GCON).

In a heartfelt congratulatory message issued on Monday, 8th December 3025, Governor Mutfwang described Gen. Danjuma as “a symbol of excellence, an exemplary philanthropist, and a beacon of hope whose life has been wholly devoted to the defence, progress, and upliftment of humanity.”

According to the governor, Danjuma’s towering contributions to national unity, military service, business, philanthropy, and leadership remain unmatched. He noted that millions of Nigerians continue to benefit from the General’s far-reaching interventions across communities.

Recalling Danjuma’s journey through public life, Governor Mutfwang praised him as “a father, mentor, leader, and General par excellence whose life story radiates service, courage, and greatness.”

 He said the celebrant stands tall as an extraordinary achiever blessed with rare grace to excel in multiple spheres.

The governor highlighted Danjuma’s distinguished military career, describing him as a courageous soldier and strategic thinker. He also acknowledged his exploits in the business world, where he made his mark in the transport, oil, and real-estate sectors, as well as his transformational role as a philanthropist.

Mutfwang further celebrated the impact of the TY Danjuma Foundation, noting that its programmes have become lifelines to underserved communities nationwide,particularly women, children, and the elderly.

Speaking on behalf of his family, the Plateau State Government, and the peace-loving people of the state, the governor conveyed warm wishes to the elder statesman on his milestone age, praying for long life, sound health, renewed strength, and divine wisdom as he continues to guide younger generations.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The city of Jos surged into national focus as Plateau State Governor Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang led the opening of the 13th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE),a five-day convergence of Nigeria’s top technology policymakers and innovators.

Hosted at the Crispan Suites and Event Centre, the meeting themed “Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation  : 

Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation” set the tone for a renewed nationwide push toward digital inclusion and economic modernization.

Represented by the Plateau State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, Governor Mutfwang welcomed delegates from across the federation, declaring Plateau State ready to champion a national movement toward a digitally empowered society.

The governor emphasized that inclusive access to technology remains the backbone of modern development. 

He urged stakeholders to “empower communities, unlock opportunities, and ensure every Nigerian has a seat in the digital future,” reaffirming Plateau’s commitment to innovation, startup growth and partnerships with global tech bodies.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Plateau State Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Lamba Peter Bot, expressed delight at hosting the prestigious council. 

He described the gathering as a powerful opportunity for states to unite behind a shared technological destiny.

Bot called on participants to double efforts in bridging the divide between the connected and unconnected, noting that youth empowerment, digital literacy and sustainable innovation must remain at the heart of national planning.

Setting the federal tone, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, stressed that the year’s theme represents an urgent national call.

He highlighted that digital technology now shapes every major sector and must be fully harnessed to drive Nigeria’s economic future. Gagare underscored priorities including  :

Expanding broadband access

Strengthening digital skills

Protecting citizens through sound regulation

Creating an innovation-friendly environment

Positioning Nigeria as a global digital hub

Dr. Datong Dominic Gwanman, Director General of PICTDA, said Plateau is already shifting from manual processes to data-driven systems,starting with full digitalization of school management.

Mr. Abba Guguwa, Permanent Secretary, Kano Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasized establishing robust memos to guide institutional transformation.

Dr. Garba Gandu, Senior Technical Adviser at NERDC, highlighted the urgency of adopting global best practices, enhancing digital skills and boosting competitiveness in the fast-evolving technology era.

To close the session, Engr. Gagare reviewed key memoranda focused on rural telecommunications, data privacy, sustainable digital practices, job creation and mandatory capacity-building,critical steps toward a stronger, more inclusive digital economy.

By Solomon Dalung 

In the early hours of Sunday, 7 December 2025, quiet streets across the Republic of Benin were jolted awake as soldiers led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri stormed the national television station. 

Viewers watched in disbelief as Tigri declared the dissolution of democratic institutions, shut Benin’s land borders, and ordered a complete lockdown of the airspace.

The coup was sudden, bold, and threatening to plunge the sub-region into yet another spiral of instability.

What followed was a dramatic display of Nigeria’s regional power.

 Acting with unprecedented speed, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, authorized a cross-border intervention to halt the putsch.

Within minutes, Nigerian Air Force jets roared across the Benin border.

Within an hour, coordinated aerial strikes reportedly neutralized convoys ferrying coup loyalists.

By sunrise, the coup had been crushed and constitutional order restored.

Nigeria had acted decisively. Tinubu had reaffirmed his country’s historical role as the stabilizing pillar of West Africa.

 Many hailed it as a masterstroke of leadership , a victory not just for Benin, but for democracy in the region.

While the operation drew applause abroad, it ignited an uncomfortable debate within Nigeria.

If the military possesses such precision air power, elite strike capacity, and rapid coordination, why do terrorists and bandits operate with near impunity at home?

How could a nation that executed a flawless cross-border mission in one hour fail to rescue the hundreds of schoolchildren kidnapped in Niger State, or protect communities repeatedly attacked in Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara, Niger, and Borno?

Why was Brigadier General Musa Uba left abandoned in hostile territory for days before ISWAP captured and executed him , without the same urgency that was mobilized for Benin?

These contradictions pierce the national conscience.

Nigeria’s insecurity no longer appears rooted in military weakness but in institutional hesitation or political choices.

A government that can mobilize troops, jets, intelligence and logistics across borders in less than a day cannot convincingly claim helplessness against domestic terrorists.

 The painful impression is that foreign democracy received a faster response than Nigerian lives.

Under international law, when a government appears “unwilling or unable to protect its citizens,” it risks inviting external intervention.

 President Tinubu’s swift rescue of Benin, contrasted with slow reactions to mass killings and kidnappings at home, unfortunately strengthens the argument of foreign voices , including Donald J. Trump , who insist the world may soon need to step in where Nigeria has failed.

While celebrating the restoration of democracy in Benin, Nigerians demand one thing: the same energy applied abroad must now defend citizens at home.

Let the jets that soared over Cotonou soar over Sambisa.

Let the boots that marched for Benin march for Chibok, Kachia, Mangu, Kontagora.

Let the decisiveness shown across the border finally confront the killers, kidnappers, and insurgents ravaging Nigerian communities.

National strength is not proven by foreign victories , it is confirmed by the safety of its own people.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau State Commissioner of Works, Hon. Ubandoma Joshua Laven, has unveiled a chronology of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s massive infrastructural revival across Tarok land and Plateau State, declaring that the governor has delivered “enough Christmas for the people.”

He revealed this during an interview with journalists at the Tarok Progressive Youth Association (TPYA) Maiden 2025 Christmas Carol Celebration held 7th December 2025 at the Millennium International Event Centre, Dokat-Bali Way, Jos.

Hon. Laven said the carol offered the perfect platform to enlighten Tarok youths,many of whom do not return home to Langtang for Christmas,on the achievements of the Mutfwang administration.

“This carol gives our youths a sense of belonging. It shows them how we celebrate Christmas and unites the Tarok Nation under one identity,” he said.

He added that after taking the Ninth Lesson at the event, he seized the opportunity to brief the youths on government activities within their communities.

1. Ghazum–Logmak Road (Long Abandoned, Now Revived)

Hon. Laven said one of the strongest proofs of the administration’s commitment is the Ghazum–Logmak Road, which had been abandoned for eight years.

 “When we came in, it was stalled at the boundary. Today, it is 40–50% completed,” he announced.

2. ₦30bn Langtang Water Project,

He described the ₦30 billion Langtang water  project as one of the biggest components of the governor’s intervention in Tarok land.

 “This is not a small project. It will transform water supply for the entire Langtang axis.”

3. Zamko–Tarbo–Mabudi Road Approved for Construction.

The Commissioner confirmed that Governor Mutfwang has given approval for the construction of the Zamko–Tarbo–Mabudi Road, a key access route connecting communities across Langtang South.

4. Zamko Bridge—A Lifesaving Approval.

He further disclosed that the governor has approved the commencement of the Zamko Bridge, a crossing where many Tarok youth and elders have previously lost their lives.

“This bridge is not just a project, it’s a rescue mission. It will save lives.”

5. 21–22 Completed Road Designs Ready for Flag-Off.

“These projects are ready. Once His Excellency has time, the flag-offs will begin immediately.”

6. 23 New Road Connections for All LGAs

In addition to the concluded designs, the Commissioner confirmed that 23 roads connecting local government headquarters to Jos are set for takeoff.

“Connectivity has returned to Plateau. Every local government will feel the impact.”

7. Street Lighting  : ‘Darkness Eliminated in Plateau’.

He praised the rapid lighting works across Jos, describing them as early signs of the governor’s urban renewal.

“Darkness in Plateau has been eliminated. Streets are bright again,and more lights are coming before Christmas.”

Hon. Laven condemned the spreading of misinformation on social media, noting that some youths recently claimed no single project existed in Tarok land.

“Even a layman can see what we are doing. The facts are there on the ground.”

The Commissioner urged the Tarok people to use the Yuletide to foster unity, peace, and love.

 “Christmas is a season that cannot hide. It signifies the birth of a great man. Let us unite, love one another, and forget our differences.”

He emphasized that the Tarok Nation’s strength lies in their shared language and identity.

“We speak one language and  one indivisible tribe. That unity should be our advantage, not a division.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Tarok Nation made history on Sunday 7th December 2025, as thousands gathered at the Millennium International Event Centre along Domkat Bali Way, Jos, for the maiden edition of the Tarok Progressive Youth Association (TPYA) Christmas Carol, a first-of-its-kind celebration held outside Tarok land.

 The event, bursting with music, culture, and prayer, drew prominent Tarok leaders, politicians, clerics, technocrats, and youths who described it as historic, unifying, spiritually significant, and a bold declaration of Tarok identity on the Plateau.

The carol featured performances, scripture readings, and cultural presentations delivered in Tarok language,an experience many attendees described as “long overdue.”

The evening opened with reflections from Evangelist Kwamkur Samuel, who underscored the spiritual meaning of Christmas, describing the birth of Christ as God’s universal gift of peace.

“The coming of Jesus Christ is a pathway to peace,not just peace in the world, but peace within an individual,” he said.

“John 3:16 says God so loved the world. It didn’t say God loved only Christians.”

He noted that Tarok land played a historic role in Plateau’s Christian heritage, as one of the first points where missionaries arrived.

On criticisms that the event should have been held exclusively in Lantang, he dismissed location as irrelevant   :

 “The Tarok man is not a local person; he is international. Whether in Jos, Abuja, or London, celebrating Christ and our culture is our right.”

Next, Hon. Mdam Timchang Alfred, PDP State Organizing Secretary and a proud Tarok son, described the maiden carol as a milestone that demonstrates Tarok unity.

“As a people, we have shown today that we can come together to worship and praise God irrespective of differences,” he said.

He applauded TPYA for its vibrant leadership and its numerous initiatives promoting unity and development.

“Hosting it in Jos is deliberate. We want to showcase Tarok identity to other tribes and non-indigenes in the state capital. It does not negate our roots,we can still celebrate at home.”

The Plateau State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Joyce Ramnap, expressed deep satisfaction with the turnout, quoting scripture to highlight the beauty of unity.

 “How good and pleasant it is when brethren come together. Whether in Jos, abroad, or at home, we celebrate our Tarok identity and the birth of Christ,” she said.

“Our strength lies in our unity. Tarok youths are gifted and talented,let us maximize the opportunities God has given us to take Tarok land to greater heights.”

Vincent Simdul, another notable attendee, called for peace and sustained unity within the Tarok nation.

“Peace is not a one-way street; it must be continuous. We must all contribute to sustaining it,” he said.

“I saw comments on Facebook, but there’s nothing wrong with celebrating in Jos. We can celebrate at home too. Tarok must not limit itself.”

In what could be described as the emotional high point of the evening, Ambassador Miri Timnan Nyangtau, President of TPYA, said the event was not just a celebration but a deliberate act of nation-building.

“To others this may be special, but to me it is normal. It is the duty of the youth to bring ideas that promote unity and development,we are the strength of the Tarok nation.”

He expressed surprise and gratitude at the massive turnout  :

 “I didn’t expect this number, but I believed in our unity. Our people came out in their numbers.”

“By God’s grace, it will be a yearly event,one in Jos and one at home in Tarok land.”

He urged Tarok people to drop political and clannish sentiments  :

 “Christmas teaches togetherness. Let us unite for the progress of Tarok Nation.”

Rounding off the interviews, Engr. Ponzing Gamde, General Manager of Plateau Energy Services Corporation, emphasized that Jos is a shared home for all Plateau ethnic groups,including the Tarok.

“Jos is the capital of Plateau State and belongs to all. There is no barrier to Tarok people celebrating and worshipping God here.”

 “When we worship in our tongue, we honor God. Language is God’s gift. Using our Tarok tongue to praise Him is a thing of pride.”

 “Christmas came through God’s love. I urge the Tarok people to accept the gift of Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life.”

The maiden TPYA Christmas Carol ended with joy, hymns, and a renewed sense of togetherness.

Attendees described it as   :

a spiritual revival,

a cultural showcase,

a unifying bridge between home and diaspora, and

a new chapter in Tarok youth leadership.

The event’s success has sparked excitement ahead of next year’s edition, which TPYA says will hold both in Jos and Tarok land.

By,giwa alex,jos

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Sunday, December 7th, 2025, electrified worshippers at the 2025 Adults’ Harvest Thanksgiving of All Saints’ Military Church (PROT), Mogadishu Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja, with a stirring call for Christians to “return to the source of their strength.”

Arriving at the historic military chapel, Governor Mutfwang joined senior military leaders and congregants in a service he described as “a moment to reconnect with heaven.”

Delivering a sermon titled “Harvest of Divine Connection,” he declared that the core of true Thanksgiving must remain anchored in Christ alone.

“Anything we claim to know about God that is not anchored in Christ will eventually mislead us,” the Governor warned, stressing that wisdom, clarity, and healing flow solely from God.

Governor Mutfwang expressed deep gratitude for the privilege of ministering from the pulpit, noting that worshipping with God’s people,regardless of location, has always been one of his greatest joys.

He reminded worshippers that Thanksgiving is not an annual ritual but “a continuous posture of the heart for anyone who truly understands the depth of God’s mercy.”

Citing Apostle Paul’s admonition in Colossians 2:1–7, the Governor urged believers to remain rooted, strengthened, and established in Christ.

He emphasized that salvation is a personal and intentional decision,not inherited, assumed, or replaced by religious activities.

“It is your responsibility and mine to ensure that we have truly received Him,” he told the congregation.

Explaining that the Christian journey is a gradual walk and not a leap, Governor Mutfwang compared spiritual maturity to the growth of a towering tree.

“Every tall tree stands because of its roots,” he said, encouraging worshippers to deepen their foundation in Christ to withstand life’s storms.

Concluding his message, the Governor prayed for a supernatural turning point in the lives of worshippers   :

“May heaven interrupt someone’s journey for good today and redirect their steps toward purpose.”

By, giwa alex (Gnews)

Nigeria on Sunday 7th December 2025  raised the alarm over a dramatic attempted military takeover in the Benin Republic, warning that the wave of coups sweeping across Africa’s neighbourhood is fast becoming a direct security threat to its borders.

In an urgent statement, Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa condemned the attempted overthrow of President Patrice Talon, describing the incident as “a direct assault on democracy and a dangerous escalation around Nigeria’s frontiers.”

Nigeria praised the swift, forceful response of Beninese security forces, who rapidly crushed the rebellion announced by a shadowy group calling itself the “Military Committee for Refoundation.”

Gunfire was reported near Camp Guezo, not far from the presidential residence, prompting panic and lockdown warnings from the French embassy.

But for Abuja, the failed coup signals something deeper ,a tightening ring of military regimes around Nigeria, threatening regional stability, trade, and joint security operations.

1. Burkina Faso – Military takeover (2022)

2. Guinea-Bissau – Attempted coup episodes (2022–2023)

3. Madagascar – Attempted coup tensions (2023)

4. Niger Republic – Military takeover (2023)

5. Benin Republic – Attempted coup (December 2025)

Nigeria, a leading ECOWAS voice, warned that coups now represent a regional contagion, eroding hard-won democratic gains and emboldening anti-constitutional actors across West Africa.

“Unconstitutional changes of government are now a severe threat to peace and democratic stability across our shared borders,” the ministry said, urging African Union and ECOWAS partners to respond as a unified front.

Abuja also appealed for calm within Benin, stressing that political grievances must be handled through lawful, constitutional, and peaceful channels, not through the barrel of a gun.

President Talon, who has ruled since 2016, remains secure and is expected to step down in April 2026 at the end of his second and final term.

For Nigeria, the failed coup is more than a neighbour’s crisis , it is a warning sign that the storm of coups gripping Africa is edging dangerously close to home.

By, giwa alex , Jos

A fresh political storm has erupted within the Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the Concerned Plateau APC Legacy Members have issued a blistering rebuttal to a commentary by political writer Shabul Mazadu, accusing him of distortion, mischief and deliberate misrepresentation.

The drama began on Friday, December 5th, 2025, when the Concerned Plateau APC Legacy Members addressed journalists at the NUJ Press Centre, Jos, declaring that blocking Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s alleged move to join the APC would harm the party’s long-term interests.

The group insisted that accepting Mutfwang could be the party’s biggest political masterstroke ahead of future elections.

In what observers now describe as a miscalculated response, Shabul Mazadu published a counter-piece criticizing the group.

However, the Legacy Members say Mazadu “shot himself in the foot” by falsely branding them the “APC Legacy Group,” a name they insist they have never used.

According to them, Mazadu displayed “a shallow attempt to challenge facts he did not even understand.”

