The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has hosted the Forum of Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Secretaries to the Government of States across the country in Jos, Wednesday September 17, 2025 as they converge for their Second Quarter meeting since the President Tinubu led administration came on board.
Declaring the forum open, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, set the tone for the gathering themed “Understanding the Dynamics and the Roles and Functions of Secretaries to the Government of States.”
“There is no gainsaying that the Secretary to the Government is the engine room of all government operations,” Senator Akume stated.
“At the heart of our responsibilities are policy coordination, cabinet affairs management, intergovernmental and inter-ministerial coordination, institutional memory, and continuity in strategic advisory roles.”
Underscoring the need for innovation in governance, he charged his colleagues to adapt to emerging realities :
“The complexity of governance today demands that we embrace digital tools for tracking, analysis, and communication.
Citizens are now more enlightened, connected, and more demanding, and as such, our policies must reflect transparency, responsiveness, and inclusivity.”
Senator Akume further emphasized the SGF’s duty in safeguarding national interest, urging the forum to play proactive roles in security coordination, harmonized policy implementation, and sub-national alignment with the Federal Government’s development agenda.
Hosting the session, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, welcomed delegates warmly while affirming the weight of their office, he described the position of the SGF and SGSs as “a very critical melting pot in the government structure,” stressing that,
“This is an appointment of trust, a sacred responsibility. You must not mislead the chief executive because posterity will judge all the actions or inactions of government.”
Governor Mutfwang further called for unity beyond politics, noting that governance must remain the central focus after elections :
“I therefore believe wholeheartedly in supporting the initiatives of Mr. President under his Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
Governor Mutfwang expressed confidence that the outcomes of the deliberations would strengthen governance delivery nationwide.
The meeting is strategically designed to deepen collaboration and reinforce the SGF and SGS framework as a backbone of effective governance in Nigeria.
In what appears to be a growing storm within the Plateau State political landscape, Rt. Hon. Na’anlong Daniel Gapyil, the recently elected Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, is now at the centre of a brewing legal battle over alleged unpaid professional fees totalling N180 million.
According to information from Reality Newspaper made available to Gnews revealed that
Writ of Summons, marked Suit No : PLD/566/2025, has been filed before the Plateau State High Court by a coalition of legal practitioners who claim to have represented Daniel and other political actors in critical election appeal litigations and post-judgment proceedings at the Court of Appeal between 2023 and 2024.
The Plaintiffs, Martin O. Omohwo Esq., Leo M. Ebi Esq., Gabriel Ofen-Imu Esq., Emmanuel Hassan Esq., Samson Gurumtet Esq., and Wajim S. Aboki Esq. , are suing for themselves and on behalf of unnamed legal colleagues.
According to court documents obtained by journalist, the claimants are seeking to recover legal fees allegedly accrued during multi-party election litigation involving several lawmakers, including the current Speaker.
Also named in the suit are : Hon. Wallangko Sylvester Ibrahim Hon. Dalyop Isaac Gyang Hon. Sunday Mark Na’ah And the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the 5th Defendant.
The suit alleges that between 2023 and 2024, the defendants engaged the services of the claimant lawyers to represent them in several high-profile appellate matters arising from election petition tribunal judgments.
Appeal No.
CA/J/EP/PL/SHA/50/2023 involving Moses Thomas Sule v. INEC, for which the lawyers are demanding N30 million, plus an additional N15 million for a post-judgment motion seeking to set aside the verdict.
Similar legal fee demands of N45 million each are made in connection with three other appeals:
CA/J/EP/PL/SHA/45/2023, CA/J/EP/PL/SHA/58/2023, and CA/J/EP/PL/SHA/51/2023, where the Speaker and other lawmakers were reportedly represented.
Additionally, a N15 million claim is included as cost for prosecuting the current action to recover the said professional fees.
The total sum being sought jointly and severally from the Defendants stands at N195 million, including costs.
Legal Grounds and Reliefs : According to the Particulars of Claim, the lawyers contend that the legal services were rendered in good faith and with full instructions from the Defendants, but that the fees have remained unpaid since 2023 despite repeated demands.
The suit further requests : 10% post-judgment interest on the total sum Full cost of the action
While the matter is still before the court, the suit may raise ethical and political concerns about how public officeholders engage legal services during election disputes.
Although no criminal allegations are made, the fact that the Speaker of the House is the 1st Defendant adds weight to the case.
Legal analysts tell GNews that if proven, such a claim could lead to further scrutiny into how legal costs in post-election matters are managed,particularly where public officeholders and political parties are involved.
Efforts by GNews to reach Rt. Hon. Na’anlong Daniel for comments as of press time were unsuccessful.
No official statement has yet been issued by the Plateau State House of Assembly or the APC in response to the suit.
Worried by the lacklustre performance of the APC in the 2023 elections in Plateau South and the need to return the party to its winning ways, Sen. Victor Rampyal Lar has embarked on an aggressive voter’s registration advocacy tour of all districts in the six local government areas in the zone, where he made a strong case for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Senator Lar kick-started the tour with visits across the four districts of Mikang Local Government Area on Wednesday, 10th September, 2025 where he met with party executives, former chairmen, and LGA leaders.
The rally demonstrated his clear vision for the future, showcasing his capacity to lead with focus, responsibility and inclusivity.
During his engagements, Senator Lar encouraged party executives and faithful to prioritize voter registration as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
He emphasized that registering and obtaining voters’ cards remains critical to strengthening democracy and ensuring effective participation in governance.
Senator Lar expressed confidence in the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels comes 2027; noting, however, that this victory can only be guaranteed if members align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.
He further cautioned against the tradition of supporting politicians with heavy financial warchest, rather than tested leaders whose commitment to their constituents are flawless.
Senator Lar also appreciated the resilience and commitment of APC supporters in the zone, encouraging them to remain steadfast as they anticipate greater opportunities for growth and development.
Party stakeholders applauded his visit. Mrs. Vina John, Ward A Women Leader, described Senator Lar as the “Moses of our time,” highlighting his commitment to uniting party members since his return to the party.
She commended him for identifying with grassroots leaders and pledged continued support.
Similarly, Naanlong David and Elias Wusbok praised him for his consistent love and encouragement, while Dubup Hoonlong and Nanbyen Clement from Garkawa expressed confidence in his leadership.
The event drew a large turnout of party executives, former chairmen, and LGA leaders across the four districts of Mikang, reaffirming Senator Lar’s influence and acceptance at the grassroots level.
Day two of the advocacy tour saw Senator Victor Lar and his entourage visit Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area.
Sen. Lar started the tour with a visit to IDP camp to empathize with the victims of the recent attack at Teng community, where he sympathized with the IDPs over the unfortunate incident that befell their community and prayed God to replenish all that were lost in the process. Sen. Lar made a personal donation of five hundred thousand Naira to the IDPs.
The team undertook a courtesy call on the Long Doemak, Miskagam Cosmos Ndelong Dakiap.
The monarch appreciated the Senator for being sensitive to the fears, yearnings, plight and aspirations of the people, noting that this was common with Sen Lar when he represented the people of the southern zone in the Senate.
From Doemak, the entourage headed to Kwalla – Namu – kwande, then Kurgwi, where interactive sessions were held with party executives and stakeholders, strategizing how best to restore the party to its strong footing, as it were prior to the 2023 elections.
The APC Chairman in Qua’an-Pan LGA, Alhaji Haruna jibrin, appreciated the advocacy tour and promised to work in synergy with Sen. Lar and other well meaning party stalwarts to advance the fortunes of APC in the area.
Mr Tuamlong Nshe Leo, Chairman Forum of APC chairmen was full of praises to Sen. Lar for initiating activities that keeps the party alive in the zone since his return to the APC fold in February, 2025.
Similarly, the Kwa Women leader, Hajiya Hapsatu Isa Bamusha eulogized Sen. Lar for his constant engagements in the party that revives it from docility.
Wase was next, toured on Friday 12th September, 2025 where Sen. Lar met with executives of the party in the 12 federal wards of the LGA.
Starting from Bashar Gaji, Yalung and Kampani In Bashar,
the LGA Youth Leader, Alhaji Garba Mohhamed appreciated the visit of Sen Lar and assured of his total support.
Also, the Gudus Ward chairman beat drums of total support for Senator Victor Lar.
Ismaila Musa, the Ward Youth leader lauded the resilience of Sen. Lar and his tremendous achievements during his tenure as Senator representing Plateau South from 2011 to 2015, expressing optimism that if elected in 2027, Sen. Lar would replicate even greater feats than his previous record of achievements.
During the engagement proper, Sen. Lar pointed the importance of the Voter’s card, calling it ‘the weapon of war and weapon of victory’, stressing the disadvantages of low voter registration to include amongst other things, poor patronage and merger of already created polling units.
The mobilizer par excellence in Sen Lar came to the fore when he coined the slogan, “One official, one new voter per week”.
This was a slogan that resonated at all district engagements. This, in summary, meant that each party official resolved to lead one fresh voter every week.
The entourage moved to Lamba District, where they interfaced with three wards EXCO: Wase Tofa, Saluwe and Yola Wokat.
The forum chairman, Garba Mohammed, identified with Sen Lar and pledged unwavering support for him.
It was a warmth reception and more like a homecoming for Sen. Victor Lar and his entourage at Kadarko District, comprising Kumbur, Kumbwang, Mavo and Kadarko Wards.
The interface was set rolling with the opening prayer said by the State Deputy Organizing Secretary. Sen. Lar informed the visibly elated party officials and critical stakeholders that the advocacy visit across the four district of Wase LGA, like every other district in the Senatorial zone, was to interface with party faithfuls and ensure engagements within the party.
Like in all the places visited, he emphasised on the importance of voters’ registration going on across the country and implored those who have attained the requisite age to get registered.
Sen. Lar further sought their support and cooperation, as he throws his hat in the ring for the Plateau South Senatorial seat comes 2027.
In continuation of his advocacy tour, Sen. Victor Lar was in Shendam LGA, the headquarters of Southern zone on Saturday 13th September, 2025 where he toured the four districts in the area: Shendam, Dokan-Tofa, Dorok and Derteng.
It was a fruitful interaction with partyn stalwarts in the areas visited, starting from Yelwa ward.
Senator Lar was relentless in his call to party executives to encourage people in their domain to bolster their voting strength by taking advantage of the ongoing continuous voter registration to ensure eligible persons who have attained the age got registered.
He reaffirmed his confidence in the APC to come out stronger from the setback of 2023 and emerge victorious in the forthcoming 2027 elections.
As always, he charged the people to support responsible, responsive and visionary leaders in future elections, while appreciating APC faithfuls for the support and goodwill enjoyed thus far.
Stateholder Musa Aboki and women leader, Nandril yakubu of Kurumbuk ward B. separately described Senator Lar as a visionary leader who displays strong commitment in all his endeavors. The women leader encourage Senator to engage more women in his political activities
Mr Paul Aboki, Chairman of APC Chairmen’s Forum did not mince words in eulogizing Sen. Victor Lar’s engaging brand of politics that centres on reaching out to the downtrodden when it matters most. Sunday Anthony of Yelwa ward encouraged Lar to continue to do good to all manner of people, as same shall be replicated to him.
He advised the people to eschew primordial sentiments in the next election and vote people with tested records of service delivery.
Long Menkat of Shimankar admonished Senator Lar to continue to work hard in actualizing his 2027 aspiration and to never cease to seek God’s divine direction and guidance in pursuing same.
Party executives, former chairman and LGA leaders across the districts have expressed confidence in Lar’s leadership prowess and promise to give him their full support.
Climax of the Shendam tour was the endorsement of Senator Victor Lar’s candidacy by the Shendam branch of Piapung Youth Development Association, who vowed to unflinchingly support and vote for him.
In Langtang North LGA, the interface was decentralized into five locations; Kukwar, Dadur, Pil-Gani, VIP Lodge and Zamko.
The three federal wards in Gazum District: Warok, Funyallang and Kwallak wards were hosted at Kukwar. Ward EXCO from the three federal wards in Bwarat District :
Jat, Kwanpe and Reak Wards were hosted at Mamzum Hotel Dadur. The three wards in Gani District, comprising Pil-Gani, Keller and Pishe-Yashi Wards were hosted at Gani Development College.
Lipchok, Pajat and Kuffen Federal Wards Exco were hosted at VIP Lodge Langtang, while Nyer and Zamko/Mban federal wards Exco were hosted at Primary school Zamko.