The group emphasized that their political roots in the APC are solid and uncontested, stressing that Mazadu’s only point of disagreement was based on a fiction he invented.

They noted that Mazadu failed to counter any of the substantive issues raised during their press conference.

While distancing themselves from speaking for Governor Mutfwang, the group reminded Mazadu of the political damage inflicted on APC during Governor Simon Lalong’s tenure.

They cited controversial comments made by Lalong, including  :

“Farmers also carry weapons.”

“Even Plateau Government House was built on cattle routes.”

According to them, these statements deeply offended Plateau voters and contributed to the APC’s electoral collapse in 2023, despite holding incumbency power.

In a direct challenge to Mazadu, the Legacy Members asked   :

“Is there any APC heavyweight in Plateau today , including the National Chairman , who can leave the party with the same number of followers Mutfwang can bring in if he defects to APC?”

They described this as the real political question Mazadu is afraid to confront.

The group acknowledged that Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda is currently the most prized asset of the Plateau APC due to his rising political stature.

But they reminded the public that before Nentawe joined politics in 2021, the APC was already the ruling party , and still managed to crumble disastrously in 2023.

The statement concluded that the APC must accept Mutfwang if the party is serious about reclaiming Plateau.

The rebuttal conspicuously signed by Emmanuel Dankasa the convener, Concerned Plateau APC Legacy Member dated 7th December 2025 and made available to “Gnews” concluded with what they describe as  “cult-like followership and deep grassroots connection,” they warn that sidelining him could be politically suicidal.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau Youth Council (PYC), Jos North Chapter, on Saturday 6th December 2025 held its Peace and Unity Cultural Day, an event that attracted key stakeholders including representatives of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Chairman of Jos North Local Government, J. K. Chris, and the Chairman of the Occasion, High Chief Nwosu Nadozie.

The event, held in St John’s College opposite Polo field Jos, was declared open by the PYC Jos North Chairman, Ambassador Paul Mancha, who delivered a stirring welcome address that set the tone for the ceremony. 

Mancha emphasized that the program was founded on the youth’s collective resolve to end violence, rebuild trust, and reaffirm Jos North as a model of peaceful coexistence.

Speaking passionately, Amb. Mancha said the Council’s priority was two fold  : 

promoting peace and unity and empowering young people for self-reliance. He recalled decades of crises that eroded Plateau’s long-standing reputation for hospitality and explained that the youth had now resolved to say “enough is enough” to being used as tools of violence.

He announced ongoing youth engagements, empowerment programs, cultural collaborations, and plans for a Youth Centre that would serve as a hub for interaction among all ethnic and religious groups in the LGA.

Representing Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Musa Ashoms, conveyed the Governor’s goodwill and reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering support for initiatives that foster unity.

Ashoms described the cultural day as “a noble project,” praising the PYC for demonstrating responsible youth leadership. 

He said no development could thrive without peace, adding that Jos North,“a miniature Nigeria”,must continue to champion harmony.

He assured the youths that the Mutfwang administration, known for its talk-and-do approach, remains committed to empowering young people and supporting community-based peace efforts.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Jos North LGA, J. K. Chris, commended the youths for following the path of unity. 

He applauded Governor Mutfwang’s deliberate investment in the next generation and highlighted the council’s commitment to inclusiveness, noting that Jos North’s cabinet reflects Nigeria’s broad cultural diversity.

He praised the PYC for emulating the unity-driven ideology he promotes as their patron, including the adoption of the three-tribe cultural cap design.

 The chairman announced a donation of ₦1 million to support the program and assured residents that the council would continue safeguarding the peace enjoyed since his assumption of office.

The Chairman of the Occasion, High Chief Nwosu Nadozie, lauded the initiative, noting that the cultural day reinforces communal bonds at a time when unity is most needed.

 He urged residents to embrace the spirit of tolerance and cooperation demonstrated by the event.

Representatives of traditional rulers, including the Ujah of Anaguta, HRM Johnson Jauro Magaji, also gave goodwill messages.

 The royal father emphasized that peace was indispensable as the festive season approaches, stressing that no meaningful development could occur without stability.

The ceremony featured cultural presentations, speeches from legislators and stakeholders, and the unveiling of a symbolic identity mark representing the three indigenous ethnic groups of Jos North,Berom, Afizere, and Anaguta,while acknowledging the cosmopolitan nature of the LGA.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has congratulated Chief Samu’ila Danko Makama on his recognition as the Model of Commitment to the Ideals of the Consortium of Retired Federal Permanent Secretaries (CORFEPS).

The message, conveyed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere, described Chief Makama as a seasoned technocrat and towering intellectual whose contributions to Nigeria’s public sector span decades.

According to Bere, Governor Mutfwang noted that Chief Makama, who once served as Nigeria’s Governor at the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment to sound policy formulation,initiatives that strengthened national governance and contributed significantly to development efforts.

The Governor commended CORFEPS for selecting Chief Makama for the honour, saying the recognition was well-deserved given his moral strength, exemplary service, and unwavering dedication to principles that have shaped public policy and fostered peace, unity and national cohesion.

Governor Mutfwang further highlighted Chief Makama’s leadership attributes, describing him as a man of integrity, humility and deep devotion to the common good—qualities that continue to inspire younger professionals across various sectors.

He extended the heartfelt congratulations of his family, the Government and the people of Plateau State to Chief Makama, praying for God’s continued guidance, good health and renewed strength for him to sustain his legacy of purposeful leadership and mentorship.

By, giwa alex , Jos

A wave of anger is sweeping through Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, as frustrated postgraduate students,mainly from the Faculty of Biological Sciences,have risen to challenge what they describe as chronic, crippling delays in completing their Master’s degree programmes. 

Some students say they have been trapped for as long as eight years, with earlier cohorts dating back more than a decade.

What started as murmurs of dissatisfaction has now transformed into what may become ATBU’s largest student revolt in recent history.

The uprising began after a widely shared petition authored by D.N. Musa (PGS/16-17/1/M), a Biological Sciences postgraduate student, went viral across WhatsApp and Facebook. 

Musa accused the university’s School of Postgraduate Studies of running students through what he sharply termed a “research furnace”,a system where coursework ends swiftly but research supervision becomes painfully slow, inconsistent, or nonexistent.

According to him, the delays have forced students to repeatedly pay registration fees not because they are progressing academically, but simply because supervisors fail to provide timely contact.

 “Don’t say I didn’t warn you. It’s normal to spend 8 years for a Master’s in Biological Sciences at ATBU,” an earlier message accompanying the petition warned.

Some of the grievances reportedly date back to students admitted in PGS/13-14, many of whom remain stuck in their Master’s programmes more than ten years later,periods during which, Musa argues, “functional universities elsewhere would have graduated three sets of PhDs.”

Students describe the experience as emotionally draining, financially exhausting, and academically demoralizing.

As anger grew, students quickly organized and rolled out a bold, three-step strategy aimed at forcing the university to take responsibility  :

1. A protest march to the Vice Chancellor’s office to formally table their grievances.

2. Legal action should the administration fail to respond.

3. Far-reaching reforms, including  :

Suspension of new admissions until all pending students graduate.

Strict enforcement of the standard two-year Master’s duration.

Freedom for students to change unresponsive supervisors.

Payment of fees only during periods of active supervision.

Automatic graduation for students who have completed coursework and research.

They also called on Nigerian universities to adopt an international-style dual-track Master’s system (Taught vs Research) to prevent similar crises.

The petition did not mince words. Musa accused ATBU of indulging in “academic arm banditry,” citing poor supervision culture, outright neglect, and crushing bureaucratic delays.

He warned that prolonged postgraduate training does not translate to enhanced scholarship  :

“A Master’s degree was designed for two years because it is achievable. What is happening now derails academic purpose.”

Organizers insist that the movement is not about causing chaos but about protecting academic integrity and the future of postgraduate education in Nigeria.

They are urging every delayed student,across all departments,to stand together, arguing that the problem is systemic, not isolated.

As the petition continues to spread across social media and academic platforms, pressure is now mounting on ATBU’s management to address what many are calling a decade-long postgraduate crisis.

If the administration fails to act swiftly, the situation could escalate into one of the most significant student protests ATBU has ever witnessed.

—————Say Blocking A Sitting Governor Is “Madness Taken Too Far,” Warn Party Risks 2027 Failure.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Concerned Plateau APC Legacy Members ,pioneer foot soldiers who built the APC brick-by-brick since 2013,have raised the alarm over what they describe as a “shameful, reckless, and politically suicidal campaign” by some faceless actors attempting to block Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang from joining the APC.

Addressing the press in Jos, the group said it was astonished and embarrassed by the spate of street protests and sponsored press conferences allegedly carried out by impostors claiming to represent genuine APC members.

According to the group, these protesters “lack legitimacy, lack party history, and clearly lack manners,” insisting that no true APC pioneer would oppose the entry of a sitting governor,especially one from the home state of the APC National Chairman.

“Blocking A Governor From Joining APC Is Political Madness” , Legacy Members

The group described the actions of the anti-Mutfwang protesters as “puerile, hypocritical, and the worst form of anti-party sabotage.”

They questioned the logic behind spending hundreds of millions of naira nationwide to welcome defectors, only for some elements in Plateau to suddenly claim that Governor Mutfwang is “not welcome.”

“This is political madness taken too far. Since when did APC start chasing away sitting governors?”

“Whoever is sponsoring this nonsense is not working for the party—he is working for his pocket.”

“Governor Mutfwang Would Be APC’s Biggest Catch Since 2013”

The Legacy Members revealed that even Mutfwang’s fiercest critics know that his entry into the APC would be the biggest political harvest the party has made in Plateau since its creation.

They warned that some individuals are deceiving themselves by assuming President Tinubu’s rising popularity in Plateau automatically guarantees the APC a 2027 victory,even against an incumbent governor.

 “Whoever believes APC can defeat an incumbent governor without additional political strength is either naïve or self-serving.”

The group stressed that a sitting governor brings structure, delegates, appointees, grassroots loyalty, and political machinery,assets no serious political party rejects.

Is Someone Afraid of Losing Relevance? ‘Yes,’ Says the Group.

The statement noted that those opposing the governor’s defection are likely individuals who enjoy the current political vacuum and fear being rendered irrelevant if the governor enters the party.

 “They know Governor Mutfwang’s entry will end their small-god politics.”

Plateau Has Always Prospered When Aligned With the Centre , Group Warns Against ‘Second Republic Mistakes’

The group reminded Plateau citizens that from 1999 to date, the state has benefitted massively whenever aligned with the ruling party at the centre.

Under President Tinubu alone, Plateau has secured   :

Chief Executive of the North Central Development Commission.

APC National Chairmanship.

Federal Minister of Humanitarian Affairs.

Two ambassadorial appointments.

Orthopedic Centre.

Federal University of Education.

NOUN centre in Wase.

Federal Polytechnic, Shendam.

They warned that Plateau should not return to the era when political misalignment denied the state key federal projects.

The group dismissed claims that Governor Mutfwang’s pre-election statements should bar him from joining APC, citing the case of Daniel Bwala, who was welcomed by the Tinubu administration despite criticizing the party during the 2023 campaigns.

 “This is Renewed Hope politics. Mature politics. Inclusive politics. Only shallow minds keep old political grudges.”

The Legacy Members condemned the demands that Mutfwang must reinstate the sacked tertiary institution workers before he is allowed into the APC.

 “Were those workers Plateau citizens or APC members? Governance decisions must not be equated to party membership.”

However, they appealed to the governor to compassionately review the cases and re-engage deserving workers.

The group issued a direct appeal to Governor Mutfwang  :

 “Your entry into the APC will reposition Plateau State and strengthen our place in national politics. The door is open. Ignore the noise.”

They urged the APC national leadership to take swift disciplinary action against those sponsoring what they called a “disgraceful attempt to block political progress.”

By,giwa alex jos

 The Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) on Friday 5th December 2025 dedicated its long-awaited ultra-modern five-storey Guest House , a landmark project that began as a proposal in 2013 and has now risen into one of Plateau State’s most impressive hospitality facilities.

The historic dedication ceremony which took place in Jos the plateau state capital was performed by the COCIN President, Rev. Dr. Amos Mohzo, who declared the edifice a spiritual and strategic asset “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

The journey began in December 2013, when the COCIN Finance Department, led by then Director Mr. Yakubu Duse, submitted a memo recommending the development of a befitting guest facility. 

The Board of Finance adopted the proposal, and by 2014, the Executive Council forwarded it to the General Church Council, signaling a major shift in the church’s infrastructural vision.

The aim was clear  : to enhance mission work, strengthen resource management, and improve hospitality services to both members and the wider community.

In March 2015, the Executive Council inaugurated a Building Committee to transform the concept into a full project.

Members included :

Dr. Stephen Yusei – Chairman

Mr. Yakubu Duse – Secretary

Arch. Benjamin Bot – Member

Arch. Dongut Zitta – Member

Their mandate was to provide technical guidance, supervise the project, negotiate with contractors, ensure quality, and maintain communication with church leadership.

A 50-car parking space

A multifunctional ground floor with 200–250 seat hall

Internet café, restaurant, kitchen, offices & shops

99 luxury suites.

A VIP penthouse with four premium living rooms

Cost estimates were later prepared in two phases  :

₦557 million (direct labour, excluding furnishing.

₦3.459 billion (contract-based, excluding furnishing)

The church adopted the direct labour approach, citing better cost control and quality management.

In April 2022, the committee was restructured and renamed the Headquarters Building and Maintenance Committee, chaired by the late Engr. Sonde Hyatt, to strengthen technical oversight.

Other members included  : Dr. Hirse, Dr. Aaron Damak, Engr. Sonde Kwaja, Barr. Iliya Shandim, Arch. Joseph Inuwa and Engr. Ezekiel Dambrin.

They were supported by key staff :

Mr. Philip Zera, Director of Finance

Mr. Yakubu Duse, Project Manager

Mr. Sonde Solomon, Estate Officer

Specialized subcommittees in Buildings, Procurement, and Development were established for faster execution.

Work began on a 4,576.52 sqm plot, with the building designed to meet 21st-century hospitality standards.

From the groundbreaking led by Rev. Mohzo on 6th December 2022 to completion on 5th December 2025, the project took exactly three years.

Guest preacher and Chairman, COCIN Incorporated Trustees, Rev. Prof. Soja Bewarang, delivered a direct, pastoral warning :

 “Let this not be a place for chop-chop. Many church projects die because people turn them into feeding centres. May this one stand for ministry and development.”

He drew lessons from Psalm 118:23 and Hebrews 13:2, calling for unity and responsible stewardship.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by Commissioner for Information Hon. Joyce Ramnap, praised the project as a catalyst for tourism, job creation, and economic growth.

 “This is not just hospitality. It is a contribution to reducing unemployment, boosting our GDP, and raising the profile of Plateau State,” she said.

She commended COCIN for delivering the project within its timeline and urged investors to emulate the church’s efficiency.

Ramnap noted that December has been declared Tourism Month in Plateau State, making the dedication timely and impactful.

The new Guest House is more than a building , it is a monument to the evolution of COCIN as a mission-driven institution.

 It links infrastructure with evangelism and provides a “home away from home” for visitors while promoting Christian hospitality.

As the facility opens its doors, COCIN celebrates a vision fulfilled, a dream realized, and a new chapter in Plateau State’s tourism and hospitality story.

 

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

Civil Society Organizations under the Research and Action for Peace Network (REcAP Network) in partnership with WANEP,Nigeria on Wednesday 3rd December 2025, opened a three-day, high-level workshop in Jalingo, marking the beginning of an intensified push to curb escalating tensions and strengthen peace structures across Taraba State.

The workshop,“Conflict Prevention, Violent Extremism, Crisis Management and Peacebuilding”,drew together a cross-section of critical stakeholders, including civil society leaders, youth groups, women’s organisations, and community influencers. 

Their mission: to agree on actionable strategies capable of reversing the persistent cycle of conflict, farmer-herder clashes, and ethno-religious tension in the state.

Opening the session, Mr. Emmanuel Ami-Okhani of WANEP ,Nigeria underscored the essence of collective responsibility in pushing back against violence. 

He stressed that peace cannot be achieved in isolation,every institution and individual must actively contribute to tolerance, dialogue, and mutual understanding.

Ami-Okhani emphasized Taraba’s strategic role in regional peacebuilding, warning that stability in the state is directly tied to its economic progress and long-term prosperity.

He explained that the ongoing engagement forms part of the European Union-funded REcAP project, implemented across 18 countries, including Nigeria.

According to him, the initiative seeks to  :

Strengthen local capacity to manage crises and prevent conflicts.

Build a sustainable expert network specializing in peacebuilding and countering violent extremism.

Support communities in the Lake Chad Basin and West Africa with tools for mediation and early-warning action.

“For the northeast,” he said, “our focus today is Taraba,equipping its actors with the skills to intervene before conflict erupts.”

Earlier, Boniface Koson, WANEP–Nigeria’s State Coordinator, emphasized that the workshop aims to equip civil society actors, women, and youth groups with the competence to prevent violent extremism and strengthen crisis-management systems.

Participants engaged actively, offering diverse perspectives on addressing the state’s complex conflict triggers.

Notable contributors included  :

Rev. Fr. Odinaka Chukwu,

Mallam Sadiq Muhammad,

Dr. Jennifer Uniga,

Mikin Yonana, State Programme Officer, ACOMIN,

They collectively called for deeper community engagement, early-warning surveillance, and inclusive peace processes that reflect the experiences of the vulnerable.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

Civil Society Organizations under the Research and Action for Peace Network (REcAP Network) in partnership with WANEP,Nigeria on Wednesday 3rd December 2025, opened a three-day, high-level workshop in Jalingo, marking the beginning of an intensified push to curb escalating tensions and strengthen peace structures across Taraba State.