In all of the locations visited, the same massage was re-echoed, hammering on the need to bolster the voting strength of the various communities by ensuring every eligible voter gets registered to be able to exercise their franchise and participate the governance process by voting and being voted for.
Sen. Lar emphasised on the need for every Exco member to ensure they encourage at least one person to get registered in one week, throughout the duration of the voter registration exercise.
Speakers at the various locations appreciated Sen. Lar for the initiative, expressing unanimity in their support for his Senatorial candidacy comes 2027.
Spokespersons for the Ward Chairmen, women leaders, Youth leaders and persons with disabilities in all the places visited endorsed Senator Lar and promised to work relentlessly for his success at the party primary and the election proper, citing his political antecedents of robust engagement of party structures in governance, as his most unique selling point.
The party officials lamented the current situation were party structures are being used as mere ladders by election seekers to board the plane and later dumped at the tarmac, only to be remembered when the next round of elections beckons.
The Langtang North APC Chairman, Hon. Mamzum Zitta was present at all the locations visited.
Underscoring his presence throughout the tour, Hon Mamzum maintains that as the gatekeeper to the APC in the area, it was only right for him to open the doors to the various wards for any politician seeking to interface with his members.
He urged the party officials to use their tongue to count their teeth in supporting candidates to be fielded by the party in the 2027 elections.
The Ward Chairman of Warok was full of praises to Sen. Lar, revealing that since they were elected there have never been such kind of visit by any party leader, highlighting his commitment to uniting party members.
He commended Lar for identifying with grassroots leaders and pledged continued support.
In Bwarat District, Mr Lohnan Lar, the Chairman of Reak ward was full of kind words to Sen. Lar for his consistent love and encouragement, while in Gani District, Mr Nanvyap Gaba, the ward Chairman of Pil-Gani and Mrs Linda Nimmyel, the Chairlady of pishe/yashi Ward expressed confidence in Sen. Lar’s leadership prowess.
In Kuffen District, Mr Oscar Ladong, the Pajat Ward Chairman praised Sen Victor Lar, describing him as a leader and a pillar of hope for the party because since his return to the APC, there have been awakening in the party.
The interface drew large turnout of party officials across Langtang north, reaffirming Senator Lar’s dedication, commitment and acceptance at the grassroots level.
The voters’ registration advocacy ended with a tour of Langtang South LGA partitioned into three locations of Turaki, Dadinkowa and Mabudi.
At the various locations, Sen. Lar emphasised the imperative of registering and obtaining the voters’ card as a veritable tool for exercising one’s franchise and participating in governance, thereby charging all eligible persons to do the needful.
The LGA party Chairman, Mr Nandul, expressed a heartfelt gratitude to Sen. Victor Lar for traversing the nooks and crannies of Langtang South on such an important mission that aims to add value to the political participation of the people of the area.
He stressed that voter’s card is a powerful weapon that translates support for candidates into electoral victory, culminating in the provision of democratic dividends to the people.
Spokesperson for the ward party chairmen, Mr Ramyil Mantim commended Sen. Victor Lar for reaching out to Langtang South communities and encouraging them to actively partake in the ongoing continuous voter’s registration.
He promised to mobilize his colleagues at the wards to take the advocacy further down to unit levels.
In a thunderous moment that pierced through the ceremonial calm of the new legal year, Pius Akubo (SAN), speaking on behalf of Nigeria’s Inner Bar, tore into the judiciary with a no-holds-barred address that left judges squirming and the courtroom stunned.
At the official commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year in Plateau State, what began as a routine gathering of the Bench and Bar quickly turned into a national wake-up call,one that may mark the beginning of a judicial reckoning.
“The law gave judges the power to dictate the tune in the courtroom. But now,who is dictating the tune? Certainly not the law.”
With these chilling words, Pius Akubo (SAN) took direct aim at the heart of Nigeria’s judiciary.
Representing the Inner Bar, Akubo declared that the courts have become complicit in the nation’s descent into lawlessness.
“Justice is no longer blind,it’s for sale. And the Bench is enabling it.”
From stunned silence to scattered applause and visible discomfort, the room reacted in real time to what would become one of the most controversial speeches in recent legal memory.
Early 2000s : Judges upheld the law with integrity and conscience.
2010–2020: Political interference infected the Bench; controversial judgments became the norm.
2021-2024 : The age of “gift-taking judges” and deliberate delay tactics,justice became a commodity.
“Corrupt lawyers and compromised judges now collaborate to kill justice,” Akubo declared.
He called out what many have whispered for years: “Cash-and-carry” justice, endless adjournment, and a system rigged in favor of the powerful and wealthy.
“The judiciary is no longer the last hope of the common man,it’s the hope of whoever can pay the price.”
“Bandits rule the countryside, terrorists own our forests, and kidnappers now walk into cities like kings. Where are the judges? Where is justice?”
He referenced Section 14(2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution :
“The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government”, then scoffed :
“That section is now a sad joke.”
Akubo ended with a blunt, four-point call to action :
-Create State Police immediately for decentralized security.
– Pass the Forest Guards Bill without delay.
-Purge the judiciary of corrupt judges.
– Protect and empower honest judges with the resources they need.
“If the judiciary continues down this path, the people will lose all faith. And when that happens, the rule of law collapses.”
Following Akubo’s bombshell, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association(NBA), Plateau state Chapter Barrister Hassan Leah representing other three branches,delivered a structured response rooted in institutional reform and ethical reawakening.
Said “The Bar and Bench must unite,or the justice system will implode.”
“The legal profession is not just about court appearances. We are guardians of constitutionalism.”
He called on lawyers to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards, urging them to go beyond routine advocacy to serve as agents of social transformation.
The Chairman highlighted the glaring inequality in access to justice, warning :
“Justice delayed is justice denied, but justice inaccessible is equally dangerous.”
Millions of Nigerians remain legally voiceless.
Demanded increased funding for Legal Aid Councils.
Urged all lawyers to embrace Pro- Bono service as a duty,not a favor.
“The right to be heard must never be reserved for the wealthy.”
“Efficiency in our courts can no longer be optional,it is a necessity.”
However pushed for :
Court digitalization
Automation of processes
Proper case management systems
Continuous training for judges and court staff
“Judicial ethics must be upheld at all times. Without trust in the judiciary, democracy itself collapses.”
Called for better welfare for judicial officers.
Emphasized courage and impartiality in judicial conduct.
Urged government to invest in court infrastructure.
However closed with a Biblical charge from Isaiah 33:22 :
“For the Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King; it is He who will save us.”
While Akubo (SAN), lit the match, the NBA Plateau Chairman laid down the blueprint. One demanded a purge; the other, a transformation.
What is clear : The Nigerian legal system can no longer afford business as usual.
Will this be remembered as the moment the judiciary turned around,or the day the final gavel fell on public trust?
In a bold and strategic move to tackle the lingering insecurity across Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has announced the recruitment of over 400 fresh personnel into Operation Rainbow, the state’s community-based intelligence and rapid response unit.
This major revelation came during the opening ceremony of the 2025/2026 Legal Year held at the New High Court Complex in Jos on Monday 15th September 2025, where the Governor outlined a multi-pronged approach to restoring peace and strengthening justice delivery.
In his address, Governor Mutfwang didn’t mince words :
“We can no longer sit back while criminals terrorize our communities. We are acting swiftly and decisively.
Over 400 personnel will be recruited into Operation Rainbow to reinforce our security network and restore confidence across Plateau.”
He emphasized that security is the foundation of development, urging citizens to actively support government efforts through vigilance and cooperation :
“If you see something, say something. Security is everyone’s business.”
Governor Mutfwang, a trained lawyer himself, also turned his focus on the welfare of the judiciary, revealing that many retired judges have been owed entitlements for over 10 year, a situation he described as shameful and unacceptable.
“This morning, I directed the Accountant General to release the outstanding balance owed to our retired judges. These heroes of justice must not retire into misery,” he said to loud applause.
He decried reports that sitting judges still use vehicles over a decade old, and promised that the 2026 budget would prioritize the judicial sector’s needs.
Governor Mutfwang commended the Plateau State Judiciary for maintaining integrity and professionalism despite challenges.
Referencing the year-in-review report by P.A. Akubo (SAN), he applauded the judiciary for remaining above public scandal :
“I’ve not heard of any scandal from our judiciary, and I want to thank you for not allowing yourselves to become subjects of public ridicule. Keep it up.”
He reminded the judges of the weight of their office, describing justice as a “three-way traffic,to the victim, to the society, and to the state.”
Drawing from his remarks at a church service earlier , the Governor left the judiciary with a solemn reminder :
“While you sit in judgment over others, remember that one day, you too will stand before your Creator. May you stand with a clear conscience.”
He urged judges to wield their power wisely, with the fear of God and a deep sense of justice, warning that the tools of justice can either “rescue the oppressed or entangle the corrupt.”
As part of his long-term vision, Governor Mutfwang announced that preparations for the 2026 Plateau State Budget will soon commence, and called on the State House of Assembly to give it a smooth passage to enable implementation of key reforms.
“We’re building a Plateau where justice works, where security is firm, and where no servant of the state retires in penury. Let’s join hands and make it happen.”
In closing, Governor Mutfwang sent a resounding call to all Plateau citizens :
“It’s time to renew our commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of our state. Plateau belongs to all of us, and we must rise to defend it , together.”
With decisive security reforms, judicial welfare intervention, and a citizen-first approach, Caleb Mutfwang is proving he’s not just speaking change,he’s executing it.
In a momentous event filled with fanfare, tradition, and calls for transformational leadership, the Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, Hon. Barr. John Kyohroh Christopher, alongside the representative of the Ujah Anaguta, Ugomoh Anabor, took center stage on Sunday, September 14, 2025, as the newly elected executives of the Anaguta Development Association (ADA) were sworn in at the prestigious SANNU Hall, University of Jos.
The highly anticipated event was a vibrant celebration of heritage and hope, drawing in a cross-section of traditional leaders, government officials, and jubilant community members.
Chairman’s Stirring Charge: “You Now Carry the People’s Hopes” In a compelling keynote address that captivated the hall, Hon. Barr. Christopher delivered a rousing charge to the new ADA leadership.
“You are now the custodians of the hopes and aspirations of the Anaguta people,” he declared, urging them to serve with passion, integrity, commitment, and responsibility.
He stressed the need for transparency and development-focused governance, calling on the newly inaugurated officials to rise above politics and deliver lasting impact.
Ujah Anaguta’s Voice :
Unity, Culture, Youth Must Lead the Agenda Representing the revered Ujah Anaguta, Ugomoh Anabor added powerful weight to the event. His speech emphasized unity, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment as the three pillars defining the ADA’s mission moving forward.
“This is not just a position; it is a call to service. Our youth are watching. Our culture must thrive. Our unity must never be compromised,” he stated passionately.
The ceremonial atmosphere was lifted even higher by a spectacular display of traditional Anaguta dances, with colorfully dressed performers thrilling the crowd.
Each beat of the drum and each movement of the dancers told the enduring story of a people rich in culture and resilient in identity.
The electrifying cultural display symbolized not just celebration,but also a reminder of the community’s deep roots and shared heritage.
Notable Figures, Community Pillars Grace Occasion The event witnessed the presence of notable personalities, including Chief Hon. Aminu Zang, the Wazirin Jos North, alongside respected community elders, civil society leaders, and traditional titleholders,all signaling a unified front in support of the new leadership.
The People Speak : Time for Action, Inclusion, and Growth Voices from the crowd echoed high expectations, with many calling for a leadership that is inclusive, accountable, and proactive in solving the pressing social and economic challenges facing the Anaguta community.
The swearing-in of the new ADA executives marks a pivotal chapter in Anaguta history, with the blessings of both political and traditional leaders firmly behind them.
“Echoes Of Endorsement” Is An Insult To Suffering Plateau People
By,Amb. Yohana Margif, Jos
Labour Party’s 2023 Guber Candidate Slams Mutfwang’s Media Team for Playing Politics While People Die in IDP Camps
In what can only be described as a stinging rebuke, Chief Ambassador Yohana Y.D. Margif, the Labour Party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Plateau State, has lambasted the recent article titled “Echoes of Endorsement”, authored by the Director of Press to Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Describing the piece as “insensitive political propaganda at a time of grave human suffering,” Margif did not mince words, calling the write-up “a shameful distraction and a betrayal of the true cries of Plateau’s displaced sons and daughters.”