The workshop,“Conflict Prevention, Violent Extremism, Crisis Management and Peacebuilding”,drew together a cross-section of critical stakeholders, including civil society leaders, youth groups, women’s organisations, and community influencers. 

Their mission: to agree on actionable strategies capable of reversing the persistent cycle of conflict, farmer-herder clashes, and ethno-religious tension in the state.

Opening the session, Mr. Emmanuel Ami-Okhani of WANEP ,Nigeria underscored the essence of collective responsibility in pushing back against violence. 

He stressed that peace cannot be achieved in isolation,every institution and individual must actively contribute to tolerance, dialogue, and mutual understanding.

Ami-Okhani emphasized Taraba’s strategic role in regional peacebuilding, warning that stability in the state is directly tied to its economic progress and long-term prosperity.

He explained that the ongoing engagement forms part of the European Union-funded REcAP project, implemented across 18 countries, including Nigeria.

According to him, the initiative seeks to  :

Strengthen local capacity to manage crises and prevent conflicts.

Build a sustainable expert network specializing in peacebuilding and countering violent extremism.

Support communities in the Lake Chad Basin and West Africa with tools for mediation and early-warning action.

“For the northeast,” he said, “our focus today is Taraba,equipping its actors with the skills to intervene before conflict erupts.”

Earlier, Boniface Koson, WANEP–Nigeria’s State Coordinator, emphasized that the workshop aims to equip civil society actors, women, and youth groups with the competence to prevent violent extremism and strengthen crisis-management systems.

Participants engaged actively, offering diverse perspectives on addressing the state’s complex conflict triggers.

Notable contributors included  :

Rev. Fr. Odinaka Chukwu,

Mallam Sadiq Muhammad,

Dr. Jennifer Uniga,

Mikin Yonana, State Programme Officer, ACOMIN,

They collectively called for deeper community engagement, early-warning surveillance, and inclusive peace processes that reflect the experiences of the vulnerable.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

Civil Society Organizations under the Research and Action for Peace Network (REcAP Network) in partnership with WANEP,Nigeria on Wednesday 3rd December 2025, opened a three-day, high-level workshop in Jalingo, marking the beginning of an intensified push to curb escalating tensions and strengthen peace structures across Taraba State.

The workshop,“Conflict Prevention, Violent Extremism, Crisis Management and Peacebuilding”,drew together a cross-section of critical stakeholders, including civil society leaders, youth groups, women’s organisations, and community influencers. 

Their mission: to agree on actionable strategies capable of reversing the persistent cycle of conflict, farmer-herder clashes, and ethno-religious tension in the state.

Opening the session, Mr. Emmanuel Ami-Okhani of WANEP ,Nigeria underscored the essence of collective responsibility in pushing back against violence. 

He stressed that peace cannot be achieved in isolation,every institution and individual must actively contribute to tolerance, dialogue, and mutual understanding.

Ami-Okhani emphasized Taraba’s strategic role in regional peacebuilding, warning that stability in the state is directly tied to its economic progress and long-term prosperity.

He explained that the ongoing engagement forms part of the European Union-funded REcAP project, implemented across 18 countries, including Nigeria.

According to him, the initiative seeks to  :

Strengthen local capacity to manage crises and prevent conflicts.

Build a sustainable expert network specializing in peacebuilding and countering violent extremism.

Support communities in the Lake Chad Basin and West Africa with tools for mediation and early-warning action.

“For the northeast,” he said, “our focus today is Taraba,equipping its actors with the skills to intervene before conflict erupts.”

Earlier, Boniface Koson, WANEP–Nigeria’s State Coordinator, emphasized that the workshop aims to equip civil society actors, women, and youth groups with the competence to prevent violent extremism and strengthen crisis-management systems.

Participants engaged actively, offering diverse perspectives on addressing the state’s complex conflict triggers.

Notable contributors included  :

Rev. Fr. Odinaka Chukwu,

Mallam Sadiq Muhammad,

Dr. Jennifer Uniga,

Mikin Yonana, State Programme Officer, ACOMIN,

They collectively called for deeper community engagement, early-warning surveillance, and inclusive peace processes that reflect the experiences of the vulnerable.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

Civil Society Organizations under the Research and Action for Peace Network (REcAP Network) in partnership with WANEP,Nigeria on Wednesday 3rd December 2025, opened a three-day, high-level workshop in Jalingo, marking the beginning of an intensified push to curb escalating tensions and strengthen peace structures across Taraba State.

The workshop,“Conflict Prevention, Violent Extremism, Crisis Management and Peacebuilding”,drew together a cross-section of critical stakeholders, including civil society leaders, youth groups, women’s organisations, and community influencers. 

Their mission: to agree on actionable strategies capable of reversing the persistent cycle of conflict, farmer-herder clashes, and ethno-religious tension in the state.

Opening the session, Mr. Emmanuel Ami-Okhani of WANEP ,Nigeria underscored the essence of collective responsibility in pushing back against violence. 

He stressed that peace cannot be achieved in isolation,every institution and individual must actively contribute to tolerance, dialogue, and mutual understanding.

Ami-Okhani emphasized Taraba’s strategic role in regional peacebuilding, warning that stability in the state is directly tied to its economic progress and long-term prosperity.

He explained that the ongoing engagement forms part of the European Union-funded REcAP project, implemented across 18 countries, including Nigeria.

According to him, the initiative seeks to  :

Strengthen local capacity to manage crises and prevent conflicts.

Build a sustainable expert network specializing in peacebuilding and countering violent extremism.

Support communities in the Lake Chad Basin and West Africa with tools for mediation and early-warning action.

“For the northeast,” he said, “our focus today is Taraba,equipping its actors with the skills to intervene before conflict erupts.”

Earlier, Boniface Koson, WANEP–Nigeria’s State Coordinator, emphasized that the workshop aims to equip civil society actors, women, and youth groups with the competence to prevent violent extremism and strengthen crisis-management systems.

Participants engaged actively, offering diverse perspectives on addressing the state’s complex conflict triggers.

Notable contributors included  :

Rev. Fr. Odinaka Chukwu,

Mallam Sadiq Muhammad,

Dr. Jennifer Uniga,

Mikin Yonana, State Programme Officer, ACOMIN,

They collectively called for deeper community engagement, early-warning surveillance, and inclusive peace processes that reflect the experiences of the vulnerable.

By,giwa alex, Jos

In what many party faithful described as a political ignition ahead of 2027, the City Boy Movement on Thursday 4th December 2025 stormed Jos for the formal inauguration of its Plateau State coordinators,setting the tone for renewed grassroots mobilization across the state.

The event, held at Crest Hotel, attracted key political stakeholders including the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, party stalwarts, and senior officials of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

State Director of the City Boy Movement, Hon. David Daser, electrified the hall as he declared the inauguration the opening chapter of a broader strategy, revealing that a massive empowerment event tagged “The Banga” will hold in January.

Daser emphasized that the January 2026 showpiece would feature top national figures including National Coordinator Hon. Francis Saga and Mr. Tinubu’s designated representative.

Speaking with passion, Daser reeled out the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a courageous reformer who took the boldest economic decisions since 1999.

According to him, Tinubu’s administration has  :

Redirected billions through subsidy removal,

Unified exchange rates for transparency,

Empowered millions via the Renewed Hope Cash Transfer,

Relaunched national rail and road projects,

Opened the power sector for state participation,

Boosted agriculture through the National Growth Scheme,

Repositioned Nigeria globally,

And initiated the laying of 90,000 km of fiber optic cables,more than double what Nigeria has ever installed.

“Renewed Hope is not a slogan; it is a reality we see unfolding every day,” he declared.

Daser outlined the core responsibilities of the newly appointed coordinators, stressing that the movement is not parallel to the APC but a grassroots engine designed to strengthen the party’s structure at the polling unit, ward, and LGA levels.

He charged the coordinators to :

Mobilize intelligently and peacefully,

Educate communities on government policies,

Counter misinformation,

Promote unity,

And avoid politics of conflict.

“Politics is persuasion,not war,” he warned.

The APC State Chairman set the hall roaring as he officially inaugurated the coordinators.

With clarity and firmness, he declared   :

“With the powers vested in me as Chairman of APC Plateau State, I pronounce you inaugurated. In APC, failure is not in our dictionary.”

He urged members to uphold party discipline, insisting that personal conflicts must never be brought into the party structure.

Anyone planning to sabotage APC from within, he warned, risks being “Natachaed”a phrase that sparked laughter and applause across the hall.

Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nanlong Daniel, delivered a goodwill message applauding the movement’s vision.

He reminded members that leadership begins with small responsibilities, urging coordinators to prove their worth.

Referring to earlier media questions about Tinubu’s standing in Plateau, the Speaker said   :

“I did not make a mistake when I said Plateau is unanimous about 2027. Today has confirmed it.”

He reinforced the call for politics without bitterness, saying APC must embrace tolerance, unity, and accommodation.

The event also featured special recognition of contributors including  :

Professor Nentawe Yilwatda,

The national leadership of the City Boy Movement,

The Pastor Ruben Initiative from the South-South,

Former House of Representatives member Hon. Suleman Kwande

Plateau City Boy Coordinator Hon. Peter Zaki and his team.

Their support, Daser noted, made the Plateau inauguration possible.

Speeches at the event repeatedly emphasized unity within the APC and the need to avoid factionalism.

Daser closed with a stirring pledge  :

“Together, we will build a stronger Plateau. Together we will deepen Renewed Hope. And together, we will make Nigeria greater.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

A series of budget defence sessions at the Plateau State House of Assembly has thrown fresh light on the priorities of key Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as they took turns to justify their allocations in the proposed 2026 Appropriation Bill. 

From revenue reforms to water expansion and pension overhaul, agencies presented ambitious plans aimed at reshaping citizens’ welfare in the coming fiscal year.

Opening the trail of budget engagements, Permanent Secretary, Policy, Cabinet and Special Services, Timothy Gayi, described the 2026 budget defence as smooth, despite what he termed “reconcilable issues” encountered in the process.

Gayi said the budget remains “people-oriented”, stressing that Plateau citizens should expect a stronger performance than the previous year.

Addressing concerns over Plateau’s rising financial obligations, he acknowledged the challenges in revenue generation but assured that the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS) is intensifying efforts to improve internally generated revenue without overburdening MDAs that render social services.

Next before the Committee was Engr. Godfrey Nuhu Dashuhar, General Manager of the Plateau Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (PRUWASSA), who delivered a major reassurance on rural water expansion.

Dashuhar announced that unlike the 2025 budget,which made no provision for new boreholes,the 2026 budget includes additional boreholes to be deployed across rural communities.

He disclosed that  :

Each rural borehole serves about 250 people,

With 50 new boreholes, an estimated 12,500 rural dwellers will gain access to safe water.

He hailed this as a “clear gain for rural Plateau”, explaining that the upgrade would significantly increase water supply coverage in underserved communities.

The General Manager of PLAMWASSA, Dr. Dakat  Jacob, followed with an aggressive plan to revive non-functional municipal water schemes.

Jacob noted that the World Bank,supported interventions currently cover five LGAs,Wase, Langtang North, Jos South, Mangu and Bokkos,but said the agency will expand to more LGAs in 2026.

His priority areas include   :

Rehabilitation of all dormant water facilities

Conversion of diesel/petrol-powered water schemes to solar

Restoration of broken municipal systems crippled by high fuel costs.

He emphasized that Solarisation is now the only sustainable way forward, adding that many water facilities collapsed solely because the cost of diesel made operations practically impossible.

The final presentation came from Barr. Mrs. Rauta Daok, Chairperson of the Plateau State Pension Board, who announced sweeping administrative reforms targeted at ending delays and manual bottlenecks.

Daok revealed that the 2026 budget includes critical provisions for   :

A biometric capture system for retirees,

Digital verification (“proof of life”) to eliminate fraud,

Faster access to pension records without days of file searching,

Completion of outstanding 2011 gratuity payments and

Continued settlement of 2023 retirees, including those from August and September.

She commended the sustained monthly releases approved by the Governor, saying  :

“Since His Excellency approved the payments, there has not been a single month without releases.”

Daok expressed confidence that improved government revenues in 2026 would allow the Board to “clear more pensioners every month”.

From policy direction to water infrastructure and pension reform, the MDAs assured lawmakers that the 2026 budget,one of the largest ever proposed by Plateau State,is crafted to deliver bolder outcomes, wider service coverage and better accountability.

As the Assembly moves toward final approval, citizens have been told to anticipate measurable improvements across key sectors that directly impact daily life.

————-Patriotic Movement Storms Assembly, Declares Hon. Joseph Gokum “Unstoppable Candidate For 2027” After Record-Breaking Achievements.

By, giwa alex, Jos

In a dramatic show of political force and public confidence, the Patriotic Group  in Kanke LG, Amperi Zone on Wednesday 3rd December 2025 besieged the Plateau State House of Assembly and thunderously endorsed Hon. Joseph Gokum, Member representing Kanke Constituency and current Majority Leader, as their sole choice for 2027.

The crowd, chanting solidarity songs, declared that Kanke has never witnessed such transformative leadership in its political history.

“We Have Never Had It This Good” , Constituents Declare as They Adopt Gokum for 2027

Addressing journalists shortly after the adoption, Hon. Gokum expressed surprise at what he described as an overwhelming and unexpected show of solidarity.

 “They told me they are happy with what I’m doing. We discussed the future, and I reaffirmed my commitment to continue representing them beyond 2027. 

I didn’t expect an endorsement,but they unanimously adopted me for a second term,” he said.

The lawmaker emphasized that his achievements within just two years are a product of divine grace, commitment, and partnership with government and development agencies.

Assumed office as Floor Member of the Plateau State House of Assembly.

Launched immediate community engagement programs.

Began facilitation of early constituency-based interventions.

Elevated to Deputy Majority Leader.

Introduced youth and women empowerment schemes.

Kick-started educational support programs, including scholarships and school material distribution.

Initiated first round of health outreach projects.

Facilitated road construction and rehabilitation works across Kanke.

Linked communities to government and NGO-driven development initiatives.

Supported strategic agricultural interventions to boost local farming.

Became Majority Leader, barely two years after entering the House.

Expanded empowerment programs to reach a wider segment of the constituency.

Strengthened partnership with intergovernmental bodies for rural development and

oversaw additional investments in education, health, roads, and social welfare

Hon. Titus, leader of the delegation, said the endorsement was mandatory, not optional, given the lawmaker’s unmatched performance.

“Going by our history, Kanke has never had a representative who has delivered this much in less than three years. 

He has touched every sector,education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and empowerment. We came to appreciate him and declare him our candidate for 2027,” he stated.

He explained that the Patriotic Movement , comprising concerned indigenous citizens dedicated to the progress of Kanke Local Government.

The atmosphere at the Assembly complex made one thing unmistakably clear,

Hon. Joseph Gokum is not just popular; he is the new political phenomenon in Kanke.

With his endorsement sealed, the constituents have set the stage for what they call “a continuation of unprecedented leadership beyond 2027.”

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Director General of the Plateau State Microfinance, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (PLASMIDA), Dokat Wuyep, has assured Plateau citizens that the agency’s 2026 budget will usher in a new wave of poverty reduction and job creation across the state.

Speaking with journalists shortly after defending the agency’s budget before the Plateau State House of Assembly, Wuyep recalled that PLASMEDA was established with a clear mandate  :

 to tackle poverty and generate employment.

He expressed confidence that the newly submitted,and expectedly approved,budget would significantly strengthen the agency’s interventions.

“We are hoping that in the new year, the budget we have submitted and believe has been approved will go a long way in reducing poverty and providing the needed employment here on the Plateau,” he said.

Wuyep emphasized that the agency operates under a seven-pillar policy thrust, with education and human capacity development being a major cornerstone. 

He noted that improving the skills and competence of Plateau citizens remains central to the agency’s mission.

 “We are committed to building the right capacity for our people here on the Plateau,” he added.

According to the DG, deliberations with lawmakers during the budget defence were smooth and productive.

 “Everything went well. We agreed on certain terms, and we are hopeful that the coming year will be very good for our people,” he disclosed.

 Bonkat Wuyep, speaking on behalf of the PLASMIDA leadership, affirmed the agency’s optimism and readiness to deliver on its mandate in 2026.

By, giwa alex, Jos

In a dramatic budget session that stirred intense discussion and raised fresh questions about the future of education in the state, the Ministry of Education has revealed bold proposals,alongside startling admissions about the system’s financial struggles and staffing challenges.

Revenue Shock  : “Education Is a Service, Not a Cash Machine”

The ministry opened its presentation with a blunt acknowledgment : revenue generation has collapsed.

Officials explained that the ministry relies heavily on fees from new school registrations, but the harsh economic climate of 2025 meant only a handful of new schools were established.

Starting a school, the ministry noted, has become “very, very expensive,” leaving the sector crawling.

Annual licence renewals brought in some income, thanks to intensified visits to non-compliant schools, but not nearly enough to meet expectations.

Despite the shortfall, the ministry assured lawmakers that 2026 will see aggressive efforts ,supported by the House of Assembly,to boost revenue.

The Bold Comeback  : Government Boarding Schools to Return.

In what may become the most transformative education policy in years, the ministry confirmed a proposal to revive government-run boarding schools—a move driven by the alarming rise in out-of-school children.

According to the ministry   :

Many children dropped out because their parents cannot pay fees.

Thousands have been displaced, leaving them with no stable home.

Vulnerable children are increasingly falling into the hands of exploiters and abusers.

The boarding-school revival aims to feed, house, and stabilize these children,offering parents relief and giving displaced families a reliable place for their children’s care.

“If the boarding schools return, these children will have somewhere safe to go,” the ministry stressed.

Teachers’ Revolt  : Rural Posting Crisis Sparks New Incentive Plan

Another explosive revelation came when the ministry addressed a long-ignored issue  :

teachers refusing rural postings.

Officials admitted that teachers posted to rural communities “constantly rush back requesting transfers,” preferring cities with better facilities. This pattern has left rural children at a massive disadvantage.

To end the urban-only teaching culture, the ministry is proposing rural posting allowances,a policy already discussed at the national level with the Federal Ministry of Education.

The plan is simple:

Pay teachers more to stay in rural schools, and rural communities will finally get the quality education they deserve.

Awaiting Green Light  : Government Approval Next

While none of these proposals has been officially approved, the ministry insists it is ready to roll out the plans once the government gives the go-ahead.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

A fresh controversy has erupted over the long-standing compensation awarded to victims of the 2001 military invasion of Zaki-Biam and Kwande, as Tiv traditional rulers and judgment creditors have petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Makurdi, alleging fraudulent diversion of N8 billion by Hon. Eze Nwa of Rhemalaw Chambers.

The petition, signed by the First-Class Chiefs of Ukum, Logo and Katsina-Ala,HRH Chief David Sevav and HRH Chief Ambrose Iyortyer,as well as the First-Class Chief of Kwande, follows years of legal battles beginning with a suit originally filed by the late Anyor Gaadi, now substituted by Peter Orngu and 13 others.

On 19 August 2019, the judgment creditors secured a Garnishee Order Absolute granted by Justice I. E. Ekwo of the Federal High Court, permitting the recovery of N8 billion as part-payment of the total judgment sum of N41.9 billion awarded against the Federal Government for the unlawful 2001 military operation.

According to the petitioners, the funds were expected to be paid into the Federal High Court Litigation Account pending distribution to the affected communities.

However, the Tiv traditional rulers—now represented by Barr. Ben Tilley Adanyi of Chatham Partners, Abuja,accuse Hon. Eze Nwa of  :

Illegally presenting himself to the Debt Management Office (DMO)

Collecting the N8 billion in promissory notes without authorization

Ignoring the court-ordered procedure requiring payment into the litigation account

The petitioners insist that several judgment creditors—specifically the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 11th and 13th,never issued any mandate to Hon. Eze Nwa to act on their behalf. 

They further allege that the signatures in question were forged by the 14th judgment creditor, Mr. Andrew Juntu.

A copy of the authentic mandate letter has reportedly been submitted to the EFCC for verification.

The petitioners claim to have received intelligence suggesting that Hon. Eze Nwa and unnamed collaborators plan to cash out the N8 billion promissory notes and flee to a neighbouring African country.

They are therefore urging the EFCC to :

1. Place an immediate lien on the N8 billion promissory notes

2. Stop all banks in Nigeria from granting value for the notes

3. Compel Hon. Eze Nwa to produce those whose signatures he allegedly used

4. Investigate the alleged collusion between the DMO and private individuals

The petitioners lament that after 17 years of waiting to receive the compensation awarded to victims of the devastating invasion, “an unknown third party has colluded with the Debt Management Office and collected the sum of eight billion naira… but refused to remit same to the litigation account as ordered by the court.”

The EFCC is yet to issue an official response at the time of filing this report.

Our Reporter

A dramatic political twist swept through Plateau State on Monday 1st December 2025 as a coalition of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members stormed the streets of Jos, urging Governor Caleb Mutfwang to abandon the PDP and defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The peaceful rally, which drew members from all 17 local government areas, began at the busy Secretariat Junction and surged toward the new Government House, Little Rayfield, creating a spectacle that caught the attention of residents and political watchers across the state.

Leading the charge was Christopher Danjem, the coalition’s convener, who declared that the governor’s defection had become “imperative” for the progress of Plateau State.

 According to Danjem, aligning Governor Mutfwang with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would unlock unprecedented federal support and accelerate development across the state.

“We, the members of the coalition of PDP members from across Plateau, are calling on our governor to join the APC,” Danjem announced, insisting the move was necessary after a careful analysis of the state’s political landscape.

 He praised Mutfwang as “a performer and architect of good governance,” adding that his achievements would flourish under the umbrella of the ruling party.

Danjem also lauded President Tinubu for what he described as the President’s “love and concern” for Plateau, especially regarding the state’s persistent security challenges.

Among the demonstrators were notable PDP figures, including former Jos South party chairman Dung Tari, whose presence further amplified the message of the rally.

Upon arrival at Government House, the group presented a formal letter urging the governor to immediately cross over to the APC. 

The letter was received by Jeremiah Satmak, Chief of Staff to the Governor, who expressed appreciation for the group’s solidarity.

Satmak assured them that their message would be conveyed to Governor Mutfwang, while urging citizens to continue supporting and praying for the governor as he steers the affairs of the state.

By,giwa alex, Jos

In a series of budget defence sessions before the Plateau State House of Assembly, key government agencies on Monday 1st December 2025 unveiled ambitious programmes for 2026, signalling a renewed commitment to expanding healthcare coverage, revitalizing urban infrastructure and sustaining pension payments across the State.

The Acting Director General of the Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLASCHEMA), Dr. Kwande Solomon, said the agency’s 2026 budget is designed to push the state closer to achieving universal health coverage.

According to him, the budget defence was “a very important step that will give us the platform to continue delivering quality healthcare to the people of Plateau State.”

Dr. Solomon revealed that the agency’s mandate remains the protection of all residents of the state through affordable health insurance.

 He explained that the 2026 budget includes expanded programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation, and a major boost to community-based health insurance.

He recalled that the State Council on Health had earlier approved the implementation of the community-based scheme, which shifts ownership of health insurance “from the agency down to the people in the communities.”

Highlighting achievements so far, the DG disclosed that over 26,000 poor and vulnerable residents have already been enrolled across the 17 local government areas through the Equity Health Plan.

“Our target is to capture at least One Million people in 2026. The poor and vulnerable will be prioritized because health insurance can lift people out of poverty and support socio-economic development,” he said.

Responding to questions about previous plans to establish local government offices, Dr. Solomon confirmed that the structures are now functional and staffed across all 17 LGAs.

He noted that the offices carry out enrolment, sensitisation, and support services for beneficiaries accessing care in health facilities.

The operations are further coordinated through three zonal offices in Barkin Ladi (North), Pankshin (Central) and Shendam (South).

“It is no longer an aspiration. The offices are running, and we intend to sustain and strengthen them in the coming year,” he added.

At the pension board’s budget defence, the Executive Secretary of the Local Government Staff Pension Board, Mrs. Helen Davut (MNI), described the 2026 proposal as a breakthrough.

She announced that, for the first time, pension and gratuity payments have been formally included in the state budget,an inclusion she said is crucial for clearing outstanding liabilities.

“Without budgetary provision, you can hardly access funds. We are grateful that the government and State Assembly agreed to include gratuity payments, however small. What matters is that the backlog will now be tackled continuously,” she said.

Mrs. Helen Dabup confirmed that the board is up-to-date with monthly pension payments and has already cleared gratuities from 1987 to

 2000.

She assured pensioners of sustained progress in 2026.

 “They should keep hope alive. This government has provided hope, and with patience everything will be okay.”

The General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), Hart Bankrt also took the stage to defend the board’s 2026 budget, highlighting the agency’s push for urban renewal and infrastructural expansion.

He clarified concerns about the overlap of functions with other departments, stating that the governor has directed the Ministry of Justice to harmonize all laws guiding agency operations.

Looking ahead to 2026, Bokat outlined the projects residents should expect  :

Opening of new city layouts

Expansion of the metropolis into emerging zones

Full settling of traders in the new market

Creation of neighbourhood markets

Provision of key infrastructural facilities

Establishment of recreational areas across communities

 “If all goes as planned, the city will experience greater expansion and improved public spaces in 2026,” he said confidently.

With each agency laying out its priorities,from health insurance expansion and pension stability to structured urban growth,the 2026 budget presentation painted a picture of a Plateau State steering decisively toward social welfare, infrastructure development, and improved governance.

By, giwa alex, Jos.

Gov. Caleb Mutfwang and former Governor Joshua Dariye electrified worshippers at the second edition of the Christmas Carol at the 10 Commandments in Du, Jos South, delivering prophetic declarations, pledges of unity, and a rare show of bipartisan solidarity.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Sunday night lit up the iconic 10 Commandments Monument in Du, Jos South LGA, as he declared that “living waters will flow over our souls,” marking the grand finale of the second edition of the Christmas Carol,an event that drew thousands of worshippers from across Plateau and beyond.

Addressing the overflowing crowd, the governor said the gathering was orchestrated for divine encounters, reminding participants that they came not merely to sing or dance but “to meet God and see God.” 

He thanked church leaders for sacrificing their weekend to anchor the spiritual convocation, praising their unity and commitment to the Great Commission.

Mutfwang emphasized that Plateau’s progress depends on the people’s willingness to place collective interest above personal or political divides.

“Our differences must be subsumed under the interest of Plateau State… all we do must be for the benefit of Plateau’s people,” he stressed.

The governor noted that invitations were extended to all Plateau leaders, acknowledging that some were unavoidably absent but insisting that his administration remains committed to unity.

He expressed deep appreciation to the Yeshua Kingdom Foundation and its leader, Dajon Adjan, whose vision has turned the 10 Commandments arena into a spiritual home for Plateau, Nigeria, and the global Christian community. 

Mutfwang also applauded General Christopher Musa for his continued support toward improving security in the state, even after leaving service.

The governor celebrated both local and visiting choirs and gospel ministers, urging the audience never to look down on homegrown talents because “God has deposited grace upon our local singers.”

In a lighter moment that triggered laughter, he jokingly described Abuja as Plateau’s “18th local government” due to its massive diaspora population.

As the night reached its spiritual peak, Mutfwang invited former Governor and Senator Joshua Dariye to the podium, introducing him as “a dear brother and committed servant of the Lord.”

Dariye, speaking with heartfelt emotion, thanked God for preserving his life, noting that not everyone who saw the beginning of the year made it to December. 

He described Plateau as a state that has endured “many crises and challenges,” insisting that the only enduring solution lies in returning to God. Quoting Exodus 14:13–14, he proclaimed  :

“The Egyptians we see today, we shall see them no more.”

He acknowledged the presence of Dr. Paul Enenche and commended the spiritual intensity of the night.

In the moment that drew the loudest applause, Dariye declared his unequivocal support for Governor Mutfwang   :

“Whether you voted for him or you didn’t vote for him, you have to allow him to rule until his tenure is over.”

He urged the governor to “fear not,” pledging solidarity on behalf of all former Plateau leaders.

By, giwa alex,jos.

Former Plateau State Governor and founder of the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar, Sen. Jonah David Jang, has lauded Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for sustaining and elevating the Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival, describing the 2025 edition as the most remarkable yet.

Speaking during the three-day second edition of the Christmas Carols and Praise Festival held from 18th–30th November 2025 at the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar, Jang declared that this year’s programme was “even greater than the first,” attributing its success to the unwavering commitment of Governor Mutfwang. 

He praised the governor’s decision to make the Yeshua Kingdom Foundation International and the Ten Commandments Holy Altar the permanent home of the state-wide celebration.

Jang revealed that when Governor Mutfwang opted to move the festival to the Ten Commandments site, the foundation gladly stepped aside to allow the state government full ownership of the event for the collective benefit of Christians across Plateau. 

He further disclosed that the governor had pledged to host the carols and praise festival every year throughout his administration.

“I pray that God will give us a successor who will continue, so this Christmas Carols and Praise Festival will continue in Plateau until Jesus comes,” Jang remarked.

Reflecting on the spiritual significance of the gathering, the former governor expressed deep gratitude to God for granting Plateau people another opportunity to celebrate the birth and saving grace of Jesus Christ at such a monumental altar. 

He described himself humbly as “one of the greatest sinners whom Christ has saved,”

 noting that it was only by divine grace that he received the vision to construct the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar.

Jang clarified that the edifice was never intended to operate as a conventional church but as a global place of worship and intercession.

“God has not told me to build a church here. This is not for Sunday services. It is a place of worship, a place of prayer. God told me this vision will draw people from all over the world to this holy altar,” he stated.

He disclosed that ongoing expansion works aim to enlarge the platform and seating areas to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims trooping to the site yearly.

Jang also responded to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s suggestion that Plateau seek recognition from the World Spiritual Tourism Event. 

While welcoming the idea, he cautioned that the altar must not be reduced to a casual leisure spot.

“If we call it a tourist centre, people will start coming here for picnics and parties. That is not the vision God gave me. I prefer we call it a spiritual tourist centre on the Plateau,” he explained.

Reaffirming the altar’s global mission, Jang declared the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar an international spiritual sanctuary for the entire Christian community world Beacon.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo 

Troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, has on Saturday neutralized four armed militia members and recovered weapons during a rapid response to renewed communal violence in Usmanu Village, Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State. 

Umar Muhammad, Lieutenant Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army said the clash stemmed from long-standing land disputes between Shomo and Wurkun communities, which escalated into armed attacks and property destruction, including burning of houses.

According to Umar, “Upon receiving credible intelligence, 6 Brigade swiftly deployed forces to restore order. In the ensuing exchange, soldiers neutralized four attackers and recovered three dane guns, one fabricated AK-47 rifle, twenty-five rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.

“During the operation, a police personnel was arrested for operating alongside the militia and is undergoing investigation.

“The operation followed credible intelligence indicating a resurgence of violence.

“The troops came under fire from armed assailants emerging from the Fadama axis,” he said 

Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, praised troops for their bravery and commitment to professionalism.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The 2025 Plateau State Unity Carol on Saturday 29th November 2025 witness  a rich assembly of dignitaries, including Governor Caleb Mutfwang, former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, lawmakers, traditional rulers, missionaries from South Africa and Uganda, and academic representatives. 

Scripture readings from Micah 5:1–3, Matthew 1:18–23, and Luke 2:1–7 set a deeply reflective tone before a four-year-old girl stunned the hall by reciting over 160 Bible verses, prompting Governor Mutfwang to personally applaud her brilliance on stage.

The evening took a solemn turn when former Deputy Governor and Minister, Dame Pauline Tallen, delivered a stirring message urging citizens to embrace unity and sober reflection amid rising threats to Plateau’s identity as the Home of Peace and Tourism.

 She prayed for peace, called for repentance from perpetrators of violence, and invoked divine justice for those who refuse to change.

 Tallen also honoured former Governor Jonah Jang for birthing the globally admired Ten Commandments Monument.

With powerful choir performances from Kaduna, Abuja, and neighboring states, the event closed with collective prayers for sustained peace, unity, and progress across Plateau State.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Ambassador Yohanna Margif, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Plateau State, opened up on the stormy political climate in the state, the wave of defections shaking the party system, and the leadership legitimacy of Comrade Solomon Nda Edem, who he boldly affirmed as the only authentic Labour Party Chairman on the Plateau.

The interview, conducted under intense political tension, provides rare insight into the behind-the-scenes struggles shaping Plateau’s political future.

Ambassador Margif began by addressing the ongoing rumours of defection among political actors on the Plateau. According to him, the situation is akin to “a family whose house has caught fire ,running in confusion, unsure of where to take refuge.”

He noted that many politicians are still undecided on their next political destination, contributing to the widespread tension.

 “People are talking about defections, counter-defections… but the truth is, most politicians have not officially announced where they are going.”

Rumours have intensified that some key players may defect to the APC, but Margif maintains that until official declarations are made, everything remains speculation.

Margif highlighted that the current political dispensation has produced a more informed and politically mature electorate.

“You can no longer deceive any voter today. They have heard everything, seen everything, and experienced all forms of political tricks. Nothing surprises them anymore.”

He stressed that this new level of awareness means leaders must act with more integrity, as the electorate now hold politicians accountable.

When asked about the growing trend of defections, Margif made it clear that while any governor or politician has the constitutional right to defect, the decision must be personal and not forced or manipulated.

 “Yes, a governor can defect. But it is the governor himself who defects , not the people. Leaders must understand that once something is chasing you or you are pursuing something else, you cannot carry the people along blindly.”

Addressing internal matters within the Labour Party, Margif firmly reaffirmed Comrade Solomon Nda Edem as the legitimate and undisputed Labour Party Chairman in Plateau State.

 “Solomon Edem is the authentic Chairman of the Labour Party in Plateau State. There is no controversy about that.”

He further clarified that at the national level, the structure remains under Barr. Lamidi Apapa, maintaining order within the party’s leadership hierarchy.

Margif narrated a recent episode where communication gaps created temporary tension between him and Chairman Edem.

Despite this, Margif expressed confidence that the issue was not serious and could be resolved through dialogue.

He described Edem as capable and committed, urging party members to maintain unity instead of allowing misunderstandings to escalate.

Margif painted a vivid picture of the current political uncertainty  :

 “The house is burning. People are running. But the head of the family , the leader , is searching for a bigger house to take shelter.”

According to him, some leaders are exploring other political platforms, but the Labour Party in Plateau State still stands strong under Edem’s discipline and structure.

In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Margif urged party members and supporters to remain calm, united, and focused despite the turbulence.

 “We cannot know the fate of political parties until after the coming national activities. But for now, Solomon Edem is our Chairman, and the Labour Party remains strong.”

He emphasized that Plateau’s political future is still unfolding and that only coherent leadership and collective responsibility will determine the final outcome.