“While Our People Sleep on Bare Floors in IDP Camps, You Speak of 2027 Endorsements?” Margif Roars.
Margif, visibly disturbed by what he calls “elite indifference wrapped in flowery press releases”, questioned the morality and timing of the article.
“What kind of leadership celebrates endorsements while thousands remain homeless, hungry, and haunted by memories of bloodshed?
Is this the new definition of governance ,staged praises while the people perish?” he asked.
He further decried the publication as an “echo chamber of denial,” stating that the only echoes truly coming from Plateau today are the sobs of displaced children and the silent screams of widowed mothers.
Plateau State has in recent years become a symbol of pain and perseverance — plagued by banditry, ethnic violence, and mass displacement. Amb. Margif reminded readers that many communities in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos, and Mangu still remain unsafe.
“Where are the so-called echoes of development in Gashish? What has changed in Pushit or Ropp? Before you publish poetry in praise of power, visit the IDP camps.
Look into the eyes of the children. Hear their stories. Then ask yourself :
is this the time for endorsement?” he challenged.
Margif Calls for Leadership That Listens, Not One That Dances to Praise-Singers.
The Labour Party chieftain cautioned the Mutfwang administration against mistaking political choreography for genuine public support.
“The voice of the people is the voice of God ,but what voice are you hearing when you ignore the displaced, the grieving, the hungry?
What endorsement can be louder than the silence of those driven from their homes?” he asked.
2027 Will Not Be Decided by Press Statements, But by the People.
Margif urged the government to focus less on 2027 reelection fantasies and more on the immediate humanitarian crisis across Plateau.
“Let every displaced Plateau indigene return home first. Let us rebuild our burnt villages and restore our broken farms.
Then,and only then, can we talk about who deserves the people’s mandate,” he asserted.
“Plateau’s Endorsement Will Come From the Ballot, Not From Bureaucrats”
Amb. Yohana Margif reiterated that political survival in Plateau will not be determined by press-crafted fairy tales, but by tangible results and people-centered governance.
“The fruit of leadership is tasted at the ballot box, not through press endorsements.
The people are watching. The IDPs are counting. 2027 is not for the loudest pen ,but for the cleanest hands.”
“Let’s give him a chance. I believe Dr. Gad Shamaki Peter has come with a difference.”HRH Johnson Jauro Magaji II, Ujah Anaguta
University of Jos Global Alumni Association (UJAA), the Association on Monday 15th September 2025 commissioned its Global Secretariat, unveiled its official logo, and formally inaugurated the office of the Global President.
The ceremony, held at the newly established UJAA Office in Jos, drew distinguished alumni, university leadership, and traditional authorities.
The Logo of the UJAA was officially commissioned by His Royal Highness, Johnson Jauro Magaji II, the Ujah Anaguta, who praised the leadership of the Association for taking bold steps toward institutional visibility and alumni engagement.
While speaking to journalists shortly after the unveiling, the Ujah Anaguta emphasized the need for unity among alumni and offered prayers for the success of the newly inaugurated executive.
“Other executives have done their best, but Dr. Gad Shamaki Peter has come with a difference,” HRH Johnson Jauro Magaji II stated.
“I commend him for engaging the media and taking time to explain the mission of the Association.
Let’s give him and his team a chance.”
Following the logo unveiling, the office of the Global President of UJAA was commissioned by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, who was represented by Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics).
In his remarks, Prof. Amupitan commended the alumni leadership for its renewed vision and reaffirmed the University’s support for alumni-driven initiatives that will benefit both past and current students.
Newly inaugurated Global President of UJAA, Dr. Gad Shamaki Peter, expressed gratitude to the traditional council, university management, and alumni community for their support.
Dr. Shamaki outlined his strategic vision to reposition UJAA as a unifying platform for development, mentorship, and institutional support, stating that the office will remain open to collaboration and innovation.
With the commissioning of the office and logo, stakeholders describe the event as a symbol of renewed commitment and strategic focus for the University of Jos alumni community worldwide.
Alumni are now being urged to rally behind the leadership and contribute actively toward the Association’s success.
The Latin maxim, “Vox populi, vox Dei”, “The Voice of the People is the Voice of God”, has found living expression today in Plateau State.
It captures the collective will and divine force behind the resounding endorsements for the re-election of His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, in 2027.
The sound is not only just loud, but it is deep, steady, and unmistakable; underscoring the true essence of democracy :
The power of the people and their shared conviction on the issue at stake.
The echoes of this endorsement, it must be stated, have reverberated across all the three senatorial districts, cutting through barriers of ethnicity, religion, and political affiliation.
Several groups have spoken with one voice on the endorsement, citing Governor Mutfwang’s inclusive and people-centred leadership as the bedrock of their support.
His visible transformative initiatives, including building rural roads that now link once-forgotten communities, extending electricity to many forgotten darkened villages, and restoring the people’s faith in government have become the visible footprints of a leader walking his talk.
Like wildfire in harmattan, the wave of endorsements began with the Igbo Community Association in Jos. Their recognition of his transparency, accountability, and good governance lit the first torch.
From there, the wild flame spread swiftly to artisans under the Vanguard for the Voice of Reasoning, who applauded his achievements in human capital development and his efforts in rebuilding public trust.
The Middle Belt ethnic nationalities spread across many states took their turn and made a loud and deeper statement with a solemn pledge to rally round Governor Mutfwang come 2027.
The ethnic nationalities with representatives across the Middle Belt states converged in Jos, the capital of Plateau State and passed a vote of confidence and subsequently endorsed Governor Mutfwang for a second term in office.
The group found in Governor Mutfwang a true and genuine leader who has stood with them in their travails.
No governor looking backwards has been as committed to the Middle Beltan tendencies in recent years as Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
Soon, stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau South rose in unison. From all six local governments of the zone, their voices carried one message :
Governor Mutfwang has delivered, and deserves to continue to serve.
The chorus grew louder in Plateau Central, where party leaders, after reviewing the record of the past two years, gave him a vote of confidence.
Having been satisfied with the transformative performance of the People’s Governor, a none partisan group from the Central Senatorial District also rose with one voice and reaffirmed their support for the re-election of Governor Mutfwang in 2027.
They cited Mutfwang’s genuine intervention on road infrastructure that were abandoned for decades without even a request from the communities as reason for their whole-hearted support for his re-election.
Most recently, the political heartbeat of the state, Plateau North added the much needed voice, as former Governors, Ministers, legislators, and influential stakeholders joined the caravan of endorsement.
Even those who were controversially unseated by judicial pronouncements in 2023 stood shoulder to shoulder with him, affirming that, indeed “a child who washes his hands clean dines with elders.”
Also, councilors elected under the PDP from the 325 State electoral wards and the leadership of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Plateau State chapter from the 17 local government areas have also expressed unwavering support to deliver Governor Mutfwang for improving the standard of living of the people of Plateau State.
In a motion which was moved by Executive Chairman of Jos North LGC, Hon. John Kyohroh Christopher, said a lot on the Mutfwang administration as having brought unprecedented transformation to Jos North and the state at large.
It is on account of his outstanding performance since taking over leadership in 2023, that Jos North Local Government formally endorsed Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for a second term in office.
Also, individuals and communities across the state have joined the bandwagon of the endorsement, expressing their kind perception of the Governor Mutfwang’s administration in the last two years in office and revalidating their support for his return in 2027.
A coalition of PDP Groups from Chugwi community in Jos South have come out in large numbers to thank the Governor for his remarkable feat and reassured him of their unreserved support ahead of his re-election.
This is reminiscent of the “Mutfwang Movement” of 2023. Back then, many doubted his ability to reclaim and rebuild Plateau, yet, with the resilience of a mountain and the overwhelming will of the people, he ascended Government House, Rayfield, and proved all doubting Thomases wrong.
Against all odds, he emerged, not by sheer luck, but by the collective spirit of Plateau citizens who believed that “when the people stand as one, no obstacle can break their resolve.”
Governor Mutfwang has certainly not disappointed. Far from taking the people’s trust for granted, he has honoured the social contract he signed with them, not on paper, but in deeds. He has invested in peace-building, healing old wounds of bitterness and fostering unity.
He has expanded road infrastructure, built a more reliable transport system, championed affordable healthcare, driven an agricultural renaissance, promoted education, and placed Plateau firmly back on the tourism map.
All his appointments speak volumes than are in words. By deliberately entrusting sensitive roles to competent youth and women of proven integrity, he has not only expanded the frontiers of inclusivity but also sown seeds for a new generation of leaders.
“If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together”; Governor Mutfwang has chosen to go far, and he is carrying the people with him.
Today, the movement for 2027 is not a mere political campaign; it is a people’s crusade, particularly the common people in rural communities. It is a current too strong to be stemmed, a tide too deep to be turned back.
Its essence is continuity, not the recycling of old habits, but the consolidation of a new trajectory of growth.
The people of Plateau are determined not to let history repeat itself by truncating progress, as it happened in the past.
Instead, they are guarding the foundation already laid, with the wisdom that, “you don’t throw away the water that quenched your thirst.”
The momentum is clear: Plateau is on the march towards a brighter dawn. In villages and communities across the 17 local government areas, testimonies abound :
Roads built where there were none, water flowing where there was drought, health centres revived, schools restored, and farms flourishing again.
These are not promises in the wind; they are tangible realities, the very reasons why several communities line up one after another to endorse Governor Mutfwang for 2027.
Plateau citizens look back at the past two years with gratitude, embrace the present with enthusiasm, and gaze into the future with hope.
They are convinced that “when the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.”
Plateau State is rising again, its light is shining brighter, and its trust in leadership is being rebuilt, stone by stone, step by step, under the stewardship of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
This is more than politics. This is the people’s movement. Mutfwang is Plateau’s vision.
It was a Sunday like no other at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Jos, as Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, stirred hearts and minds with fiery declarations of hope, justice, and sweeping reforms at the official opening of the 2025/2026 Legal Year.
With robes of justice, faith, and the air thick with anticipation, the solemn service was graced by an elite gathering of judicial officers, legal luminaries, clergy, and dignitaries.
But what started as a calm religious gathering quickly transformed into a bold political moment, as Governor Mutfwang took the podium and lit the room aflame with promise.
“The God who has kept us this far will sustain us for the days ahead,” he declared, setting the tone for a message that would rock Plateau’s legal and security landscape.
“When we assumed office, we met a judiciary weighed down by numerous challenges,” he admitted. “Yet, you have remained steadfast, discharging your duties with courage and dignity.”
Amid applause, he announced a long-awaited breakthrough, the payment of outstanding entitlements to retired judges had finally commenced.
“Though the process is ongoing, it has begun — and by God’s grace, it will be completed,” he assured.
In a stern caution to serving judges, Mutfwang reminded them of their sacred duty :
“Judicial discretion used judiciously serves the ends of justice. But discretion abused will weigh heavily on a man’s conscience, and he will not be able to stand before his Creator.”
“By the grace of God, we will soon recruit over 1,000 youths into Operation Rainbow,” he announced to thunderous applause.
This community-based security outfit, once hailed as Plateau’s homegrown shield, is now being revived to push back against the tide of violence.
“They will be posted back to their communities as both the first and last line of defense, complementing conventional security agencies,” Mutfwang explained.
He didn’t mince words when addressing saboteurs of peace : “We must resist those who profit from our pain.
Insecurity has become a business to some ,but not on our watch.”
Governor Mutfwang reminded the congregation that beyond government, the unity of the church and faith in Christ are the strongest forces binding Plateau together.
“The body of Christ is one, and what binds us together is the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross of Calvary,”
He affirmed, thanking the Catholic Bishop of Jos and the parish priest of St. Theresa’s for hosting the sacred occasion.
“Though there may be giants on our way to hinder, by the grace of God, we shall overcome.”
Delivering a powerful homily, Very Rev. Fr. Paul Pam, parish priest of St. Theresa’s, reminded believers that spiritual vibrancy is the true path to peace and purpose.
“True peace anchored in Christ gives hope and direction,” the priest said. “Our leaders need divine guidance to see the hardship around and act.”
He praised Governor Mutfwang for what he called “remarkable interventions across all sectors”, and prayed for divine favor upon his administration.
Justice David Mann, Chief Judge of Plateau State, wrapped up the event by thanking God for sustaining the judiciary through turbulent times and praying for wisdom, protection, and excellence as the new legal year kicks off.