With Ambassador Yohanna Margif breaking his silence, one thing is now certain :

 Comrade Solomon Nda Edem remains the affirmed and legitimate Labour Party Chairman in Plateau State.

As political tension deepens and defections loom, Plateau watches closely , and the political atmosphere grows hotter by the day.

————-How A National Debate Turned Faith Against Faith, Truth Against Pain”.

By Emma Gogwim Kayi

When the storm first broke over the push to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the United States, one unsettling thought crept in. 

The debate,driven by accusations that Christians were being persecuted,was so charged, so emotionally explosive, that common sense itself appeared in danger of becoming collateral damage.

What began as a policy conversation quickly hardened into a national confrontation. And at the centre of the crossfire was a voice once regarded as a moral compass: Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto.

Few could have predicted that a cleric respected for moderation would be attacked, even by fellow church leaders, for allegedly downplaying the “tribulations” of Christians.

 Critics dug up old statements to accuse him of inconsistency. One commentator pointed to the fate of more than 140 murdered Catholic priests and demanded  :

Has the Bishop grown deaf to the cries of the slaughtered?

Into this heated atmosphere stepped Professor Usman Yusuf,haematologist, oncologist, former NHIS boss, and a man whose influence straddles religious divides.

 In a viral Trust TV interview, he dismissed the claims of Christian persecution outright.

His verdict was absolute  : Christian leaders are not presenting the correct picture. No, they are not.

Known for his bluntness, Yusuf did not mince words. He said the “Christian genocide” narrative was a falsehood crafted to attract sympathy and funding. 

Even the Owo church massacre, he insisted, had been misrepresented as a Fulani terror attack. Yes, killings occurred in Benue, Plateau, nd Southern Kaduna, he admitted,but he rejected the label of genocide, arguing that violence was widespread across Nigeria.

But his claims opened a darker, more uncomfortable set of questions  :

If killings are everywhere, who exactly are the victims?

If terror stalks communities, who are the perpetrators?

Are Christian Idomas killing Christian Tivs in Benue?

Are the Ron-Kulere, Mwaghavul, Berom, and Atakar murdering each other in Plateau?

Are the Christian Adara wiping out the Christian Ikulu in Southern Kaduna?

If not, then who is behind the carnage?

In the interview, Yusuf added a seemingly harmless detail  : he had attended Christian schools as a child.

“This is not Christianity,” he said, rejecting claims of persecution.

But that statement touched a deeper nerve.

What happened to the very Christian schools he once attended?

A quiet, older form of erasure looms in the background,one many Christians believe is a policy-driven assault on their identity.

 Across the far North, once-thriving missionary schools were taken over, renamed, absorbed, or left to rot.

 Meanwhile, similar institutions in Plateau, Benue, and Nasarawa continue to flourish.

Historians recall a time when a motion was even raised in the Northern House of Assembly to ban Christian missionaries from the region altogether.

So Christians ask  :

What happened to our history?

What became of our institutions?

Why were the names erased?

Is St. John’s College, Kaduna, not now Rimi College?

Did Queen of Apostles not become Queen Amina College?

Did St. Peter’s not transform into Government College, Kaduna?

What of St. Louis Kano, St. Louis Zonkwa, or the Sudan Interior Mission schools across Kagoro, Kafanchan, and Zaria?

For many, these were not mere administrative takeovers,they were strategic blows designed to weaken the Church’s long-standing influence.

‘More Muslims Have Died’,A Claim That Deepened the Divide

When asked whether his comments might anger Christians in Plateau and Benue,regions that have endured unthinkable violence,Professor Yusuf’s answer was blunt enough to freeze the air:

 “More Muslims have been killed in Katsina than in Benue or Plateau. End of story.”

But suffering cannot be quantified.

The widow in Irigwe, whose entire family was wiped out and whose village now bears a new name under new occupants, gains no comfort from knowing others died elsewhere.

Her pain has a face. Her loss has a name.

And someone must answer for it.

For years, terrorists, extremists, bandits, and their sponsors have operated freely across Nigeria—sometimes even rewarded with “rehabilitation.” 

Victims receive condolences, not justice. Communities rebuild graves, not lives. From the Middle Belt to the North East, the North West, and now the South, the violence has spread like a plague without restraint.

So if some Nigerians speak of genocide, it is because ordinary vocabulary no longer captures their reality.

If some seek help from foreign governments, it is because local cries echo unanswered.

If Christians no longer turn the other cheek, it is because whole bodies,not just cheeks,are being buried in mass graves.

The CPC designation by the United States amplified the debate.

Government officials reacted with outrage, insisting Nigeria is not religiously intolerant.

 But global perception is shaped not by government declarations, but by what the world sees unfolding in real time.

And Nigeria’s global image is already burdened by reliance on foreign funding for sanitation, education, governance, and even elections. The idea of outsiders evaluating our internal failings touched a raw nerve.

Yet the government still has an opportunity to reclaim its narrative. It can  :

engage international partners constructively,

confront terrorism decisively,

deliver justice without bias, and

guarantee equal protection to Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists alike.

If we do not want foreigners describing our “nakedness,” then we must weave a new garment,stitched with fairness, security, dignity, and freedom. A cloth wide enough to cover every Nigerian.

Such a transformation demands leadership that unites rather than inflames, leadership that manages diversity with firmness, honesty, and compassion.

History may yet record that at this critical moment, Nigeria rose above its fault lines,that truth was confronted, wrongs were punished, justice was restored, and every community found equal refuge beneath the law.

If we do this together, the so-called “genocide divide” will not be the story of our undoing,but the turning point of our rebirth.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State on Friday 28th November 2025 night witnessed an extraordinary convergence of political leaders, clergy, traditional rulers and citizens as Governor Caleb Mutfwang led thousands in a powerful, statewide worship gathering described as “a testament to divine mercy and the unbroken spirit of Plateau people.”

The annual event, held at the iconic worship grounds envisioned by former Governor Jonah Jang, unfolded with an atmosphere thick with gratitude, unity and renewed purpose. 

The governor,speaking with emotional depth,declared that despite trials and turbulence, “the Lord has been good… exceedingly good to Plateau.”

Opening his address, Governor Mutfwang reminded worshippers that while individuals can praise God in their homes, heaven rejoices especially when God’s people gather in unity.

“Tonight we lay aside every division. We gather under one banner,the banner of Jesus Christ,” he proclaimed, drawing a thunderous applause from the crowd.

He stressed that Plateau’s greatest victories will come when its people choose unity over rivalry.

 “This state is blessed,” he repeated. “But we cannot attain our full potential when we oppose and undermine one another. 

With unity, we close the door against the enemy. With unity, we speak with one voice. With unity, we pursue the same vision.”

In a rare show of solidarity, the event drew every arm of government, including representation from the office of the Deputy Governor and the Judiciary, highlighted by the presence of Justice David Mann, the Chief Judge of Plateau State.

The governor also acknowledged several national figures who graced the celebration, most notably   :

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, honoured as “an African statesman and global citizen” whose enduring love for Nigeria was repeatedly praised.

Former governors and senior statesmen, including Gen. Martin Luther Agwai (rtd) and Dr. Boni Haruna, former Governor of Adamawa State.

Military brass, clerical leaders, and senior traditional rulers from across Plateau.

Mutfwang noted that the large turnout of past and present leaders reflected a renewed commitment to the state’s peace and collective destiny.

In a gesture that drew murmurs of respect from the crowd, Governor Mutfwang paid special homage to former Governor Jonah David Jang, describing him as “the father of modern Plateau and the visionary behind this magnificent venue.”

He recalled how critics misunderstood the project in its early days, but emphasized that today the grounds have become “a beacon of unity and a sanctuary of prayer for the entire state.”

The governor concluded with a passionate plea for Plateau people to abandon old divisions and embrace a shared future.

 “My brothers and sisters, Plateau belongs to all of us. Let us drop the things that divide us.”

The crowd responded with chants, hymns and standing ovations as the worship continued late into the night, echoing through the highlands of the state.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday, 28th November 2025, stormed the Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival with a fiery message to Nigeria’s leaders  : enough is enough.

Speaking at the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar in Du, Jos South LGA, Obasanjo lamented the unending wave of banditry, kidnappings, and killings across the country, declaring that Nigerians “can no longer tolerate excuses” while innocent citizens continue to die.

Addressing government officials, religious leaders, and dignitaries, the former president accused authorities of failing in their most basic duty,protecting lives. 

He insisted that Nigeria has the right to seek international assistance if the government cannot contain the crisis.

“We Nigerians are being killed,Christians, Muslims, people from every tribe and background.

 Every Nigerian life matters,” he said. “If our government cannot stop the killings, then we have the right to appeal to the international community to help us. There should be no apology for that.”

Obasanjo condemned the endless cycle of bloodshed, warning that no excuse,ethnicity, religion, or region,should be used to mask government inaction.

 He expressed disbelief that in an age of satellite imagery, drone technology, and advanced surveillance systems, criminals still operate freely.

“In today’s world, no criminal can hide,” he declared. “So why are we negotiating with criminals and even paying them? It has to stop.”

He called on Nigerians to remain prayerful but stressed that prayers must be matched with courageous leadership and concrete action.

Despite his stern warnings, Obasanjo praised Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for sustaining the Unity Christmas Carols, describing the event as divinely inspired and capable of promoting peace.

 He urged the state to elevate the festival onto the global tourism calendar.

Governor Mutfwang, in his response, thanked the former president and acknowledged the presence of top dignitaries, including former ministers, senior judges, and retired military officers.

 He reaffirmed Plateau State’s commitment to unity, peace, and cultural preservation.

The 2025 Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival, holding from 28th–30th November 2025, continues as part of the state’s wider efforts to rebuild relationships, strengthen peace, and celebrate the shared heritage of the Plateau people.

By, Musa Jankada, Jalingo

Taraba State was thrown into a wave of administrative restructuring on Monday as Governor Agbu Kefas approved sweeping reforms that dramatically reshape the state’s ministries, with a strong emphasis on social welfare and education.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps, who revealed that the governor had endorsed a far-reaching reorganisation aimed at sharpening government focus and improving public service delivery.

According to the SSG, the reforms begin with the redesignation of the Ministry of Cooperatives & Poverty Alleviation, which has now been replaced with the Ministry of Social Development & Human Services—a move expected to expand the scope of social welfare interventions across the state.

In a bold overhaul of the education sector, Governor Kefas approved the creation of two entirely new ministries :

Ministry of Nursery & Basic Education, and

Ministry of Secondary, Vocational and Skill Education.

These new ministries effectively break up the former unified education structure, signalling what officials describe as a “more targeted and developmental approach” to schooling at all levels.

Additionally, the Ministry of Social Justice & Re-Integration has been streamlined and rebranded as the Ministry of Social Justice, aligning its mandate with emerging administrative priorities.

Kataps noted that the detailed mandates and operational frameworks of the newly created and redesigned ministries will be released shortly by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the State.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau State Government on Tuesday 27th November 2025 opened a crucial stakeholders’ engagement meeting aimed at clarifying the implications of the 2025 Nigerian fiscal laws, reassuring citizens that the new tax framework is designed to strengthen governance,not to punish the public.

The engagement, held at the Suji World Event Center, Apollo Crescent, Jos, drew a large crowd of business leaders, civil society groups, government representatives and community stakeholders, all eager to understand the new fiscal realities ahead of January 2026.

Declaring the meeting open on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Architect Samuel Jatau, the Executive Chairman of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS), Dr. Jim Wayas, apologized for the SGS’s absence, explaining that he was attending multiple state functions taking place simultaneously.

Wayas emphasized that the new fiscal bill, set to take effect on January 1st, 2026, affects not only Plateau State’s revenue structure but every citizen across the state and the country.

He noted that the meeting became necessary to demystify the provisions of the law and prepare residents ahead of implementation.

He clarified that contrary to widespread fears, the law is not punitive but rather a modern approach to fiscal administration.

 “These laws are not here to kill anybody. They are here to guide our processes,” he explained.

“One of the most significant reforms is the unification of tax administration nationwide,from the Federal Inland Revenue Service to state revenue agencies and down to local governments. There is now clear autonomy across all levels.”

The revenue chief encouraged participants to ask critical questions, dispel misinformation and understand their responsibilities under the new law.

He acknowledged that several misconceptions had emerged,from claims that the bill would cripple small businesses to fears that only wealthy Nigerians would be targeted.

Resource persons delivered detailed presentations breaking down complex provisions into clear, practical insights. 

Their explanations drew applause as they clarified the new taxable asset thresholds and other requirements under the 2025 fiscal framework.

In a closing remark on behalf of the Internal Revenue Service, the organisers commended participants for their active engagement, describing the turnout as “a clear demonstration of the people’s commitment to building a stronger, transparent and efficient tax administration system.”

A special acknowledgment was also extended to Dr. Wayas for his “visionary leadership in aligning Plateau State’s revenue reforms with global best practices.”

The meeting concluded with a renewed call for sustained collaboration between government and citizens to ensure the smooth implementation of the 2026 fiscal laws and to drive sustainable development across Plateau State.

“Together, we can build a system that benefits every citizen,” the concluding message read.

By, giwa alex, Jos

 What began as a formal Senate Ad-Hoc Committee Public Hearing on National Security in Jos on 27th November 2025 dramatically unfolded into one of the most emotionally charged security dialogues the North-Central region has witnessed in years.

Plateau State Governor opened the session, painting a devastating picture of two decades of violence that have left the state “scarred and struggling for breath.”

He disclosed that   :

420 communities were attacked,

Nearly 12,000 residents killed,

Livelihoods “wiped out”,

And land-grabbing and illegal mining now fueling the conflict.

He warned that the patterns of killings were “deliberate, coordinated and sustained,” calling for a national reawakening  :

“If government’s primary duty is security and welfare, then we must admit we have failed our people.”

Tension heightened when Fulani stakeholders, led by the Coalition of Fulani Registered Organizations and Miyetti Allah, countered the governor’s narrative.

 “Criminals exist everywhere. Stop calling every Fulani man a terrorist. Call criminals criminals.”

Reopening of blocked grazing routes,

Development of grazing reserves,

Literacy programs for Fulani youth,

Inclusion of Fulani in local security architecture,

Government intervention in cattle rustling, illegal arms flow, and mining-linked criminality.

They insisted that land grabbing affects “everyone,” not just one side.

Victims From Bokkos Present a Darker, Bloodier Account.

Representatives of the Bokkos Cultural Development Forum delivered perhaps the most harrowing submission.

In a trembling voice, the speaker recounted  :

783 people killed,

689 injured,

101 women raped,

25,822 assets destroyed,

38 mass burial sites across Bokkos alone.

They demanded   :

1. Profiling and evacuation of newly arrived Fulani groups,

2. Return of all grabbed ancestral lands,

3. Military raids of mountains now used as bandit hideouts,

4. Surveillance of border corridors leading into Plateau,

5. A full independent forensic investigation and compensation for victims.

Civil society voices intensified the mood, accusing the government of ignoring open genocide.

One speaker declared  :

 “Boko Haram, bandits and armed Fulani herders,this triumvirate of evil,bleeds the nation. Their funding lines must be cut.”

Criminalization of land grabbing,

Anti-terrorism courts,

Community interfaith peace committees,

A National Freedom of Religion and Belief Council,

And equal rights for churches to obtain certificates of occupancy across northern states.

As the hearing grew more intense, emotions spilled over.

Some speakers accused political leaders of lacking the political will to act.

Others warned Nigeria was “dying slowly,” insisting that  :

 “We don’t care who is being killed ,Muslims or Christians. Nigerians are dying. Stop the killings now.”

Despite divergent accounts, the event made one truth undeniable  :

Plateau’s wounds run deep, its communities traumatized, and its future uncertain.

Our Reporter.

In a decisive push to clean up Nigeria’s recruitment sector, the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria (EAPEAN) on Tuesday embarked on two high-level engagements in Lagos,first with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMLE), and later with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).

The mission: strengthen regulation, expose fake recruiters, and step up nationwide public awareness against exploitation, trafficking, and irregular migration.

The day kicked off at the Ikoyi Office of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment where the EAPEAN delegation, led by its President and Chairman of Council, Amb. Chief (Dr.) Nzeribe Okegbue was received by top officials, including Ms. Mienye Badejo, Zonal Director for the South-West; Mr. E.A. Itemoagbo, State Controller; and Ms. Juliet Ekpenyong-Odanye, Head of the Migrant Resource Centre/NELEX.

In a powerful address, Amb. Okegbue reminded the Ministry of its historic role in giving birth to EAPEAN 17 years ago and called for renewed synergy to tackle the surge in unethical recruitment practices.

“Our sector cannot thrive in isolation. Licensing, inspection, monitoring, and labour migration governance must be strengthened,urgently.

 Illegal recruiters are endangering lives,” he warned.

EAPEAN tabled key demands including  :

Joint monitoring and enforcement operations

Faster processing of licences for compliant agencies

Firm action against quacks and unregistered recruiters

Stronger collaboration in labour migration governance

Zonal Director Ms. Badejo endorsed the Association’s calls :

“Your requests align perfectly with the Ministry’s drive for a transparent recruitment landscape. We are ready to strengthen our partnership.”

State Controller Mr. Itemoagbo described EAPEAN as “an indispensable stakeholder,” pledging closer cooperation on inspections and enforcement.
NELEX Head Ms. Ekpenyong-Odanye emphasized the shared responsibility in migrant protection, highlighting the urgent need for data exchange, training, and widespread sensitization.
Their commitments marked a strong institutional backing for EAPEAN’s push for fair recruitment.