In a powerful show of royal endorsement, the Ujah of Anaguta Nation, His Royal Highness Johnson Joro Magaji, has declared unwavering support for the Plateau State Youth Council (PYC), Jos North Chapter, urging youths to shun political arguments on social media and embrace agriculture and commerce.
The royal father made this declaration over the weekend when the leadership of PYC Jos North paid him a courtesy visit at his private residence in Mazah District.
The delegation, led by PYC Chairman Paul Mancha, sought royal blessings and formally invested HRH Magaji as Patron of PYC Jos North.
The Ujah warmly accepted the role, pledging to stand with the youth council and guide them as a father.
“I accept this honour with all my heart,” HRH Magaji said. “Our youths must begin to look inward.
Agriculture and commerce are the future,not endless arguments about political parties online.”
In a striking message directed at the Plateau youth, the traditional ruler warned against overdependence on government jobs and so-called white-collar employment.
He challenged them to take up the responsibility of defending their land, stressing the importance of self-reliance, sacrifice, and peace-building.
“Government jobs are not for everyone. If we keep waiting for white-collar jobs, we’ll lose our strength. Let’s protect what is ours,our culture, our land, our peace,” he added.
Earlier in the visit, PYC Chairman Paul Mancha praised the monarch for his unifying presence and consistent engagement with young people.
He said the council’s recent peace hike was aimed at promoting unity among youth in Jos North and beyond.
“We’re here because we need your royal guidance. We want peace in Plateau, and we believe the youth must lead that movement,” Mancha said.
Other youth leaders also delivered goodwill messages during the visit Notably, Zang Appolos, Chairman of PYC in Barkin Ladi LGA, expressed admiration for the Jos North leadership and praised the Ujah for always speaking truth to power.
The event ended with prayers, songs of unity, and renewed commitment from the youth to spread the message of peace, development, and self-reliance across Plateau State.
It was a moment of renewed hope for farmers in Taraba on Saturday 13th September 2025 as the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), through its Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), flagged off the distribution of 2025 wet season cassava inputs ,a move hailed as a lifeline for food security and rural prosperity.
Declaring the event open in Jalingo, the Taraba State ,Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Prof. Nicholas Namessan, urged farmers to use the inputs judiciously for improved productivity and better livelihoods.
Represented by Mrs. Sarah Ali, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Namessan did not mince words in warning farmers against selling the inputs.
“Government will not take it lightly with anyone found diverting these inputs. Put them to proper use, boost production, and contribute to national food security,” he cautioned.
Earlier, the State Programme Coordinator of VCDP, Mr. Irimiya Musa, represented by Mr. Bedu Wiza, explained that the programme was strategically designed to enhance agricultural productivity, promote value addition, and transform the lives of smallholder farmers.
He revealed that the inputs, including improved cassava stems, fertilisers, and other vital agro-inputs ,were selected to guarantee higher yield and economic empowerment for farmers.
“With proper application, these inputs will take farmers to greater heights, ensuring agricultural development and rural prosperity,” Musa assured.
Musa praised Governor Agbu Kefas for consistently ensuring prompt counterpart funding, describing it as a strong pillar behind the programme’s success.
Commissioner Namessan and other stakeholders for their unwavering support of the initiative, saying VCDP remains one of the most impactful interventions in Taraba’s rural communities in recent years.
Our correspondent reports that the VCDP currently intervenes in rice and cassava production, processing, and marketing across eight LGAs ,Gassol, Karim-Lamido, Wukari, Ardo-Kola, Takum, Donga, Jalingo, and Bali ,bringing new opportunities to rural farmers and helping Taraba cement its place in Nigeria’s food production map.
The Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (PSUBEB) has strongly debunked a trending social media report accusing its Executive Chairman, Hon. Bldr. Sunday Samuel Amuna, of misconduct and mismanagement.
The viral publication, titled “Unveiling the Alleged Wrongs of Hon. Sunday Samuel : A Call for Urgent Investigation,” alleged salary blockages, financial extortion, favouritism, and other claims against the PSUBEB boss.
But in an official statement signed by the Head of Public Relations and Protocol, Richard Nanpon Jonah, on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, the Board dismissed the allegations as “malicious, politically motivated and an attempt to tarnish the reputation of a man who is transforming basic education on the Plateau.
PSUBEB clarified that salary stoppages only occur after verification exercises reveal absentee staff who abandoned their duty posts for months without permission.
This action, the Board said, is “not punishment but accountability , to safeguard the future of Plateau’s schoolchildren.”
Hon. Amuna inherited a backlog of unindicted staff on assumption of office.
The Board approved induction exercises conducted by Plateau State Polytechnic. Though there was an initial challenge of over-deduction, PSUBEB confirmed that it was cleared before final payment.
The Board explained that a joint PSUBEB/NUT committee initiated a ₦2,000 staff deduction for ID card production to strengthen corporate identity at the LGEAs. The process is ongoing without hitches, debunking insinuations of fraud.
Contrary to allegations, promotion forms were generated by the Board’s personnel department and issued free of charge to staff for photocopying and return.
The Amuna-led administration, with support from the state government and local councils, has been clearing teachers’ promotion backlogs ,a milestone achievement.
PSUBEB labelled this accusation as a “serious falsehood.” Hon. Amuna has never demanded loyalty pledges or financial returns for salary release.
Any forfeitures due to disciplinary issues, the Board insisted, are remitted to government coffers, not to any private account.
Staff rotations, appointments, and demotions are conducted strictly in line with civil service rules.
Those caught with falsified documents were sanctioned appropriately to ensure only deserving staff occupy positions of trust.
The Board maintained that former education secretaries who served meritoriously have been honoured, with some reabsorbed and promoted before retiring. Outstanding entitlements are being resolved on a case-by-case basis.
Hon. Amuna, who came into office with the mantra “Doing Business Unusual,” has driven unprecedented reforms at PSUBEB under the guidance of Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Major strides include:
Renovation and construction of classrooms across all three senatorial zones.
Training and retraining of teachers, particularly in ICT.
Partnerships with development partners like UNICEF, Oando Foundation, and others.
Transparent procurement and consistent monitoring of schools.
Stakeholder engagement through open-door policy.
PSUBEB urged the public to disregard what it called “shadow campaigns by desperate detractors.”
“We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and excellence. Hon. Amuna is focused and undeterred, working hand-in-hand with Governor Mutfwang’s ‘Time is NOW’ administration to reposition basic education as a cornerstone of Plateau’s future,” the statement concluded.
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has joined millions of admirers, well-wishers, and associates to celebrate his dependable Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Ngo Josephine Piyo, on the occasion of her birthday anniversary.
In a warm, glowing message released from Government House, Little Rayfield, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs Dr.Gyang Bere made available to Gnews, Governor Mutfwang extolled the Deputy Governor as a refined democrat, a consummate health practitioner, and a devoted public servant whose exemplary service has left indelible footprints in Plateau’s governance and development.
Describing her as an experienced legislator and seasoned administrator, the Governor hailed her wealth of experience in various spheres of public life, noting that her efforts have continued to align government policies with the aspirations and needs of Plateau citizens.
“Ngo Piyo is a model of humility, wisdom, and vision,” Governor Mutfwang declared.
“Her patriotic spirit, resilience, and leadership have touched countless lives and strengthened the ideals of love, unity, justice, and selfless public service in Plateau State.”
On behalf of his family, the Plateau State Government, and the good people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang wished Ngo Josephine Piyo a joyful, memorable birthday celebration, praying for renewed strength, divine wisdom, good health, and greater impact in purposeful leadership for sustainable development in Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
In a bold and inspiring move, Mrs. Lilian Madaki ,respected publisher of Sawabiya News has declared her intention to contest for the position of Deputy Chairman of the Plateau Publishers Association (PPA), setting the stage for a potentially transformative era for the association.
Known for her fearless journalism, deep sense of integrity, and commitment to media professionalism, Mrs. Madaki is bringing to the race a wealth of experience that spans years of active involvement in news publishing and media advocacy.
Her candidacy is already generating excitement among members of the publishing community, who see her as the right voice to represent the interests of publishers, drive inclusivity, and champion professional ethics within the association.
Speaking shortly after making her declaration, Mrs. Madaki said she is passionate about building a stronger, united PPA that will prioritize capacity building, defend press freedom, and open doors for more women to take active leadership roles in the media space.
“The media is the bedrock of democracy, and as publishers, we must lead by example.
I am offering myself for service to strengthen collaboration among members, expand opportunities for young publishers, and ensure that PPA remains a respected and influential voice on Plateau and beyond,” she stated.
Supporters say Mrs. Madaki’s record of fairness, her ability to network across government and private sectors, and her focus on empowering female voices make her the perfect candidate to serve as Deputy Chairman.
Her emergence, they argue, would not only give PPA a competent administrator but also serve as a bold statement for gender balance in leadership ,encouraging more women to step up and contribute their quota to the media industry.
With her calm but firm approach, Mrs. Madaki has pledged to work hand-in-hand with the incoming executive team to promote transparency, advocate for welfare improvements for members, and push for digital transformation of publishing platforms to meet global standards.
As the elections draw closer, all eyes will be on the Plateau Publishers Association to see if members will rally behind Mrs. Liliana Madaki , the woman many believe can bring a fresh perspective, bridge generational gaps, and inject new energy into the association.
The Zaria Road Stadium, Jos, erupted with renewed hope on Thursday as Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, made a surprise appearance at Plateau United’s training session, a move that instantly boosted morale and reassured fans that brighter days are ahead for the Pride of Plateau.
Standing before the players, officials, and supporters, Governor Mutfwang charged the team to shake off recent setbacks and fight back with renewed energy.
“Do not allow the current challenges to demoralize you,”
He said with authority. “Stay united, work together, and remain consistent in your efforts.
The season is still long, and there is great hope for Plateau United.”
Mutfwang commended the team’s spirited performance in their recent away fixture in Enugu, despite the goalless outcome.
He reminded them that football is full of surprises ,some teams start slow but finish the season as champions.
“You are a talented group,” he said encouragingly. “Conceding goals does not define you.
You wear the badge of Plateau, and thousands of fans believe in you.
The best is yet to come ,by God’s grace, we will fix the teething problems facing this club.”
The Governor went beyond words, reaffirming his administration’s total commitment to the club and promising to meet their needs.
“The government’s support for Plateau United has not changed , we stand by you. And personally, I will add a bonus from my own pocket to encourage you to give your best.”
Mutfwang called on all stakeholders, supporters, and fans to rally around the team, insisting that victory can only be achieved through collective effort.
“Every lover of Plateau United must join hands to support this team,” he charged. “Let’s put away distractions and divisions.
Together, we will celebrate Plateau United’s success at the end of this season.”
Responding, Plateau United captain Albert Hilary thanked the Governor for his rare visit and powerful words of encouragement.
He assured the government and the fans that the team would give their all to make Plateau proud.
Governor Mutfwang didn’t stop there. He also visited Mighty Jets International FC of Jos, where he encouraged the players, led by General Manager Ferdinand Mbum, to prepare with discipline and determination for the coming season.
Capping the day, the Governor moved to Farin Gada Road where he inspected ongoing construction work, assuring market women and traders of his government’s commitment to improving their welfare and boosting their livelihoods through better infrastructure.
Plateau State has witnessed a breakthrough in its quest for a digital economy as Governor Caleb Mutfwang inaugurated the Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) in partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), setting the state on course to become a regional hub for ICT, digital jobs, and innovation.
The historic event took place at the Twin Theater of the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos, where stakeholders, government officials, and tech enthusiasts gathered to celebrate what Governor Mutfwang described as a “turning point in Plateau’s digital future.”
“ICT has been a long-standing priority for us, but with this collaboration, we can now anticipate concrete milestones that will fast-track e-governance, e-commerce, and other ICT-driven opportunities in Plateau State,” the Governor declared amid applause.
Governor Mutfwang commended DBI’s President Mr. David Dasar for facilitating the siting of DBI’s campus in Plateau State, describing the move as a game-changer.
He also acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy for supporting the initiative, pledging total government commitment to ensure success.
“We are eager to see deliverables within the shortest possible time.
Whatever we need to do as a government to make this succeed, we shall do, by the grace of God,” Mutfwang assured.
To drive the vision, Governor Mutfwang unveiled a Joint Technical Working Group made up of : Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, Secretary to the Government of the State,
Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, Commissioner of Science and Technology,
Hon. Grace Shwarta Dongkum, Commissioner of Finance ,
Mr. Dominic Datong, Director General of PICTDA and Mr. Manji Wilson, Chief Technical Adviser to the Governor on Development Partnership, Strategic Linkages, and Diaspora Engagement.
Speaking at the inauguration, DBI President David Dasar revealed that DBI is restructuring into a national digital institute with a statutory mandate, making Plateau a key beneficiary of donor-funded scholarships, advanced ICT training, and international outsourcing opportunities.
Dasar also linked the partnership to the Federal Government’s Talent City Project and the planned fiber optic expansion, describing Plateau as strategically positioned to become a regional center for digital innovation and employment generation.
He urged the Plateau State House of Assembly to fast-track the Nigerian Startup Act, which he called a crucial legal framework for attracting funding and supporting the state’s growing tech ecosystem.
On behalf of the newly inaugurated JTWG, Arc. Samuel Jatau assured the Governor that the team would deliver tangible results swiftly :
“We will do our best to ensure that within the shortest possible time, this partnership becomes a reality,” Jatau pledged.
Earlier in the day, Governor Mutfwang received a delegation from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), supported by the European Union.
The team, led by Dr. Emmanuel Uche, briefed the Governor on the implementation progress of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme in Plateau State.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transparency, Governor Mutfwang said :
“We believe in building strong institutions and capacities so that our successes today can be sustained beyond our administration.
We are determined to do the right things, at the right time, guided by transparency and accountability.”
Dr. Uche commended Plateau’s reform-minded approach, highlighting the three RoLAC pillars : Strengthening criminal justice administration
Improving access to justice for vulnerable groups and
Promoting transparency and accountability in governance
He praised Plateau’s notable progress in criminal justice reforms and access to justice, saying the state is laying a solid foundation for stronger anti-corruption frameworks.
History was made in Zanwra , Nkie Whie Miango District,Bassa Local Government Area,11th September 2025, as Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, officially flagged off the construction of the Workers’ Housing Estate for Civil Servants, describing the project as a testament to his administration’s commitment to restoring dignity, welfare, and productivity for Plateau workers.
In a stirring address, Governor Mutfwang paid glowing tribute to civil servants, acknowledging them as “the engine room of government and the backbone of Plateau State’s development.”
“The welfare of civil servants is at the heart of this administration’s policies,” Mutfwang declared.
“This housing project is not just a campaign promise fulfilled ,it is a statement that we will build not only houses but hope, security, and stability for our workforce.”
He called on workers to embrace transparency, diligence, and patriotism in service delivery, urging them to reciprocate government’s gesture by rededicating themselves to duty.
Mutfwang also emphasized empathy and the government’s responsibility to ease the burdens of workers :
“Government must not only make promises; it must deliver results. Today, we take a major step toward delivering on our pledge to improve the living standards of every Plateau worker.”
The Governor concluded with a call for collaboration among civil servants, local government authorities, and all stakeholders to ensure the success of the project and its timely completion.
Plateau State Head of Service, Mr. Stephen Pam Gadong, hailed the event as a “milestone in the history of Plateau State’s workforce,” assuring civil servants that the government’s commitment goes beyond salaries and office welfare.
“Today’s ground-breaking is not just about bricks and mortar,” Gadong said. “It is about building dignity for the Plateau worker, creating stability for their families, and guaranteeing productivity for our public service.”
He emphasized that affordable housing has been one of the most pressing needs of civil servants and pledged that the Office of the Head of Service would ensure a transparent and equitable allocation process.
“We will work hand-in-hand with relevant agencies to make sure every deserving worker benefits fairly.
This is the new Plateau, one where the public service is empowered to deliver,” he assured.
Gadong also called on civil servants to reciprocate government’s goodwill with loyalty, professionalism, and discipline.
In his welcome address, Plateau State NLC Chairman, Comrade Eugene Manji, described the flag-off as a “defining moment” for labour and welfare advocacy in the state.
He commended Governor Mutfwang for listening to the voice of labour and turning advocacy into action :
“This housing estate is not merely a structure, it is a statement that workers matter, that their welfare is a priority, and that their future is secure.”
Manji urged government to ensure the timely completion of the project and called for supporting infrastructure such as roads, power, and water to make the estate fully functional.
He also charged civil servants to own the process, engage transparently, and remain united until the last unit is delivered.
“Today is the beginning of a new chapter where service is rewarded with dignity. Let us work together to see it through,” he concluded.
The flag-off ceremony drew dignitaries from across the state, including members of the State Executive Council, labour leaders, and traditional rulers.
With this initiative, Governor Mutfwang’s administration continues to position Plateau State as a model of good governance, where the welfare of workers is placed at the centre of policy and action.
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has signed into law a ₦109.7 billion supplementary budget, vowing to channel fresh resources into security, infrastructure, and critical public services to sustain Plateau’s socio-economic revival.
The brief signing ceremony held at Government House, Rayfield, on Wednesday, marked a key milestone for the state as the budget,covering September to December 2025,swiftly scaled through the Plateau State House of Assembly.
Presenting the bill draft, the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Barr. Philemon Daffi, commended the lawmakers for giving the appropriation the “speed and attention it deserved” to keep government activities on course.
Moments after assenting to the bill, Governor Mutfwang declared that security remains the cornerstone of his administration’s developmental agenda, noting that the improved atmosphere in Jos has boosted the hospitality sector with hotels now fully booked.
“We must secure Plateau to secure our future. The peace we are enjoying is attracting more visitors, which is good for business.
Our focus is to sustain this confidence and build on it,” Mutfwang said.
In a major follow-up to the signing, Governor Mutfwang received the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal J. Usman, on a courtesy visit.
The meeting quickly shifted into a strategy session on how to further secure Plateau’s borders.
The Governor urged the Nigerian Air Force to intensify air surveillance and deploy additional platforms to support ground operations in difficult terrains like Mushere, Chakfem, Quanpan, Wase, and Kanam.
“While there are still pockets of concern, the number of visitors to Jos in the past two years shows growing confidence.
We want to keep this momentum by stepping up aerial cover and military presence,” Mutfwang stressed.
Air Vice Marshal Usman, in response, expressed gratitude to the Governor for supporting the Air Force, revealing plans to hold the Air Force Provost Conference in Jos as a deliberate show of confidence in Plateau’s security situation.
“We are here to thank you for your cooperation and to assess our operational readiness.
Our goal is to deepen civil-military relations and ensure Plateau remains safe,” Usman assured.
He also encouraged personnel at the Kerang Air Force Base in Mangu LGA to work more closely with local communities to improve intelligence sharing and protect the state’s territorial integrity.
With the ₦109.7 billion supplementary budget now signed, Governor Mutfwang’s administration is set to inject fresh energy into security operations, infrastructure development, and social services,ensuring Plateau State remains a beacon of peace, commerce, and renewed investor confidence.
The Plateau State High Court is set to usher in its 2025 Legal Year with a rich blend of spirituality, thanksgiving, and ceremonial pageantry, a tradition that underscores the solemnity of justice in the state.
The events will kick off on Friday, 12th September 2025, with a special Jumat Prayer at the Fibre Mosque, where judges, lawyers, court officials, and the faithful are expected to gather to seek Allah’s blessings for a year of fairness, peace, and speedy dispensation of justice.
The interfaith celebration will continue on Sunday, 14th September 2025, with a Thanksgiving Service at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, symbolizing unity and invoking divine guidance for the judiciary as it embarks on a new legal calendar.
The grand finale comes on Tuesday, 16th September 2025, with the much-anticipated Legal Year Guard of Honour and Official Court Session a colourful display of judicial tradition, where the Chief Judge will officially declare the Legal Year open, setting the tone for a year of strengthened rule of law and renewed commitment to justice.
Legal practitioners, stakeholders, and the public are urged to participate fully in these landmark events as the Plateau Judiciary takes another step toward deepening justice delivery across the state.
Plateau State’s economic landscape took a giant leap forward under Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang and the visionary General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), Arc. Hyte Bankart, jointly unveiled the state’s newest economic pride, the Bukuru Ultra-Modern Market, a facility designed to transform local trade, create jobs, and integrate Plateau into a new era of commercial prosperity.
Speaking at the commissioning, Governor Mutfwang described the project as a “game-changer” for Plateau’s economy, aligning with his administration’s Greater Jos Master Plan to build functional, modern cities.
“Today is not just about commissioning a market; it is about launching Plateau into a future of sustainable economic growth,” the governor declared.
The market, completed in just 11 months, boasts : 164 shops 133 lock-up shops 16 warehouses 15 small shops 116 stalls Open spaces for hawkers
It can accommodate over 2,000 traders, making it one of the most organized trading hubs in the state. Governor’s Bold Promise for Economic Growth Governor Mutfwang, brimming with optimism, pledged to keep economic empowerment at the heart of his administration’s agenda :
“An economically viable Plateau is a prosperous Plateau. Under my watch, we will continue to invest the needed resources to make life better for our people.
This is a journey of growth not just for today but for generations yet unborn.”
He revealed that beyond Bukuru, his government is already working on reviving and constructing other key markets :
Kugiya Market Jos Main Market Mararraba Jama’a Market Neighborhood markets across Shendam, Mangu, and Bassa LGAs
“These are deliberate steps to position Plateau as a major economic destination,” he emphasized.
The governor also used the event to call for unity, describing it as the fuel for development :
“The more we unite, the more progress we attract to our state.
This is not the time to fight; it is the time to join hands and build a Plateau where every citizen prospers.”
He extended a hand of fellowship to stakeholders, urging them to collaborate with government efforts to build a stronger economy.
In his welcome address, Arc. Hyte Bankart hailed the market as a “testament to modern, sustainable infrastructure development.”
He credited the governor for believing in his team’s capacity and revealed that Phase Two of the project is already in the planning stage, with private investors showing interest.
“Our vision is to create markets that are not just functional but also competitive and attractive enough to draw businesses from across the country,” Bankart said.
He appealed for stronger government support to overcome inter-agency coordination challenges and ensure seamless execution of upcoming projects.
Rt. Hon. Na’anlong Daniel Gapyil, Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, praised the governor’s economic vision and pledged legislative support.
Hon. Silas Patrick Dung, Chairman of Jos South LGA, said the market would serve not only Bukuru but neighboring local governments, boosting trade and revenue.
Alh. Yakubu , Wazirin Bukuru, speaking for the traders, lauded the governor’s people-oriented governance and assured him of the traders’ cooperation.
A representative of HRM Da Jacob Gyang Buba, Gbong Gwom Jos, also appreciated the administration’s development strides in Jos South.
The commissioning ceremony drew top dignitaries , the Deputy Governor, SSG, commissioners, chairmen of LGAs, and business leaders ,all celebrating the dawn of a new economic era.
Governor Mutfwang closed the ceremony with a prayerful dedication of the market and a solemn commitment to continue working for the prosperity of Plateau State.
“This is just the beginning. Together, we will make Plateau a place where business thrives, families flourish, and our children inherit a brighter future,” the governor assured.
The raging war of words between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) took a dramatic turn on Monday, September 8, 2025, as Muslim youths loyal to the PDP fired back at the APC’s Acting Publicity Secretary, Mr. Shittu Bamaiyi, accusing him of recycling lies aimed at dividing Muslims.
In a swift reaction to Shittu’s press release, the Muslim Youth for PDP, Plateau State, described his allegations as
“baseless, desperate, and insulting to the intelligence of Plateau people.”
The group recalled that the APC’s propaganda machinery was not new, tracing its roots back to 2003 during the administration of Governor Joshua Dariye.
Then, opposition figures attempted to pit Muslims against each other with similar claims of “government-sponsored divisions,” but their mission failed.
“Allah did not grant them success in 2003, and He will never grant them success today.
Islam rejects tribalism; we are one, whether Darika or Izala,” the youths declared, stressing that the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has remained a rallying point for Muslim unity in Plateau.
Reacting to Shittu’s latest accusation that PDP was creating an “Indigenous Muslims Association” to weaken Muslim ranks, the youths dismissed it outright as a fabricated distraction.
They reminded the APC spokesman that freedom of association is enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, and no political party has the right to dictate how Muslims, indigenes, or non-indigenes choose to organize themselves.
“By twisting a constitutional right into a phantom story of division, APC only exposes its fear of losing whatever influence it thinks it still holds among Muslims,” the statement read.