The advocacy tour continued as the EAPEAN team visited the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, home to Radio One, Bond FM, and Metro FM.

Amb. Okegbue delivered a stark warning about the deadly consequences of unlicensed operators  :

“Every day, innocent Nigerians fall victim because they cannot distinguish between licensed recruiters and quacks. Lives are lost to trafficking, irregular migration, and even organ harvesting. We need massive public enlightenment,urgently.”

He called the media “a national ally in protecting workers” and urged FRCN to amplify the message of safe, legal recruitment.

He also congratulated Princess Adenike Adegoke on her recent appointment as Director, Lagos Operations.

Princess Adegoke assured EAPEAN of full support  :

“The rise in exploitation and organ harvesting makes regulation more important than ever. Radio Nigeria will partner with EAPEAN to take this message nationwide.”

Miss Maria Ihuoma, General Manager of Metro FM, encouraged EAPEAN to maximise FRCN’s wide reach  :

“Many Nigerians don’t know the crucial work EAPEAN is doing. We have flexible partnership options to amplify your message across the country.”

Ms. Mienye Badejo , Zonal Director, South West

Mr. E.A. Itemoagbo – State Controller

Ms. Juliet Ekpenyong-Odanye – Head, Migrant Resource Centre/NELEX

Ms. Kingsley Chucks, Labour Officer

Ms. Uchena Okon , Labour Officer
Mr. Abraham , Labour Officer
Other senior officials

Princess Adenike Adegoke, Director, Lagos Operations
Miss Maria Ihuoma ,General Manager, Metro FM
Engr. Ademola Akanbi , Deputy Director, Engineering

Mr. Wale Ajala , Head of Finance
Mr. Eso Adebayo , Head of Administration
Other senior officials.

Amb. Chief Nzeribe Okegbue, PhD , President/Chairman of Council

Otunba Tunji Balogun , Deputy President

Mrs. Perita Kimeng ,Treasurer
Mr. Jide Afolabi ,Executive Secretary

Ms. Chinenyenwa Arum, Accounts/Subscriptions Officer

Both the Labour Ministry and FRCN pledged sustained collaboration with EAPEAN in regulation, monitoring, public enlightenment, and labour migration governance.

The engagements ended with group photographs and presentation of EAPEAN-branded souvenirs, signalling renewed commitment to safeguarding Nigerian workers at home and abroad.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Grand Ballroom of Crispan Hotel erupted in emotion and standing ovations as former Plateau Governor Ambassador Fidelis Tagun, former Governor and Minister Senator Simon Bako Lalong, and retired Air Vice Marshal Napoleon Bali led a distinguished line-up of national icons honoured at the Honouring Legacies Conference 2025, hosted by The Mentors Guide Foundation under the leadership of its President and Founding Partner, Dr. Jemchang Fabong.

The event, which blended storytelling with national reflection, became a rare gathering of statesmen, religious leaders, scholars, military veterans and policy minds drawn from across Nigeria.

In his keynote narrative, Dr. Jemchang Fabong,former boss of PLASCHEMA,delivered a deeply personal account of his two-decade journey from a struggling student to national mentor-builder.

 His story triggered waves of applause as he relived moments of hardship, providence and resilience.

Fabong recounted how he once contested for the chairmanship of a new council, despite overwhelming pressure and political fear.

 “Everyone was terrified. The powers that be were against us,” he said. “But one voice told me  : ‘It is possible,by a landslide.’ And that changed my life.”

This pivotal moment, he explained, birthed the Mentor Model, after an encounter in a palace with Mr. Richard, and later evolved into the Mentorship Programme, shaped by wise counsel from Bishop-mentors and leadership thinkers across Nigeria.

The first Awardee ,Ambassador Fidelis Tagun , former civilian governor of plateau state  night legacy dominated the hall as Fabong recalled the Governor’s early intervention in providing textbooks for indigent students when school fees skyrocketed from ₦120,000 to ₦500,000.

“His generosity kept many of us in school,” Fabong testified, drawing emotional murmurs from the audience.

Next was Senator Bako Lalong, celebrated for decades of political leadership, inter-ethnic harmony efforts, and youth development. 

He praised Fabong for honouring icons during their lifetime, urging the younger generation to “learn from those who built without bitterness and led without arrogance.”

The retired Air Vice Marshal, known for his discipline and principled stance on national issues, received thunderous applause. 

Other Awardees include , chief Makwal and professor John wade for their separate contribution in their professional and other endeavors

Speakers hailed him as “a symbol of integrity in uniform and in politics.” Bali commended the foundation for bridging Nigeria’s tribal and religious divides.

Multiple speakers including former legislative leaders, senior clergy, scholars, and community reformers were also recognized for their service “across tribes, ethnicities and religions”,a hallmark of the Foundation’s inclusiveness.

One of the most gripping moments came when Fabong narrated how a teacher who had lost the ability to speak for six months suddenly uttered words upon seeing him.

“That is the miracle of meeting a student you believed in,” he said, as the hall fell silent.

He also recalled being denied school fees, hiding from collectors, reading borrowed textbooks, and depending on rare acts of kindness that later shaped his life philosophy : 

“Legacy is not what we leave behind,it is who we leave behind.”

The conference climaxed with the unveiling of the Second Cohort of the  Transition Mentorship Programme, selected from the (6) geopolitical zones. 

Only 14 exceptional candidates made the final cut.

Newly Inaugurated Mentors :

Divine Adagopi

Mohamed Yawu Kachere

Gareth Soorani-Doshua

Gautam Saini-Adomit

Daniel Omikunisade

Robert Chiamaka

Adekwoye Mugwala Nkibaraka

Brian Kute-Oroji

Suleyman Fatima-Mohamad

Awoka Ismail-Mohamad

Dr. Mark Oseosi

Mohamadi Sajaka

Musa Aisha

Aisha Wadah Aruna

These young leaders were celebrated for excellence in leadership, governance, financial intelligence, professionalism and civic responsibility.

Dr. Mohamed Omikunisade, invited to officiate their inauguration, described mentorship as “the engine of national continuity.”

The Awardees, in their individual messages, thanked Dr. Fabong for the rare gesture of honouring them while they are alive. 

They urged Nigerians to emulate the inclusive spirit of The Mentors Guide Foundation,whose leadership cuts across tribe, ethnicity, region and religion.

As the evening closed, Fabong left the hall with a line that echoed long after the lights dimmed  :

“Our gratitude must be stronger than our pride, and our service greater than our silence.”

By,giwa alex, Jos

The 2026 budget defence sessions at the Plateau State House of Assembly have entered a decisive stage as ministries, departments and institutions appeared before various committees to justify their allocations, defend expenditures, and outline visions for the new fiscal year. The proceedings, held across committee rooms of the Assembly complex, revealed a mix of progress, challenges, and bold ambitions for Plateau’s development agenda.

The first major appearance came from the Plateau State College of Agriculture, Garkawa, where the Provost, Rev. Nathan Aquila-Lox, led management staff to defend their proposed 2026 budget.

The session focused heavily on lost programme accreditations, particularly in Animal Production Technology, which the institution is struggling to restore.

Rev. Aquila-Lox described the engagement as “fruitful and family-like”, noting that legislators provided critical guidance on  :

Strengthening income and expenditure frameworks

Adjusting capital and recurrent spending

 “We have worked with this committee for two years. We believe in their support and thank God for a very successful engagement,” he said.

Following the college’s session, attention shifted to the Ministry of Agriculture, where the Hon. Commissioner, Samson Bugama, was questioned over revenue projections in light of Plateau’s record-breaking 2026 budget.

Bugama admitted that weak synergy between state, LGA revenue agents, and produce tax collectors remains the ministry’s biggest stumbling block. 

He assured lawmakers that Governor Mutfwang has already constituted a high-powered revenue enhancement committee chaired by the Attorney General to streamline collections across markets and produce corridors.

The Commissioner outlined a private-sector-led agricultural transformation strategy, with a clear focus on :

Farmer capacity building

Access to agricultural insurance

Stronger market linkages

Development of aggregation centres.

Partnership with investors and agri-platforms.

 “We want Plateau farmers to become richer. Our budget is technical and value-chain focused to generate real income for rural communities,” he emphasized.

The day’s final highlight was the appearance of the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Town Planning, which earned unusual praise from the House Committee chaired by Rt. Hon. Isa Madaki Ajiji.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Aliyu Tsoho Samuel, the ministry presented its capital project performance and defended a sharp rise in its proposed allocation for training and conferences.

Lawmakers described the ministry’s execution rate as “transparent, disciplined, and highly commendable”, noting that it remains on track to achieve up to 70% capital performance before year-end.

After reviewing the ministry’s justification for increased training funds,particularly for new technical conferences and specialized land administration courses,the committee recommended approval but warned  :

Stick strictly to approved budgets

Prioritize essential training programmes

Seek supplementary budgets only when absolutely necessary

From accreditation battles to revenue challenges and commendable project performance, the Plateau State 2026 budget defence sessions are unfolding with intense scrutiny and notable revelations.

 As more ministries take the stage in the coming days, lawmakers insist that prudence, transparency, and measurable outcomes will determine which proposals survive the final budget harmonization.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Plateau State Government says all is now set for the second edition of the Plateau Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival, a grand celebration of faith, gratitude, and oneness designed to reinforce peace and unity across the state.

Announcing the development, Arch. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, said the 2025 edition stands as a powerful testament to “God’s unending love, abundant blessings, and divine protection over Plateau State and Nigeria at large.”

According to Jatau, the festival,an initiative of the administration of Governor Barr. Caleb  Mutfwang,aims to deepen the bonds of love and friendship among Plateau’s diverse communities, fostering harmony through worship and shared spiritual expression.

He noted that the programme offers Christians within and beyond Nigeria an opportunity to gather in unity, honour God, and celebrate the unique cultural and spiritual identity that defines Plateau State.

The three-day festival will hold from Friday, 28th to Sunday, 30th November 2025, beginning daily at 3:30 p.m., at the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar, Du, in Jos South Local Government Area.

The event is expected to attract eminent national figures, including  :

Gen. Dr. Yakubu Gowon,  Former Head of State , Special Guest of Honour,

Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo,  Former President

Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy

Pastor Prof. Yemi Osinbajo,  Former Vice President

Pastor Dr. Paul Enenche, Senior Pastor, Dunamis International Gospel Centre

Worship will be elevated by the ministrations of top gospel ministers such as Sinach, Buchi, Uche and Loretta, and the Kungiyan Nasari Choir from Katsina State.

Other participants include Plateau indigenes based in Abuja, denominational choirs, women’s fellowships, regional singing groups, musicians, and choristers from the Southern and Central Senatorial Zones. 

A special children’s quiz and scripture recitation will also form part of the festival highlights.

Jatau revealed that preparations are in top gear to expand the venue’s capacity for an even larger turnout.

 Strategic viewing areas will be established to ensure smooth participation, while cubicles for vendors will be made available.

 More than 60 corporate organisations have already been invited to partner in the festival.

By, Taru Salim Dugub.

The unfolding drama within the Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has opened a fresh,and unexpected,chapter in the political chronicle of the state. 

What began as routine party disagreements has now snowballed into a full-blown factional divide, exposing two contrasting camps  : 

one aligning with the State Party Chairman and several National Assembly members advocating for Governor Caleb Mutfwang to defect to the APC, and another vehemently resisting the idea.

Yet, beneath the noise and political maneuvering, one truth stands tall,Governor Caleb Mutfwang has emerged as the defining force in Plateau politics.

 His influence is now so pronounced that even a party he does not belong to cannot make major strategic decisions without invoking his name.

 This alone speaks volumes about the respect, credibility, and undeniable political capital he commands.

Love him or oppose him, critics and supporters alike are increasingly acknowledging one fact : 

Governor Mutfwang’s leadership has altered Plateau’s political and developmental trajectory. 

His achievements have begun to speak louder than the voices of those who once doubted him.

Road projects are progressing across key sectors.

Deliberate peace-building efforts are easing tensions in various communities.

Governance is regaining order, discipline, and direction.

And perhaps most importantly, a renewed sense of hope is gradually returning to Plateau citizens.

Even some of his most vocal critics have quietly conceded that the Governor is delivering. This is the power of leadership anchored on results rather than rhetoric.

The current split inside the APC is not truly about ideology. It is about political relevance in the face of a rising force.

One faction seeks alignment with a performing leader, recognizing that development benefits all,regardless of party loyalty. 

The other fears losing ground to a Governor whose growing popularity could overshadow their influence.

For me, I side with the State Party Chairman’s camp. They understand a principle that should guide politics everywhere : when the leader of a state is performing, the entire state wins. Development is bigger than party colours.

History will surely judge those who choose to fight progress, just as it will celebrate those who embrace unity for the sake of Plateau’s future.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang has, in a short time, become a voice of unity ,not just within his party, but across the political spectrum.

 Influence of this magnitude is earned, not demanded. It emerges from visible work, sincere engagement with communities, and a commitment to governance that prioritizes people before power.

As political tensions simmer, one reality remains unchanged  :

Governor Caleb Mutfwang is working. Plateau people are seeing it. And his opponents,through their very reactions,are quietly affirming his significance.

When the history of this period is written, Mutfwang will not simply be remembered as a governor.

He will be recorded as the leader who restored confidence, rekindled hope, and raised the political temperature of Plateau State in a way that redefined its future.

The Cable reports.

Twenty-four of the schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, have been rescued, TheCable reported on Tuesday, quoting security sources.

According to the outlet, details of the rescue operation remain unclear, but an official announcement is expected later tonight.

The incident occurred on November 17th, when armed bandits attacked the school, killed a school official, injured a security guard, and abducted 25 female students, TheCable earlier reported.

A follow-up report by the BBC stated that two of the girls escaped from the captors as they were being marched into the forest. The BBC, citing Hussaini Aliyu, an official from Danko Wasagu LGA, said the students fled across nearby farmland before finding safety.

On November 19, the chairman of Danko/Wasagu LGA, Hussaini Aliyu, released the names of the 25 abducted schoolgirls. The list, seen by TheCable, was organised according to the students’ class categories.

Following the abduction, Bello Sani, Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, announced the deployment of additional tactical police units, supported by military personnel and vigilante groups. He said teams were combing suspected escape routes and surrounding forests as part of a coordinated search-and-rescue effort.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, also directed troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA to intensify the mission and “leave no stone unturned”.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu subsequently directed Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, to relocate to Kebbi State to oversee federal efforts to secure the students’ release, according to TheCable. The president instructed Matawalle to monitor ongoing security operations and coordinate with troops on the ground.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State was thrown into solemn reflection as Governor Caleb  Mutfwang on Tuesday 25th November 2025 paid an emotional condolence visit to the Jos residence of the late Mama Hannatu Joseph Gomwalk, revered widow of former Military Governor, J. D. Gomwalk, who passed on peacefully at an advanced age.

Arriving at the family home, Governor Mutfwang led senior government officials to console the bereaved family, describing the late matriarch as a woman of uncommon faith, deep humility and unwavering devotion to God.

 He noted that Mama Hannatu’s life was marked by service, sacrifice, compassion and kindness , qualities that shaped generations within and beyond the Gomwalk family.

The Governor reflected on the monumental impact of her late husband, Governor J. D. Gomwalk, calling his death “the closing of a major chapter” in Plateau’s history.

“There is little more one can add, because death remains an appointment for all,” he said. 

“I have spoken widely about the legendary J. D. Gomwalk, and we are putting together initiatives to ensure he regains his rightful place in the history of Plateau State and Nigeria. 

This loss is painful, especially at this time. May God grant you the fortitude to bear it.”

He highlighted Gomwalk’s visionary leadership, which birthed legacy institutions that still define Plateau State,among them the University of Jos, the Nigerian Standard Newspaper, the J. D. Gomwalk Secretariat, the Jos Wildlife Park, and the iconic Nigerian Standard building. 

Governor Mutfwang reiterated his commitment to revitalizing these historic projects to preserve their value for future generations.

Turning attention to the matriarch herself, the Governor praised Mama Hannatu’s extraordinary resilience, noting the trials she endured following her husband’s passing.

 He celebrated her strength in raising accomplished children, including Rev. Dunka Gwomwalk, Chairman of CAN, Plateau State, and CP Nendel Gwomwalk, who have distinguished themselves in ministry and public service.

On behalf of his family and the government of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang offered heartfelt prayers for comfort, peace and strength for the Gomwalk family during their period of mourning.

Responding, Prof. Nenfort Gomwalk expressed deep gratitude to the Governor, describing his visit as a profound source of encouragement. 

He said the family had lost a prayer warrior and a pillar whose absence would be deeply felt.

By Musa Jankada, Jalingo 

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has donated N1 million to Rejoice Isaac, an ex-corps member who lost her left arm in an accident during her service in Taraba State.

Rejoice Isaac with TR/24C/2523 who completed her one-year mandatory service in Taraba, was involved in a motor accident during her service year resulting in the amputation of her arm.

The NYSC Director-General, OO Nafiu, made the donation through the NYSC Hope Alive Foundation, citing Rejoice’s patriotic gesture and determination to continue her life despite her loss.

Speaking during a visit to Rejoice’s family home, the Taraba State Coordinator, Mr. Ella Aji Williams, said the DG was concerned about Rejoice’s plight and wanted to support her with a business venture.

“The Hope Alive Foundation made the presentation in recognition of her plight and to affirm that the NYSC will always continue to support corps members who sustain serious injury or disability during the service year,” he said.

Rejoice’s father, Mr. Sylvester Danjuma, expressed gratitude for the gesture, saying his daughter is hardworking and will utilize the support to continue her life struggles.