Taking a swipe at Shittu’s additional claim that PDP relies on “cash-and-carry clerics,” the youths thundered :
“Plateau people did not reject APC in 2023 because of clerics or propaganda.
They rejected APC because of its monumental failure in governance. The people’s verdict was loud, clear, and irreversible.”
According to them, the APC’s consistent resort to religion shows its desperation and lack of a credible record to showcase.
PDP Building Inclusive Plateau In contrast, the youths praised Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration for building what they described as
“an inclusive Plateau where Muslims, Christians, indigenes and non-indigenes feel a sense of belonging.”
They insisted that APC’s outdated politics of deceit and division would continue to fail because Plateau people have become wiser and more united in defending peace and progress.
The Muslim youths concluded their response with a stinging verdict: “APC is clinging to religion as a weapon because it has lost political relevance.
Under Governor Mutfwang, PDP is giving Plateau a future of peace, unity, and development. That is the reality Plateau people can see, and no amount of propaganda can erase it.”
Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Mutfwang, has congratulated Professor Elias Nankap Lamle of the University of Jos on his appointment as the Lead Consultant for integrating peacebuilding into Nigeria’s National Action Plan (NAP) on Climate Change.
In his goodwill message, Governor Mutfwang praised the Federal Ministry of Environment and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), under the NAP Global Network, for recognizing Prof. Lamle’s unrivalled expertise and entrusting him with a task of national and international relevance.
The Governor described the appointment as both timely and well-deserved, expressing confidence that Prof. Lamle’s strategic guidance will not only advance Nigeria’s climate agenda but also benefit the global community.
He recalled that Prof. Lamle, a renowned Professor of Anthropology of Conflict Management and Peace Studies, is widely respected across Africa for his scholarship in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
He highlighted Lamle’s intellectual depth, visionary leadership, and landmark contributions in shaping policies continent-wide.
“Prof. Lamle’s body of work has significantly influenced conflict management frameworks and policy interventions across Africa,” Governor Mutfwang said.
“His dedication to excellence, resilience in scholarship, and commitment to nation-building make him an outstanding ambassador of Plateau State and Nigeria.”
As Lead Consultant, Prof. Lamle will provide technical leadership to strengthen the capacity of government institutions, civil society organizations, and state,level actors in designing and implementing climate action strategies that also enhance peace and stability across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Governor Mutfwang, on behalf of the Government and people of Plateau State, extended heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Lamle, offering prayers for wisdom, good health, and divine strength as he undertakes this new responsibility.
He concluded by stressing that the appointment places Plateau State in the global spotlight as a hub of peacebuilding and sustainable development expertise, reaffirming the state’s growing influence in national and international affairs.
The Arewa Christian Youth Leadership Forum (ACYLF) has fired back at Prophet Primate Elijah Ayodele over his recent remarks against Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
A viral video had shown Primate Ayodele warning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to retain Prof. Nentawe, alleging that he lacks the capacity for the office.
But in a swift reaction, ACYLF described the comments as unfair, misleading, and dangerous for Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
Setting the record straight, the Forum first acknowledged that every Nigerian, including religious leaders, has the right to an opinion.
However, it cautioned that such views must not be cloaked as prophecy, especially when they touch on sensitive political leadership.
Quoting its Chairman, Dunijir Gatama, ACYLF declared :
“Nigeria needs responsible leadership, not careless prophecies.
What our democracy requires today is peace, unity, and a commitment to nation-building.”
The Forum further stressed that religious leaders wield enormous influence in society, and careless utterances could divide communities, weaken institutions, and discredit competent leaders working for the nation.
Defending Prof. Nentawe, ACYLF hailed him as “a technocrat, an academic of repute, and a generational leader with proven capacity.”
According to the group, his emergence as APC National Chairman represents not just a political triumph but a strong symbol of competence, inclusivity, and meritocracy in Nigeria’s democratic growth.
The Forum reminded clerics that prophecy is sacred and must not be mixed with political opinion.
Blurring the line, it warned, risks eroding public trust in religious institutions and could further fuel division in an already fragile society.
Reaffirming confidence in Prof. Nentawe’s leadership, ACYLF urged Nigerians to support him through prayers, constructive criticism, and encouragement as he pilots the affairs of the ruling party at a defining moment in the country’s history.
ACYLF, called on all religious leaders,Christian, Muslim, and traditional,to exercise wisdom, restraint, and responsibility in national matters.
He stressed that Nigerians look up to them for guidance and peace, not division and discord.
The people of Chugwi Community in Vwang District of Jos South Local Government Area, on Monday, rose in unison to celebrate what they described as a landmark honour, following the appointment of their illustrious son, Hon. Dr. Gyang Bere, as the Director of Press and Public Affairs (DOPA) to the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang.
In a well-attended gathering of elders, youths, and women, the community expressed deep appreciation to Governor Mutfwang for what they called “a reward for loyalty, competence, and dedication.”
They maintained that Dr. Bere’s elevation was not only a personal recognition of his professional track record but also a testament to the Governor’s trust in the Chugwi people.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional council, the Village Head of Chugwi, Da Yakubu Dung, said the appointment was a source of pride to the entire community.
“We are grateful to our Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, for recognizing our son.
This is the first time in history that Chugwi is producing the spokesman of the Government House.
It is a big honour, and we assure His Excellency of our undivided support,” he said.
The Women Leader, Mrs. Lydia Pam, also spoke passionately, describing the appointment as a collective blessing.
“Our son has worked hard, remained loyal, and stood with the people at all times.
We know he will speak with truth and integrity. For this singular recognition, we stand firmly with Governor Mutfwang and his Deputy, Her Excellency Josephine Piyo, for a second term in office,” she declared.
The Chairman of the Chugwi Youth Forum, Mr. Davou Gwom, noted that the Mutfwang administration had brought hope to young people across Plateau State.
“The Governor has shown that he believes in competence and capacity, not just politics.
Our endorsement of him and Deputy Piyo is total, because they have started well, and we must support them to finish even stronger,” he emphasized.
The community further highlighted the Governor’s “Time is Now” agenda as the turning point in Plateau’s governance, citing peace-building initiatives, infrastructural projects, and empowerment programs as legacies worth consolidating through continuity in 2027.
In their unanimous endorsement, the Chugwi community assured the Governor and his Deputy of their full mobilization strength at the grassroots, stressing that their prayers, solidarity, and loyalty remain unshakable.
They concluded that as they celebrate Dr. Gyang Bere, they are equally celebrating the foresight of a Governor who recognizes Plateau’s finest talents and positions them for service to humanity.
Former Minister of Sports and outspoken statesman, Barr. Solomon Dalung, has raised a thunderous alarm over the worsening state of insecurity in Nigeria, declaring that terrorism has become a national calamity that must no longer be tolerated.
In his Sunday Corner reflections, Dalung did not mince words as he condemned a trending viral video that captured the gruesome slaughter of a helpless victim by armed bandits.
For him, such barbarism is not only inhuman but also a clear indication that state authority has collapsed.
“This satanic era is an attack on our civilization and collective humanity. Nigerians must resist it with courage, resilience, and determination,” Dalung charged.
Dalung threw a direct challenge at the Nigerian government, warning that its failure to restore order has left citizens dangerously exposed.
According to him, communities can no longer afford to fold their arms while expecting help that never comes.
“The bitter truth is that no one will defend us except God and ourselves,” he stressed, insisting that insecurity has now grown into a national calamity threatening the very soul of the nation.
In his passionate appeal, Dalung called for the revival of traditional and community-based security structures.
He urged every able-bodied man and woman to be enlisted into local vigilante groups, working together to deter and confront criminal attacks.
Hunters, youths, and traditional regiments, he argued, should be mobilized as the backbone of this resistance.
Beyond weapons, he emphasized the importance of cultural intelligence gathering,communities sharing information, coordinating actions, and creating a formidable network of defense across villages and districts.
Dalung also called for proactive training for women, children, and the elderly in response and evacuation procedures.
Such preparedness, he said, could save countless lives in moments of crisis.
He warned that history would be harsh on this generation if it meekly surrendered to terror.
It is far better, he maintained, to be remembered as a people who resisted—even at the cost of their lives—than to be humiliated and slaughtered without a fight.
In his closing note, Dalung appealed to Nigerians to rise with courage, sacrifice, and determination.
“It is in defending our people and our heritage that we secure both dignity and a future for generations yet unborn,”
he said, insisting that the era of silence is over and that time is up for evil and their sponsors.
The trending horrific video of armed bandits pinning a victim to the ground and slaughtering him is nothing short of cruel, barbaric, and unwholesome.
Such a scene is not only dehumanizing but also a stark evidence of the collapse of state authority and the reign of terrorism in our land.
This satanic era represents an attack on our civilization and collective humanity, and Nigerians must resist it with courage, resilience, and determination.
Our communities can no longer fold their arms and expect protection from elsewhere. The bitter truth is that no one will defend us except God and ourselves.
This reality calls for urgent action in building traditional and cultural resistance to terrorism.
Communities must rise in unity and take ownership of their security and survival by rekindling the spirit of solidarity and vigilance.
One of the most effective steps is the revival of community-based cultural vigilantes.
Every able-bodied man and woman should be organized and recruited into such structures, working in synergy to deter and confront attacks.
Hunters, youths, and traditional regiments must be mobilized to form the backbone of this defense mechanism, standing firm against those who seek to destroy our people.
Equally important is the development of cultural mechanisms for intelligence gathering.
Communities must work together, sharing information and coordinating their efforts to prevent surprise attacks.
Strong collaboration across villages and districts will enhance preparedness and create a formidable network of defense.
Alongside this, vulnerable members of society must be trained in response and evacuation procedures, ensuring that women, children, and the elderly know how to act swiftly in the event of an assault.
History will not forgive us if we surrender meekly to terror. It is far better to be remembered as a people who resisted and, if need be, died defending their land, than to be captured, humiliated, and slaughtered by these beasts of terrorism.
Our generation must rise with courage and sacrifice, for it is in defending our people and our heritage that we secure both dignity and a future for generations yet unborn.
When Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang took the oath of office as Governor of Plateau State, he did so under the bold banner of the “Time is Now” agenda.
From day one, he signaled a departure from rhetoric to results,rolling out policies that spoke directly to the yearnings of the Plateau people.
His earliest months in office were devoted to stabilizing governance, reviving public institutions, and restoring the confidence of citizens battered by years of distrust.
This foundation became the springboard for the robust reforms that followed.
Infrastructure and Developmental Renewal
Next came visible action on infrastructure. Roads and township projects were revived, rural connectivity strengthened, and urban renewal programs set in motion. Communities long neglected began to feel the impact of government once more.
Education, Health, and Human Capital.
Governor Mutfwang then turned his attention to education and health,banning exploitative practices in schools, improving access to learning resources, and expanding healthcare delivery across local communities. His administration emphasized human capital, seeing people as the state’s greatest asset.
Agriculture, Economy, and Youth Empowerment
With Plateau blessed as an agricultural hub, Mutfwang restructured the sector by supporting farmers, boosting food production, and opening up markets.
Economic empowerment schemes targeted youths and women, creating jobs, stimulating entrepreneurship, and reducing dependency.
Consolidation and Future Outlook
As months rolled into years, these sectoral gains formed a coherent whole,proof of governance with vision.
Heading toward 2027, Mutfwang has pledged to consolidate progress, ensuring inclusiveness, accountability, and a sustainable foundation that will stand strong beyond his tenure.
Today, Plateau State is not just witnessing change,it is experiencing deliberate, people-centered leadership with eyes fixed on the future.
And as the momentum builds, one narrative continues to echo across the state:
The Plateau State House of Assembly has raised a strong alarm over the latest string of bloody attacks that have left communities in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area in ruins, calling on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to intervene without delay.
The motion, moved under matters of adjournment by Hon. Owen Dagogot, member representing Qua’an-Pan North, and co-sponsored by Hon. Theodore Maiyaki (SAN), representing Qua’an-Pan South, came after weeks of relentless violence in Nteng, Doemak District.
Dagogot drew the attention of the House to the heartbreaking ordeal of villages ,Do’op, Loon, Larwan, and Gorom,that have in the past six to seven weeks witnessed waves of coordinated militia attacks.
The assaults, he lamented, have claimed lives, destroyed homes, burnt farmlands, and displaced hundreds of helpless residents.
Condemning the persistent killings, lawmakers stressed that security remains on the Exclusive Legislative List, and urged the National Assembly to immediately direct the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector General of Police, and other relevant security agencies to move decisively in restoring law and order.
In addition, the House appealed to the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (PLASEMA) to undertake an on-the-spot assessment of the ravaged communities and provide urgent relief to the displaced victims.
The motion was seconded by Hon. Mathew Kwarpo, representing Mangu South. After heated deliberations and contributions by members, the House unanimously endorsed all prayers and directed its Clerk to transmit clean copies of the resolution to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Inspector General of Police for immediate action.
In his closing remarks, Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, said the Assembly could no longer remain silent while innocent lives were being cut short.
He commended members for their sacrifice, unity, and dedication to peace and development in Plateau State.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and philanthropist-politician, Chief Kafas Rofshik, have joined voices in urging Christians and Muslims to embrace religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence as the only pathway to restoring Plateau’s lost glory.
The governor made the call on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, during the 56th Eid al-Maulud celebration at the Jos Central Mosque.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, Mutfwang reminded citizens that God intentionally allowed mankind to choose their faith to promote harmony, not division.
“Religion is a choice,you can decide to be a Christian or Muslim. Why then should we alter what God has perfectly designed for smooth living together?” the governor asked rhetorically.
Mutfwang condemned politicians who exploit religion and ethnicity to divide the people, warning citizens to be cautious of leaders who promote hate for political advantage.
“We came to celebrate with the Muslim Ummah and reassure them that government stands firmly with them.
Plateau’s biggest challenge remains religion, but we must imbibe togetherness because we are one people,” he emphasized.
In a separate interview at the celebration, Chief Kafas Rofshik, MD/CEO of Kefiano Auto and former PDP governorship aspirant, passionately described Islam as a religion of peace, lamenting that Plateau’s image outside the state is often overshadowed by reports of crisis.
“Plateau is a peaceful state. I always feel bad when I hear otherwise. No matter the religion you profess, we are one and must remain one,” he said.
Rofshik stressed that tolerance is the bedrock of unity, adding that religion should not be used to label or divide people.
“When I came to this world, I never discussed with God what religion to belong, neither did anyone. Religion is in the heart. If you are a criminal, you are a criminal,your religion doesn’t define you,” he noted.
To buttress his point, the philanthropist cited his mechanized farm covering over 7,000 hectares, where a Muslim manages operations without issues.
“Religion doesn’t define who you are; your personal deeds do. There are good Christians and good Muslims alike. What matters is fear of God and Allah,” he explained.
Rofshik also applauded Governor Mutfwang for earning rare commendations from Muslims in the state, urging him to sustain inclusive programs, especially in Jos North, to foster deeper integration.
As Plateau joined the global Muslim community in marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), the voices of Governor Mutfwang and Chief Kafas rang out with a united message :
Plateau’s future lies in religious tolerance, peace, and shared prosperity,not in division.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has been commended by the Plateau Youth Assembly for providing an enabling environment for young people to thrive, even as the youths decried the challenges of bad leadership which they described as Nigeria’s greatest setback.
The 4th Youth Assembly made its position known during its first anniversary celebration held at BGL Hotel, Dadi Kowa, Jos, on Friday, 5th September 2025.
Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the 4th Plateau Youth Assembly Hon. Innocent Daniel traced the body’s journey since inception, describing God’s faithfulness and Governor Mutfwang’s support as instrumental to their progress.
The Speaker lamented that Nigeria’s growth has been crippled by leadership failure, stressing that unlike other parts of the world, Nigerian leaders often assume office with wrong mindsets, selfish motives, and deliberate intentions to enrich themselves and their immediate families.
Hon. Speaker Daniel reminded the gathering that leadership is a call to service, not a career of wealth accumulation, urging young people not to lose hope but to unite, keep pushing, and channel their energy towards positive change.
“Nigeria has some of the best brains in Africa. It is time we package these initiatives and prove to the world that the youth can lead differently,” the Speaker said.
The Assembly further pledged to intensify advocacy, mindset transformation, and leadership reorientation across Plateau State as part of its mission to prepare young people for responsible service.
A highlight of the celebration was the conferment of Patron of the Plateau Youth Assembly on the State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Musa Ashoms, in recognition of his consistent support for youth-driven initiatives.
In his acceptance, Hon. Ashoms represented at the event,hailed the resilience of Plateau youths, promising unwavering support from his ministry.
“I am deeply passionate about every program concerning the youth because that is my constituency. I urge you to remain steadfast in this positive path,” Ashoms declared.
Also on the occasion, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Mutfwang on Youth, Sophia Mohammed, admonished youths to avoid destructive behaviors that could jeopardize their future.
Businessman and entrepreneur Pam Wayas added his voice, warning against the get-rich-quick syndrome that has pushed many into internet fraud and money rituals.
The event climaxed with awards presentation to distinguished personalities, with Hon. Ashoms topping the list as Patron of the Plateau Youth Assembly, Plateau State chapter.
The Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) Electoral Committee has unveiled the official roadmap for its 2025/2026 elections, spelling out membership requirements, conditions for aspirants, nomination form fees, and voter accreditation rules.
According to the Committee, only legitimate members who meet the following criteria will be recognized :
1. Payment of April–August dues totaling ₦5,000
2. Submission of two recent publications
3. Valid CAC Registration Certificate .
4 Submission of Indigene Form
5. National Identity Number (NIN) slip or card
Aspirants for any elective office must :
Provide proof of office location (mandatory for Chairman and Deputy Chairman aspirants).
The Electoral Committee also released a detailed election timetable :
Sales of Nomination Forms: Opens Monday, 8th September, Closes Monday, 22nd September 2025.
Screening of Qualified Members: Monday, 29th September 2025.
Screening of Aspirants: Friday, 3rd October 2025.
Election Day: Sunday, 5th October 2025.
The Committee stressed that late submissions of nomination forms will not be accepted.
On Election Day, only members who present the following will be accredited to vote : 1. CAC Registration Certificate
2. National Identity Card (NIN).
3. Valid PPA Registration Receipt of ₦20,000.
Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Shabul Mazadu, in company with Comrade Nanzing Zingkong (Secretary) and Phillip Zhatau (PRO), assuring members of a credible, transparent, and hitch-free electoral process.
The Plateau State House of Assembly has waded into the growing crisis in the real estate sector, moving to regulate unauthorized house agents while repealing the state’s outdated Rent Edict.
The motion, raised on the floor by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, Member representing Pankshin North, exposed the unchecked excesses of illegal agents who exploit accommodation seekers with exorbitant charges and fraudulent practices.
Lawmakers expressed worry that both landlords and tenants have become victims of unprofessional conduct due to the absence of proper regulation in the housing sector.
“The Assembly is determined to put an end to the exploitative tendencies of unauthorized house agents.
We cannot continue to allow our citizens to suffer in the hands of individuals who take advantage of the housing needs of Plateau people.”
After deliberations, members unanimously resolved to introduce a licensing system to sanitize the operations of house agents and protect the public from further exploitation.
The House also voted to repeal the obsolete Rent Edict, describing it as inadequate in addressing modern housing realities.
Lawmakers insisted that a new framework must reflect fairness, accountability, and affordability in the real estate sector.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, endorsed the resolution, assuring that the move would restore sanity and relief to Plateau residents.
“This resolution is a step towards protecting Plateau citizens from hardship and abuse.
The Assembly will ensure that any new law passed will bring order to the housing sector,” Daniel emphasized.
The Committee on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development has been directed to draft a comprehensive framework that will guide licensing and regulation of house agents across the state.
Commending members for their robust contributions, Speaker Daniel reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to laws that uplift living conditions and protect the interests of Plateau citizens.
The Plateau State House of Assembly has waded into the growing crisis in the real estate sector, moving to regulate unauthorized house agents while repealing the state’s outdated Rent Edict.
The motion, raised on the floor by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, Member representing Pankshin North, exposed the unchecked excesses of illegal agents who exploit accommodation seekers with exorbitant charges and fraudulent practices.
Lawmakers expressed worry that both landlords and tenants have become victims of unprofessional conduct due to the absence of proper regulation in the housing sector.
“The Assembly is determined to put an end to the exploitative tendencies of unauthorized house agents.
We cannot continue to allow our citizens to suffer in the hands of individuals who take advantage of the housing needs of Plateau people.”
After deliberations, members unanimously resolved to introduce a licensing system to sanitize the operations of house agents and protect the public from further exploitation.
The House also voted to repeal the obsolete Rent Edict, describing it as inadequate in addressing modern housing realities.
Lawmakers insisted that a new framework must reflect fairness, accountability, and affordability in the real estate sector.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, endorsed the resolution, assuring that the move would restore sanity and relief to Plateau residents.
“This resolution is a step towards protecting Plateau citizens from hardship and abuse.
The Assembly will ensure that any new law passed will bring order to the housing sector,” Daniel emphasized.
The Committee on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development has been directed to draft a comprehensive framework that will guide licensing and regulation of house agents across the state.
Commending members for their robust contributions, Speaker Daniel reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to laws that uplift living conditions and protect the interests of Plateau citizens.
The Plateau State House of Assembly has waded into the growing crisis in the real estate sector, moving to regulate unauthorized house agents while repealing the state’s outdated Rent Edict.
The motion, raised on the floor by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, Member representing Pankshin North, exposed the unchecked excesses of illegal agents who exploit accommodation seekers with exorbitant charges and fraudulent practices.
Lawmakers expressed worry that both landlords and tenants have become victims of unprofessional conduct due to the absence of proper regulation in the housing sector.
“The Assembly is determined to put an end to the exploitative tendencies of unauthorized house agents.
We cannot continue to allow our citizens to suffer in the hands of individuals who take advantage of the housing needs of Plateau people.”
After deliberations, members unanimously resolved to introduce a licensing system to sanitize the operations of house agents and protect the public from further exploitation.
The House also voted to repeal the obsolete Rent Edict, describing it as inadequate in addressing modern housing realities.
Lawmakers insisted that a new framework must reflect fairness, accountability, and affordability in the real estate sector.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, endorsed the resolution, assuring that the move would restore sanity and relief to Plateau residents.
“This resolution is a step towards protecting Plateau citizens from hardship and abuse.
The Assembly will ensure that any new law passed will bring order to the housing sector,” Daniel emphasized.
The Committee on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development has been directed to draft a comprehensive framework that will guide licensing and regulation of house agents across the state.
Commending members for their robust contributions, Speaker Daniel reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to laws that uplift living conditions and protect the interests of Plateau citizens.
The Plateau State House of Assembly has waded into the growing crisis in the real estate sector, moving to regulate unauthorized house agents while repealing the state’s outdated Rent Edict.
The motion, raised on the floor by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, Member representing Pankshin North, exposed the unchecked excesses of illegal agents who exploit accommodation seekers with exorbitant charges and fraudulent practices.
Lawmakers expressed worry that both landlords and tenants have become victims of unprofessional conduct due to the absence of proper regulation in the housing sector.
“The Assembly is determined to put an end to the exploitative tendencies of unauthorized house agents.
We cannot continue to allow our citizens to suffer in the hands of individuals who take advantage of the housing needs of Plateau people.”
After deliberations, members unanimously resolved to introduce a licensing system to sanitize the operations of house agents and protect the public from further exploitation.
The House also voted to repeal the obsolete Rent Edict, describing it as inadequate in addressing modern housing realities.
Lawmakers insisted that a new framework must reflect fairness, accountability, and affordability in the real estate sector.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, endorsed the resolution, assuring that the move would restore sanity and relief to Plateau residents.
“This resolution is a step towards protecting Plateau citizens from hardship and abuse.
The Assembly will ensure that any new law passed will bring order to the housing sector,” Daniel emphasized.
The Committee on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development has been directed to draft a comprehensive framework that will guide licensing and regulation of house agents across the state.
Commending members for their robust contributions, Speaker Daniel reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to laws that uplift living conditions and protect the interests of Plateau citizens.
The Plateau State House of Assembly has taken bold steps to ease family burdens and curb exploitation in schools and housing markets across the state.
At its plenary on Thursday, lawmakers unanimously resolved to end the compulsory yearly purchase of textbooks in schools — a practice described as exploitative and unfair.
The motion, moved by Hon. Joseph Bukar (Shendam Constituency) and seconded by Hon. Mathew Kwarpo Sylvanus (Mangu South), highlighted how schools force parents to buy new books every academic session.