“My daughter is not lazy, even now she is doing her POS business and sells other things, With this succour, she will be able to continue her normal life,” he said.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has formally announced the full absorption and special compensation of over 2,000 ad-hoc staff across the state’s three tertiary institutions,College of Education Gindiri, Plateau State Polytechnic, and the College of Health Zawan,bringing to an end years of uncertainty, poor remuneration, and prolonged temporary service.

The announcement was made during an interactive session with the newly absorbed staff, attended by key government officials, institutional heads, labour representatives, and jubilant workers who described the day as “more than the day we were born.”

In her remarks, the Commissioner of Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Kachellom Gyang, commended the Governor for his insistence that ad-hoc and casual workers,some of whom had served for over 10 years,must not be ignored in the recruitment exercise.

 “That is to show he is indeed a father,compassionate and committed to the welfare of his children.”

She assured all present that the engagement with the Governor would yield fruitful outcomes and further strengthen the productivity of state institutions.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Mutfwang condemned what he described as “immoral and unlawful” last-minute recruitments that excluded long-serving ad-hoc staff who had sustained the institutions for years on meagre stipends ranging from ₦6,000 to ₦15,000.

 “When we came in, we discovered that none of you who kept these institutions running was given permanent appointment. That was immoral, unlawful, and wicked. We suspended the entire exercise to address the injustices.”

The Governor noted that after proper verification by newly inaugurated governing councils and a dedicated help desk at the Ministry of Education, the state approved the absorption of qualified staff.

In a highly emotional moment, Governor Mutfwang announced  :

“Even the years of collecting ₦6,000 and ₦15,000 should not only be appreciated but compensated. 

I have approved funds that will be distributed to the schools accordingly.”

He charged the staff to repay the gesture with dedication, productivity, and renewed commitment to the growth of Plateau’s educational sector.

Governor Mutfwang also encouraged staff to pursue higher qualifications  :

 “Those of you going for PhDs, we will support you. We want you to rise,many of you can become professors.”

Citing the rise in Plateau State Polytechnic admissions from about 3,000 to over 9,000 and the upgrade of 19 degree programs, he emphasized that education remains the foundation of development.

In a deeply emotional address, the leader of the absorbed staff, Mr. Josiah Sati, expressed overwhelming gratitude  :

 “For 23 years we cried daily. Some of us lost our marriages, our children dropped out of school. But today, Your Excellency, you wiped away our tears.”

He declared the group’s unanimous endorsement of the Governor for a second term, describing him as “the only leader who remembered us.”

The Chairman of Youth Development commended the Governor for creating opportunities for thousands of young people, acknowledging that many families and communities would now regain hope.

“The confidence the Governor has placed in you calls for productivity and efficiency. Do not betray this trust.”

Labour Relations Chairman, Hon. Titus Alam  : “A Long Journey Has Come to Fruition”.

Hon. Titus Alam applauded the perseverance of the workers and the government’s commitment to justice, particularly in the education sector.

“The Governor has taken education as a priority because he knows it is the foundation of all development. Do not disappoint the government.”

The event concluded with jubilant celebrations as staff from the three institutions pledged to repay the Governor’s kindness with hard work, discipline, and renewed dedication to institutional growth.

“We promise to give our very best for optimum productivity,” the workers declared.

With the Governor’s sweeping reforms, Plateau State’s tertiary education sector stands poised for significant transformation driven by stability, improved welfare, and motivated manpower.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Former Minister of Sports, Barr. Solomon Dalung, has ignited nationwide controversy after declaring that the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba in Damboa, Borno State, is “not an ordinary battlefield tragedy but a national scandal.”

General Uba was reportedly moving through one of Borno’s most volatile corridors when he was ambushed and killed,an incident that immediately raised questions due to the rarity of Generals operating in lightly supported frontline movements.

On Sunday 23rd November 2025, Dalung released a blistering commentary titled “Who Sent General Musa Uba to His Death?”, insisting that the circumstances surrounding the senior officer’s killing point to systemic failure and possible internal compromise within the military.

Dalung emphasized that in every professional military structure, Generals are shielded by multiple layers of security, intelligence, surveillance, and coordinated backup.

He argued that the total collapse of these layers in Uba’s case suggests “something far more sinister than operational bad luck.”

He questioned why Gen. Uba moved without armoured protection, air support, or surveillance cover, insisting that such exposure could not be accidental.

According to Dalung, someone cleared his movement, managed his intelligence briefing, and knew his exact route and timing.

Dalung asserted that high-value ambushes typically rely on leaked routes, delayed reinforcements, false intelligence, or deliberate withdrawal of support,casting suspicion on insider involvement.

The former minister further argued that entrenched corruption in the North-East,ranging from fuel diversion to ammunition theft and ghost-soldier payrolls,creates internal enemies for officers who resist wrongdoing.

He hinted that General Uba may have crossed paths with such interests.

Dalung warned that Nigeria faces two wars simultaneously  : 

one against insurgents and another against insiders who, in his words, “feed, fund, and enable them.”

Rejecting what he fears may become institutional silence, Dalung demanded a full, independent probe to uncover whether sabotage or betrayal contributed to the General’s death.

He concluded with a stark message  :

“While enemies in the forest are dangerous, the enemies within the fortress are far more deadly, because they alone possess the keys to open the gate.”

By, giwa alex, Jos

 The Plateau State House of Assembly’s 2026 Budget Appropriation Defence turned dramatic on Monday 24th November 2025 as multiple Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) filed in to defend their proposals, with the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) drawing the strongest attention over capital expenditure, security of electoral materials, and new technology for credible polls.

The defence session, which covered the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the Fire Service, the Muslim Pilgrims Board, the Christian Pilgrims Board, World Bank-related agencies, and PLASIEC, was supervised by Hon. Dutch Moses, Chairman of the House Committee on World Bank and Parastatals.

The defence opened with the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, represented by Dauda Garaga, who praised Governor Mutfwang’s projections but pleaded for a downward review of the board’s revenue target.

“We are not a revenue-oriented board. The proposed revenue is ₦16 million, but from January to September we made only ₦2.5 million,” Garaga explained.

He emphasized that the board’s key 2026 priority remains   :

Smooth Hajj operation

Welfare of pilgrims

Reliable logistics to and from Saudi Arabia

Next was the Hon. Commissioner for Housing, Sylvanus Toe, who described the defence as “a ritual every MDA must go through.”

Toe announced  :

Revenue target: ₦79m

Actual revenue generated: ₦91m

Capital project execution: Above
 50% performance

He explained that although the ministry initially submitted a ₦40 billion proposal, the Budget and Planning office reduced it to ₦16 billion.

Toe assured the House that major road projects and urban renewal works would reach completion by the first quarter of 2026, including  :

16.7km Husky Road, approved by the Governor.

 “All the road projects are dear to us because they open up Plateau State and impact the people positively,” he said.

Committee Chairman, Hon. Abel Nasak Nimchak, confirmed that most Housing Ministry projects were performing above average.

He raised concerns about  :

Over-recurrent project requests,

Need to downsize duplicated proposals,

Upgrading the Jos metropolis urban renewal master plan.

He also lamented the deplorable state of the Fire Service headquarters, which currently operates from a temporary zinc shelter.

Following the Housing Ministry, the Fire Service defended its own budget , highlighting   :

Lack of serviceable fire trucks,

Absence of an operational headquarters,

Need for 300 new staff after 10 years without recruitment,

Request for a fire station at the Terminus Market.

The committee approved their capital, recurrent and revenue estimates pending full chamber ratification.

The most intense session came when the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Chairman honourable Plangji Cishak appeared before the committee.

Plangji emphasized the division between   :

Capital expenditure (infrastructure, innovation, procurement of materials)

Recurrent costs (salaries, allowances, daily operations)

Reveal that PLASIEC’s biggest challenge, according to him, is the absence of a secure, tamper-proof store for sensitive electoral materials.

“One of the most shocking discoveries when we assumed office was the absence of a strong room for sensitive materials,” he said.

He announced two major innovations   :

 Impenetrable Materials Store (New)

 Modern Voter Verification Systems (Awaiting Procurement)

“We have sampled devices which will make elections more efficient and restore voter confidence,” he added.

Rounding off the day, Committee Chairman Hon. Dutch Moses gave his assessment.

Moses, who oversees  :

PLASIEC

World Bank agencies

JMDB

Christian & Muslim Pilgrims Boards

…said the biggest problem in the defence sessions remains inconsistencies in figures submitted by MDAs.

“The figures in the documents and the ones presented verbally must match. When they don’t, we consider it a serious problem,” he warned.

On performance rating, he declared :

“Some performed very well.”

“Some performed very poorly.”

“But we encourage them to build on their strengths.”

He also defended MDAs whose errors were due to “typing mistakes,” noting that  :

“When we sit together, we correct them before final approval.”

1. Ministry of Housing & Urban Development

2. Fire Service

3. Muslim Pilgrims Board

4. Christian Pilgrims Board

5. World Bank Agencies

6. PLASIEC (Most consequential appearance of the day)

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State has surged into the spotlight as a prime destination for the Netherlands’ agricultural and development cooperation, following the bold diplomatic push of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

The momentum began in September 2025 when Governor Mutfwang embarked on a strategic visit to the Netherlands, a move that Dutch officials now describe as a “turning point” in bilateral cooperation. 

That visit immediately triggered matchmaking efforts linking Dutch agribusiness firms with stakeholders across Plateau’s agricultural value chains.

The impact of that diplomacy became evident on Monday 24th November 2025 as the Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Mr. Ronald Sonnemans, led a high-level delegation on a courtesy visit to Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

Touching down in Plateau for the first time in 15 years, the Dutch envoy expressed astonishment at the state’s transformation.

 Describing the environment as “refreshing and conducive for investment,” Sonnemans praised Governor Mutfwang’s leadership for repositioning Plateau State as an emerging agricultural powerhouse.

Earlier in the day, Sonnemans visited Plateau’s bustling potato market, where he was particularly struck by the strong involvement of women in wholesale and distribution, supplying not only Nigerian cities but also neighbouring countries.

 He highlighted the state’s “great climate, fantastic soil, and dedicated workforce,” declaring these as natural advantages that make Plateau ideal for deeper Dutch cooperation.

Governor Mutfwang, receiving the delegation, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Netherlands,globally renowned for cutting-edge agricultural innovation.

“We saw a small country with a small population but with a big heart,” he said, recalling his visit to the Netherlands.

 “What we witnessed in terms of agricultural advancement is something we yearn to be part of.”

The Governor outlined two central pillars for collaboration  :

 strengthening the potato value chain and improving the livestock sector. 

He emphasized that Plateau State already possesses the land, favourable climate, and human capacity required to unlock large-scale agricultural value,what had been missing, he said, was political will.

“That political will is now here,” Governor Mutfwang declared. “We are committed to raising the level of collaboration between the government of the Netherlands and the government of Plateau State.”

He further affirmed his resolve to transform Plateau into a competitive agricultural hub capable of attracting international investment, boosting productivity, creating jobs, and securing food systems.

The Dutch delegation included officials from the Consulate-General in Lagos, the Agricultural Office in Accra, the Embassy in Abuja, as well as senior Plateau State Government officials.

With both governments reaffirming their commitment, Plateau State is steadily positioning itself as a model for agricultural innovation, investment, and international cooperation under Governor Mutfwang’s dynamic leadership.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State has surged into the spotlight as a prime destination for the Netherlands’ agricultural and development cooperation, following the bold diplomatic push of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

The momentum began in September 2025 when Governor Mutfwang embarked on a strategic visit to the Netherlands, a move that Dutch officials now describe as a “turning point” in bilateral cooperation. 

That visit immediately triggered matchmaking efforts linking Dutch agribusiness firms with stakeholders across Plateau’s agricultural value chains.

The impact of that diplomacy became evident on Monday 24th November 2025 as the Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Mr. Ronald Sonnemans, led a high-level delegation on a courtesy visit to Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

Touching down in Plateau for the first time in 15 years, the Dutch envoy expressed astonishment at the state’s transformation.

 Describing the environment as “refreshing and conducive for investment,” Sonnemans praised Governor Mutfwang’s leadership for repositioning Plateau State as an emerging agricultural powerhouse.

Earlier in the day, Sonnemans visited Plateau’s bustling potato market, where he was particularly struck by the strong involvement of women in wholesale and distribution, supplying not only Nigerian cities but also neighbouring countries.

 He highlighted the state’s “great climate, fantastic soil, and dedicated workforce,” declaring these as natural advantages that make Plateau ideal for deeper Dutch cooperation.

Governor Mutfwang, receiving the delegation, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Netherlands,globally renowned for cutting-edge agricultural innovation.

“We saw a small country with a small population but with a big heart,” he said, recalling his visit to the Netherlands.

 “What we witnessed in terms of agricultural advancement is something we yearn to be part of.”

The Governor outlined two central pillars for collaboration  :

 strengthening the potato value chain and improving the livestock sector. 

He emphasized that Plateau State already possesses the land, favourable climate, and human capacity required to unlock large-scale agricultural value,what had been missing, he said, was political will.

“That political will is now here,” Governor Mutfwang declared. “We are committed to raising the level of collaboration between the government of the Netherlands and the government of Plateau State.”

He further affirmed his resolve to transform Plateau into a competitive agricultural hub capable of attracting international investment, boosting productivity, creating jobs, and securing food systems.

The Dutch delegation included officials from the Consulate-General in Lagos, the Agricultural Office in Accra, the Embassy in Abuja, as well as senior Plateau State Government officials.

With both governments reaffirming their commitment, Plateau State is steadily positioning itself as a model for agricultural innovation, investment, and international cooperation under Governor Mutfwang’s dynamic leadership.

By, giwa alex, Jos

In a move many observers have described as ill-conceived and politically sponsored, a small collection of individuals claiming to represent the “Immediate Past Elected Councillors Forum of Nigeria” held a press briefing at the NUJ Press Centre Monday 24th November 2025 in Jos, where they attempted to oppose the possibility of Governor Caleb Mutfwang associating with the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The group, led by Hon. Dabit John Dashe, accompanied by Hon. Choji Williams Wusho, issued a statement that analysts say exposed more about the motives of the conveners than about the Governor they sought to attack.

According to multiple attendees, the briefing appeared poorly coordinated, lacking verifiable representation from genuine former councillors,fueling suspicions that the event was stage-managed by political actors with diminishing relevance in Plateau’s evolving landscape.

Speaking during the event, the group attempted to reject any move by Governor Mutfwang to join the APC, insisting he should “remain in PDP.”

However, observers quickly noted that neither the APC leadership nor the Plateau political establishment had issued any invitation to the Governor, making the group’s outburst appear, in the words of one political analyst present, “a solution looking for a problem.”

The group went further to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other APC leaders to reject the Governor.

But political insiders dismissed the move as an attention-seeking venture, noting that none of the leaders mentioned had acknowledged the group or validated their claims.

Their remarks linking the Governor to alleged governance failures were also described as baseless accusations, particularly because the same individuals openly admitted they do not represent current or former councillors, creating internal contradictions that weakened their message.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who has repeatedly maintained that his focus remains on delivering governance rather than partisan cross-carpeting, appears to have been needlessly dragged into a controversy manufactured to create political tension where none exists.

Contrary to the forum’s claims, the Governor has not expressed interest in joining the APC, and sources close to Government House noted that the Governor is “far too occupied with rebuilding Plateau to chase after political drama.”

The group also attempted to distance itself from the “Coalition of Concerned Former APC Councillors and Grassroots Mobilizers (CFACGM),” which had publicly encouraged Mutfwang to join the APC.

But the contradictory claims only deepened doubts about the authenticity of both groups, with many residents describing the entire episode as an unnecessary distraction orchestrated by disgruntled politicians.

In a final twist, the forum went on to endorse President Tinubu for a second term and passed a vote of confidence on the National Chairman of the APC.

Analysts immediately questioned the relevance of such endorsements, given the group’s lack of clear mandate, legitimacy, or constituency.

Journalists who interacted with Hon. Dabit observed that his insistence that the Governor is “not qualified” to join the APC was personal opinion dressed as party policy, further highlighting the lack of authority behind the press briefing.

For many Plateau residents, the entire event has been seen as a politically sponsored show of frustration, rather than a structured, meaningful intervention in the state’s political discourse.

Meanwhile, Governor Mutfwang continues to receive commendation for his efforts to stabilize governance, rebuild infrastructure, and restore confidence in Plateau State.

Our Reporter

The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed the killing of five officers and the injury of two others after a tactical patrol team was ambushed in Sabon Sara village, Darazo Local Government Area.

On 22 November 2025 at about 11:30 a.m., a combined team of officers from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), 10 PMF Bauchi, Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU), and the State Intelligence Department (SID) departed on an intelligence-led visibility patrol to prevent and manage farmer–herder conflict around Sabon Sara village.

At 12:40 p.m., a Good Samaritan alerted the Command that the patrol team had been ambushed by unidentified Fulani youths. The officers came under heavy gunfire, triggering a fierce shootout in which an unspecified number of the attackers were neutralized.

The ambush resulted in the deaths of the following personnel  :

1. DSP Ahmad Muhammad (SID)

2. ASP Mustapha Muhammad (10 PMF)

3. Inspector Amarhel Yunusa (10 PMF)

4. Inspector Idris Ahmed (10 PMF)

5. Corporal Isah Muazu (AKU)

Two other officers sustained injuries during the attack   :

1. Inspector Isah Musa (SID)

2. Inspector Yusuf Gambo (SID)

Immediately after receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer, SP Auwalu Ilu, led a reinforcement team to the scene.

 The injured officers were rescued and taken to the General Hospital in Darazo for treatment, while the remains of the fallen officers were deposited at the hospital morgue.

Police authorities say an intensive hunt is underway to track down the perpetrators within and around the area. The Command vowed that those behind the deadly ambush will be brought to justice.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment and extended condolences to the families of the deceased officers. 

He assured the public that despite the challenges, the Command remains committed, fierce, and relentless in protecting the lives and property of Bauchi residents.

Our Reporter

The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed the killing of five officers and the injury of two others after a tactical patrol team was ambushed in Sabon Sara village, Darazo Local Government Area.

On 22 November 2025 at about 11:30 a.m., a combined team of officers from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), 10 PMF Bauchi, Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU), and the State Intelligence Department (SID) departed on an intelligence-led visibility patrol to prevent and manage farmer–herder conflict around Sabon Sara village.

At 12:40 p.m., a Good Samaritan alerted the Command that the patrol team had been ambushed by unidentified Fulani youths. The officers came under heavy gunfire, triggering a fierce shootout in which an unspecified number of the attackers were neutralized.

The ambush resulted in the deaths of the following personnel  :

1. DSP Ahmad Muhammad (SID)

2. ASP Mustapha Muhammad (10 PMF)

3. Inspector Amarhel Yunusa (10 PMF)

4. Inspector Idris Ahmed (10 PMF)

5. Corporal Isah Muazu (AKU)

Two other officers sustained injuries during the attack   :

1. Inspector Isah Musa (SID)

2. Inspector Yusuf Gambo (SID)

Immediately after receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer, SP Auwalu Ilu, led a reinforcement team to the scene.

 The injured officers were rescued and taken to the General Hospital in Darazo for treatment, while the remains of the fallen officers were deposited at the hospital morgue.

Police authorities say an intensive hunt is underway to track down the perpetrators within and around the area. The Command vowed that those behind the deadly ambush will be brought to justice.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment and extended condolences to the families of the deceased officers. 

He assured the public that despite the challenges, the Command remains committed, fierce, and relentless in protecting the lives and property of Bauchi residents.

Our Reporter

 In a dramatic and urgent move, the Bauchi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all schools across the state following growing security concerns threatening students, teachers, and learning communities.

The directive,which affects all primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, including federal and private schools,was announced on Monday after what officials describe as intense consultations and mounting intelligence reports indicating potential risks to public safety.

According to the official statement issued by Jalaludeen Usman, the Information and Public Relations Officer of the Bauchi State Ministry of Education, the government was forced to take the decisive step in order to safeguard lives amid rising fears over student safety.

Usman explained that the government fully recognizes the inconvenience the sudden shutdown may cause for families and school operators. However, he emphasized that the security of children remains a “moral responsibility of the highest order.”

He noted that every child in Bauchi State deserves to learn in an environment that is secure, stable, and free from fear, adding that the government could not watch unfolding threats escalate without decisive action.

In his statement, Usman called on parents, guardians, and school proprietors not to panic, urging them to remain calm and cooperative while authorities work around the clock to address vulnerabilities.

He assured residents that the Bauchi State Government is collaborating closely with security agencies to ensure that normal academic activities resume as soon as safety can be guaranteed.

Usman further appealed to the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information that could help prevent security breaches, stressing the importance of community involvement during such sensitive periods.

The government promised to release further updates as the situation evolves, while advising residents to rely on official channels for accurate information.

By giwa  alex , Jos

Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb  Mutfwang, on Sunday 23rd November 2025, rekindled national hope with a compelling message of faith, responsibility, and transformation, declaring that Nigeria will undoubtedly reclaim its greatness despite present challenges.

The Governor delivered this stirring message at the Chapel of Salvation, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, where he served as Guest Speaker during the send-forth service for Christian participants of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47, 2025.

Addressing the congregation on the theme “Agents of Transformation” and drawing from 2 Corinthians 4:16–21, Governor Mutfwang emphasized that Christians must model true ambassadorship of Christ by maintaining constant fellowship with God through prayer and obedience. 

He explained that while Nigeria is not yet where it ought to be, God is raising faithful agents across the nation who will champion national renewal.

The Governor congratulated the soon-to-be mni recipients and reminded them that the prestigious title comes with an obligation to confront Nigeria’s complex governance and development challenges. 

He urged them to deploy the insights gained at NIPSS with purpose and integrity, strengthening institutions and contributing selflessly to nation-building.

Governor Mutfwang also underscored the distinctiveness of Christianity, which he described as God’s deliberate mission to reach humanity,unlike religions that represent humanity’s search for God. 

He stressed that effective reconciliation of others to God begins with personal reconciliation, charging the participants to serve as true beacons of transformation.

Chairman of the Chapel Council, Pastor Engr. Davou Gyang, noted that the send-forth also doubled as a commissioning service, marking the participants’ readiness to serve as instruments of positive change.

 He commended their devotion to prayer and highlighted the Chapel’s remarkable legacy,built by General T.Y. Danjuma, commissioned by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and graced over the years by leaders including former Governor Jonah David Jang and Governor Mutfwang.

Speaking on behalf of the Christian participants, Co-Coordinator Brig. Gen. Stephen Onuchukwu praised Governor Mutfwang for the visible transformation taking place in Plateau State. 

 “when the righteous are on the throne, the people rejoice,” affirming that the Governor’s leadership has brought renewed hope, justice, and developmental energy to the state. 

He assured that the light they have received at NIPSS will guide their future service to Nigeria.

The Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, was represented at the thanksgiving service.

By, giwa  alex , Jos

A renewed call for harmony echoed across Plateau State on Sunday 23rd November 2025,as stakeholders from government, academia, civil society, media, and the grassroots converged at the Usiju World Event Centre, Apollo Crescent, for a Peace Summit and public presentation of Bello Lukman’s new book, “Nigeria  : The Giant In The Mirror.”

The event, held on 23rd November 2025, blended sober reflection with renewed optimism as conversations spanned leadership failures, insecurity, the ethics of coexistence, and the timeless value of peace.

Represented by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb  Mutfwang, reassured citizens of government’s commitment to safeguarding lives,especially following the recent precautionary closure of schools statewide.

He appealed to parents to remain calm, noting that the decision was informed by rising national security alerts  :

“We felt it necessary to take proactive steps to ensure our children’s safety. 

Once security agencies confirm the situation is stable, schools will reopen immediately.”

He urged citizens to sustain support for government-led peacebuilding efforts, describing the measure as temporary but essential.

The Director of Security, Government House, and other top officials emphasized peace as the bedrock of all human and societal progress.

 “Once there is no peace, society descends into chaos. But with peace, education thrives, business prospers, and communities flourish. Peace begins with every individual.”

Mr. Luka Pampe, a public commentator and book reviewer, delivered a thorough chapter-by-chapter critique of the 185-page, five-chapter publication. 

He said the approached the task “as if preparing for a project defence,” highlighting key themes including   :

Historical and contemporary leadership failures.

The roots of insecurity and the exploitation of national weakness.

Nigeria’s self-contradiction as ‘the giant’ struggling with internal fragility.

The need for responsible governance and informed citizenship.

Referring to leadership crises, he cited reformist thinkers like Kwame Nkrumah while recalling the unresolved contradictions that led to the 1966 coup and today’s governance tensions.

Broadcaster and political analyst Bello Lukman, the book’s author, said the summit was conceived as a platform for unity,bringing together Berom, Hausa, Fulani, and other communities to symbolically reaffirm their commitment to peaceful coexistence.

Explaining why his book focuses on Nigeria, he said   :

“I talk about Nigeria every day. But spoken words vanish; documentation preserves knowledge for posterity. This book is a reference point.”

He pledged to personally sponsor billboards across Plateau carrying peace messages  :

“If that is what I must do to contribute to peace, I will do it.”

Guest Speaker, Professor Chris Paja, delivered a compelling lecture titled One Plateau, One People  : Advancing Dialogue and Reconciliation. He spoke of love, humanity, and unity beyond religious and ethnic lines.

Narrating a personal near-death experience in a road accident, he observed   :

“Those who rescued me were people I never knew,neither Christians nor Muslims in that moment, but simply human beings. That is the power of humanity.”

He urged Plateau citizens to judge one another not by identity but by character  :

“When I see you, I should see my brother or sister,not someone to fear. Peace is the bloodline of human existence.”

The event drew an impressive crowd, including  :

Representatives of the Plateau State Governor.

Commissioner for Information and Communication.

Director of Security, Government House.

Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly.

Academics, traditional leaders, civil society activists, youth leaders, and media professionals.

The high point of the gathering was the conferment of Peace Awards on deserving personalities for their contributions to unity, dialogue, and community stability across the state.

By,giwa alex, Jos.

Plateau State stepped boldly onto the world economic stage on Saturday as Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang embarked on a series of high-stakes investment engagements at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

From his warm reception by officials of the Nigeria High Commission and the South African government, the Governor immediately set to work, advancing Plateau’s economic narrative before strategic global players.

Governor Mutfwang began his mission at the Investment Breakfast Dialogue jointly hosted by the Nigeria High Commission, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), and the MTN Group.

Here, he held direct talks with global investors in mining, agriculture, energy, digital technology, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, presenting Plateau’s strategic development plan and signaling the State’s readiness for transformative, mutually beneficial partnerships.

The Governor later engaged in focused discussions with   :

MTN Group President & CEO,

Executive Secretary of NIPC, Ms. Aisha Rimi,

President/CEO of Africa Finance Corporation, Mr. Samaila Zubairu.

These interactions centered on unlocking new investment windows across key sectors , from mining and agro-processing to ICT, energy, and manufacturing.

Governor Mutfwang highlighted Plateau’s comparative advantages :

 vast mineral deposits, rich agricultural soil, a thriving tourism corridor, a young productive population, and expanding renewable-energy potential.

He emphasized his administration’s ongoing reforms anchored on transparency, governance efficiency, regulatory clarity, and infrastructure renewal , measures designed to reassure investors and deepen private-sector participation.

A pivotal meeting followed with the leadership of South Africa’s leading precious-metal refinery, Precious Metals Tswane (PMT).

The talks explored PMT’s expansion into Nigeria, with Governor Mutfwang showcasing Plateau State as the most strategic and economically viable destination for high-value mineral processing and investment.

Rounding off the day, the Governor joined Nigeria’s delegation on a technical tour of a metal-processing plant in Johannesburg.

 The visit exposed him to advanced beneficiation techniques and global industrial standards.

He stressed that Plateau’s ambition goes beyond mining ,the State aims to build a competitive processing and manufacturing hub that creates jobs, uplifts host communities, and positions Plateau as a national leader in mineral-based value chains.

Our Reporter.

The Plateau State College of Nursing Sciences, Vom, on Saturday 22nd November 2025 lit up the Old JUTH premises with a colourful graduation ceremony that produced 125 newly qualified diploma nurses from the School of Nursing, Jos Campus ,a milestone widely celebrated as another product of Governor Caleb  Mutfwang’s sweeping reforms in the state’s health education sector.

Families, lecturers, retirees and invited guests converged early at the venue, setting a warm, celebratory tone as the 2025 Set 71 and RM candidates prepared to receive their diplomas after three intense years of academic, clinical and community training.

Representing the Provost, Bako Danlami Sambo (FWACN), the Director of the School of Nursing Jos Campus, Mrs. Kaneng Mary, declared the day “a testimony of resilience, discipline and the rising standard of nursing education in Plateau State,” as she welcomed the audience with heartfelt appreciation.

In his message delivered through the Director, the Provost applauded the graduates for enduring “pruning, pressure and sacrifice,” noting with pride that the set posted an outstanding 91% success rate , a reflection of the College’s strengthened academic standards and staff commitment.

He celebrated both academic and non-academic staff for their guidance through demanding coursework, repeated postings, sleepless nights and examinations.

The Provost then paid special tribute to Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb  Mutfwang, whose unwavering support, he said, has transformed the College into one of Nigeria’s most competitive nursing institutions.

According to him, the Governor’s strategic interventions — improved infrastructure, enhanced staffing, accreditation support and boosted welfare ,have elevated the learning environment across all campuses and enabled the expansion of key programmes including Basic Nursing, Basic Midwifery, ND/HND Nursing and Post-Basic Nursing.

Guest speaker Mr. Tongdima J. Luka delivered a spiritually uplifting sermon, urging the graduates to carry compassion into every ward, theatre, hospital and community they will serve.

Quoting Colossians 3:14, he reminded them that “love binds all in perfect harmony,” praying that God strengthens them in emergencies, burnout and emotional strain.

Speaking on behalf of her colleagues, class representative Aisha Mbaya Zakaria (Set 41) described their journey as “challenging but transformative,” recalling how they arrived as novices but are leaving as registered nurses forged by unity, resilience and purpose.

She thanked the Provost, lecturers, coordinators and management for creating a disciplined and excellence-driven learning environment.

Goodwill messages from parents , including Fadima Isah Adam, Mrs. Naomi Nandang and Alfa Ayuba , poured in as they praised the College for molding their children into competent professionals.

They encouraged the graduates to pursue higher qualifications such as the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nursing and prayed for the continued growth of the institution.

With its longstanding reputation as one of Northern Nigeria’s oldest health institutions, the Plateau State College of Nursing Sciences, Vom continues to drive excellence through programmes such as  :

Basic Midwifery Programme

Post-Basic Nursing Programme

The College remains committed to strengthening the health workforce in the state and across Nigeria.

In his closing remarks, the Provost charged the 125 graduates to practice with integrity and compassion.

“Go into the world with skill, compassion and dedication. Let the values we taught you guide every step of your practice,” he said.

By, giwa alex , Jos

Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Saturday 22nd November 2025, extended warm and profound felicitations to former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and incumbent Special Adviser on Political Affairs, Rt. Hon. Istifanus Caleb Mwansat, as he marked his birthday.

The goodwill message was conveyed in a statement dated 22nd November 2025 and signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, who made it available to GNews.

Governor Mutfwang began by tracing Mwansat’s remarkable rise through public service, recalling his early contributions to governance and the defining moments that shaped his leadership journey. 

He paid special tribute to Mwansat’s historic tenure as Speaker, a period that ushered in far-reaching legislative reforms and strengthened institutional frameworks across Plateau State.

According to the Governor, Mwansat’s strategic insight, bold decision-making, and capacity for unifying diverse political interests not only transformed legislative operations but also laid the groundwork for today’s governance structure. 

He emphasized that the legacy of the former Speaker continues to influence policy direction and democratic practice in the state.

Governor Mutfwang also highlighted Mwansat’s exemplary virtues,humility, empathy, integrity, and devotion to justice and fairness,qualities he described as the hallmarks of true leadership.

 These attributes, he noted, have earned the celebrant a revered place in Plateau’s political history.

Speaking on his current role as Special Adviser on Political Affairs, the Governor urged Mwansat to sustain his wealth of experience in strengthening political stability, promoting peaceful coexistence, and deepening democratic values in the state.

On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang congratulated Rt. Hon. Mwansat and prayed for divine wisdom, robust health, and renewed strength as he continues to contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious Plateau.

By,Musa Jankada, Jalingo

In a swift move to safeguard students across Taraba State, the government has ordered the immediate closure of all boarding facilities in both public and private secondary schools.

The directive, announced on Saturday 22nd November 2025 in Jalingo, followed heightened concerns over nationwide insecurity and the growing trend of student abductions in states such as Kebbi and Niger.

The intervention began with security reports highlighting that boarding students had increasingly become prime targets for bandits.

 These past incidents,especially the high-profile kidnappings in the North-West,prompted Taraba authorities to act decisively.

According to the statement signed by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin, Governor  Agbu Kefas mandated an immediate “deboarding” of all secondary schools to prevent similar attacks within the state.

Dr. Godwin explained that current conditions made it unsafe to keep students in hostels, stressing that all schools must operate strictly as day institutions until further notice.

 She directed principals and proprietors to release their boarding students without delay.

The statement was also circulated to the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Post Primary Schools Management Board, as well as the chairmen of APSON and NAPPS, signaling urgent compliance across all educational bodies.

As insecurity continues to ripple through the country, Taraba’s decisive step positions student safety at the forefront,reflecting a precautionary stance driven by unfolding realities in neighbouring states.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Prophet Isa El-Buba has unveiled plans for a major peaceful walk slated for November 29 in the heart of Jos, Plateau State,an exercise he describes as a moral duty to challenge injustice and revive national hope.

The movement, announced earlier in the week, traces its motivation to the growing silent suffering across the country. El-Buba stated that he would be stepping onto the streets

 “not in anger, but in conviction,” signalling a deliberate shift from frustration to purposeful civic action.

According to the schedule, participants are to assemble at the Secretariat Flyover by 9:00 AM sharp, where the procession will begin. 

In line with the walk’s symbolic undertone, citizens have been encouraged to dress in black T-shirts, or white attire complemented with a green scarf or cap, reflecting mourning, purity, and the resilience of the Nigerian spirit.

As preparations intensify, the cleric lamented Nigeria’s present condition, describing the nation as “wounded,” 

yet firmly expressing hope that “she will not bleed forever.” His message continues to resonate with many who see the walk as a non-violent platform for truth-telling and national healing.

El-Buba reaffirmed the central purpose of the demonstration: standing against injustice, rejecting violence, and amplifying the collective pain of communities across the nation. “We will stand.

 We will speak. We will keep moving until freedom breaks through,” he declared, calling on Nigerians who share this conviction to walk with him.

With the date drawing near, Jos braces for a defining moment of peaceful civic awakening,one driven by conviction, unity, and the quest for a freer, just, and healed Nigeria.