“Plateau parents are not seeking luxury, they are seeking fairness and relief. A sustainable textbook policy is the way forward,” Hon. Bukar declared.
After intense debate, the Assembly resolved that :
Textbooks should be re-used among pupils, including siblings.
Parents are free to buy books outside schools.
A four-year textbook cycle be adopted, ensuring stability as seen in Edo and Imo States.
To cut costs further, lawmakers encouraged Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and schools to set up book banks and swap schemes.
Attention then shifted to the rising culture of graduation parties in nursery and primary schools. Members described the trend as “wasteful, unnecessary and financially draining”,
insisting it adds no academic value. The Assembly directed schools to halt such ceremonies immediately, warning of sanctions for violators.
In the same plenary, the House also deliberated on a motion by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan (Pankshin North), which called for the urgent regulation of unauthorized house agents.
Members condemned their exploitative activities, including illegal charges, and resolved to establish a licensing system while repealing the outdated Rent Edict.
The Speaker Naanlong Daniel applauded members for their sacrifices and robust contributions.
He assured citizens that the Assembly will continue to pass resolutions that bring relief and development to Plateau people.
The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) has officially rolled out the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2026 Local Government Elections across the state’s 17 councils.
In a briefing held at its headquarters on No. 7 John Mark Samchi Road, Jos, the Commission said the move was in strict compliance with :
Sections 15, 19, 21, and 33 of the PLASIEC Law, 2024, Section 197(1)(B) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), And the Electoral Act, 2022.
The Commission declared that voting will hold on Tuesday, 1st September, 2026, between 8:00am and 3:00pm across all polling units.
According to Section 19 (2) of the PLASIEC Law, elections into local councils must not exceed 30 days before the expiration of the tenure of the current chairmen and councillors. For Plateau State, the deadline falls on September 1, 2026, now the election day.
Relying on Section 33 (1) of the PLASIEC Law 2024, which empowers it to issue notice of election not later than 360 days before the poll date, the Commission said it has activated the process to ensure political parties and aspirants have ample time to prepare.
PLASIEC urged political parties, aspirants, civil society groups, and the general public to take note of the timeline, assuring that the electoral body is committed to delivering a transparent, credible, and inclusive grassroots election.
With this announcement, the countdown has officially begun for what many observers believe will be a keenly contested and defining local government poll in Plateau State.
The Plateau State Government has declared a full clampdown on excesses in schools, outlawing multiple uniforms, flamboyant graduation ceremonies, and the culture of writing inside textbooks, among others.
This followed a high-powered Stakeholders’ Engagement on Education convened by the Ministry of Education in Jos on 28th August 2025, where critical issues bedeviling the state’s education system were subjected to intense deliberation.
The engagement resolved that students must only purchase textbooks for reference and study, while all classwork and assignments must be done in notebooks.
The use of “workbooks” was scrapped completely.
To check piracy, schools were also directed to procure books directly from publishers. The Ministry of Education vowed to enforce strict compliance in collaboration with stakeholders.
In a bid to cut flamboyance and financial burden on parents, government announced that graduation is now strictly reserved for Primary 6 and SS3 students only.
Graduation gowns, customized uniforms, after-parties and the notorious “signing-out” exercise were banned. Schools were directed to conduct such events in normal school uniforms only.
Resolutions further stated that extra lessons must not be made compulsory.
They are restricted to secondary schools, focusing mainly on English, Mathematics, and other critical subjects where necessary.
From now, all nursery, primary and secondary schools must adhere strictly to official resumption and closing dates as approved by government.
Every school was mandated to constitute and sustain a functional Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) to enhance accountability and community involvement in learning.
The government also outlawed multiple uniforms. Each school is permitted to have only one approved uniform, alongside a cardigan and games wear.
Examination bodies WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB were warned against timetable clashes in future.
They were also charged to intensify the fight against “miracle centers” and ensure strict supervision to curb malpractice.
According to the Ministry of Education, these sweeping reforms are binding, aimed at restoring discipline, reducing exploitation of parents, and elevating the quality of education in Plateau State.
Stakeholders at the engagement threw their weight behind the resolutions, assuring government of full cooperation to ensure the policies see the light of day.
By,giwa alex,jos
The Plateau State Government has declared a full clampdown on excesses in schools, outlawing multiple uniforms, flamboyant graduation ceremonies, and the culture of writing inside textbooks, among others.
This followed a high-powered Stakeholders’ Engagement on Education convened by the Ministry of Education in Jos on 28th August 2025, where critical issues bedeviling the state’s education system were subjected to intense deliberation.
The engagement resolved that students must only purchase textbooks for reference and study, while all classwork and assignments must be done in notebooks.
The use of “workbooks” was scrapped completely.
To check piracy, schools were also directed to procure books directly from publishers. The Ministry of Education vowed to enforce strict compliance in collaboration with stakeholders.
In a bid to cut flamboyance and financial burden on parents, government announced that graduation is now strictly reserved for Primary 6 and SS3 students only.
Graduation gowns, customized uniforms, after-parties and the notorious “signing-out” exercise were banned. Schools were directed to conduct such events in normal school uniforms only.
Resolutions further stated that extra lessons must not be made compulsory.
They are restricted to secondary schools, focusing mainly on English, Mathematics, and other critical subjects where necessary.
From now, all nursery, primary and secondary schools must adhere strictly to official resumption and closing dates as approved by government.
Every school was mandated to constitute and sustain a functional Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) to enhance accountability and community involvement in learning.
The government also outlawed multiple uniforms. Each school is permitted to have only one approved uniform, alongside a cardigan and games wear.
Examination bodies WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB were warned against timetable clashes in future.
They were also charged to intensify the fight against “miracle centers” and ensure strict supervision to curb malpractice.
According to the Ministry of Education, these sweeping reforms are binding, aimed at restoring discipline, reducing exploitation of parents, and elevating the quality of education in Plateau State.
Stakeholders at the engagement threw their weight behind the resolutions, assuring government of full cooperation to ensure the policies see the light of day.
Jos, Plateau State – The political momentum ahead of 2027 received a major boost as a coalition of former local government chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State on Monday threw their weight behind Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s second term bid.
Led by Hon. Phillip Jwe, the Forum of Former PDP LG Chairmen made their declaration during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ephraim Usman, at the ministry’s headquarters in Jos.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Hon. Jwe said the forum was convinced by Governor Mutfwang’s track record in grassroots development, peace building, and infrastructure renewal.
He described the governor’s leadership as “transformational,” noting that his people-centered policies had not only revitalized local governance but also fostered unity across Plateau.
The forum equally reserved glowing commendations for Commissioner Ephraim Usman, applauding his accessibility, dedication, and strategic coordination of local government affairs.
According to them, Usman remains “a pillar of support” to the governor’s success at the grassroots level.
In his response, Commissioner Usman expressed appreciation for the recognition, assuring the delegation of the government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive development.
He maintained that the backing of seasoned local government leaders was critical to sustaining progress and deepening democracy in the state.
With this endorsement, Governor Mutfwang’s support base continues to expand as Plateau heads toward the 2027 elections.
Analysts say the forum’s backing further consolidates his reputation as a grassroots mobilizer and people-centered leader.
The battle over the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) 2027 zoning arrangement took a new twist on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025, as the North Central Youth Support Group openly rejected the party’s decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South.
Addressing newsmen at the Plateau State PDP Secretariat in Jos, the leader of the group, Mr. Dinfa Ezekiel, insisted that zoning at this stage would contradict the PDP’s long-standing democratic practice.
He cited the case of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who despite being a sitting president, had to contest the 2003 primary against other stalwarts, including the late Muhammad Rimi and Barnabas Gemade, both from the North.
“If Obasanjo was not handed an automatic ticket, why now?” Dinfa asked pointedly.
Shifting the focus to Plateau politics, Dinfa announced that the group has unanimously resolved to throw its full weight behind Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s second-term bid, praising him for what he described as “sterling leadership and impactful governance.”
“As you can see, the people who gathered here are beyond Plateau alone; these are people from the entire North Central,” Dinfa emphasized.
He stressed that Mutfwang, as an illustrious son of Plateau, has raised the bar of governance and therefore deserves continuity in 2027.
Dinfa further revealed that, on behalf of the Dr. Gbenga Joel Hashim Foundation, the group would embark on massive mobilization to guarantee the governor’s re-election.
Political observers believe this endorsement has not only boosted Mutfwang’s 2027 momentum but has also deepened the internal debate within the PDP over its controversial zoning formula.
A group of concerned political stakeholders loyal to Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila has raised the alarm over what they described as the “dirty politics of sabotage” being orchestrated by the Chairman of Gaya Local Government in connivance with a former senator.
The stakeholders, who issued a press statement yesterday Tuesday 2rd September 2025 in Kano, said since Senator Sumaila’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), some local government chairmen, most notably the Gaya chairman, have embarked on divisive and provocative actions aimed at undermining the Senator’s developmental strides.
According to them, the Gaya chairman, working hand-in-hand with a former senator who “failed woefully to deliver his polling unit, ward, and local government” during the last elections, has been hiding under the guise of loyalty to the state government while pursuing an agenda of sabotage and blackmail.
They stressed that such political insubordination would no longer be tolerated, warning that no chairman has the right to derail the projects and programmes that Senator Sumaila is initiating across Kano South.
“Our guiding message is simple: No to Political Insubordination,” the stakeholders declared. “This means fairness, justice, and integrity in politics; zero tolerance for discrimination; accountability in all dealings; and above all, inclusive development across every ward in Kano South.”
While condemning what they termed “cheap blackmail and petty politics,” the group commended Senator Sumaila’s maturity in refusing to be distracted, noting that his leadership has continued to deliver unprecedented dividends of democracy to the people.
They recalled that in less than two years, Senator Sumaila had touched all 171 wards in Kano South through the popular WARAKA brand of development projects,a feat they described as “unmatched in the political history of the district.”
Roads, empowerment initiatives, and critical infrastructure, they added, have been rolled out across communities with fairness and precision, restoring faith in leadership and earning the Senator the title of “unifying force” in Kano South politics.
“For those in doubt, we boldly say: go and verify,” the statement read.
The stakeholders, therefore, urged the people of Kano South to ignore what they described as the “antics of Gaya chairman and his cohorts” and instead rally around Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, whom they hailed as a visionary, proven achiever, and symbol of maturity.
“Our message to the enemies of progress is loud and clear,” they concluded. “Enough of dirty politics. Kano South deserves progress, not sabotage. With Senator Kawu Sumaila, a greater and developed Kano South is already assured.”
Our Reporter
A group of concerned political stakeholders loyal to Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila has raised the alarm over what they described as the “dirty politics of sabotage” being orchestrated by the Chairman of Gaya Local Government in connivance with a former senator.
The stakeholders, who issued a press statement yesterday Tuesday 2rd September 2025 in Kano, said since Senator Sumaila’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), some local government chairmen, most notably the Gaya chairman, have embarked on divisive and provocative actions aimed at undermining the Senator’s developmental strides.
According to them, the Gaya chairman, working hand-in-hand with a former senator who “failed woefully to deliver his polling unit, ward, and local government” during the last elections, has been hiding under the guise of loyalty to the state government while pursuing an agenda of sabotage and blackmail.
They stressed that such political insubordination would no longer be tolerated, warning that no chairman has the right to derail the projects and programmes that Senator Sumaila is initiating across Kano South.
“Our guiding message is simple: No to Political Insubordination,” the stakeholders declared. “This means fairness, justice, and integrity in politics; zero tolerance for discrimination; accountability in all dealings; and above all, inclusive development across every ward in Kano South.”
While condemning what they termed “cheap blackmail and petty politics,” the group commended Senator Sumaila’s maturity in refusing to be distracted, noting that his leadership has continued to deliver unprecedented dividends of democracy to the people.
They recalled that in less than two years, Senator Sumaila had touched all 171 wards in Kano South through the popular WARAKA brand of development projects,a feat they described as “unmatched in the political history of the district.”
Roads, empowerment initiatives, and critical infrastructure, they added, have been rolled out across communities with fairness and precision, restoring faith in leadership and earning the Senator the title of “unifying force” in Kano South politics.
“For those in doubt, we boldly say: go and verify,” the statement read.
The stakeholders, therefore, urged the people of Kano South to ignore what they described as the “antics of Gaya chairman and his cohorts” and instead rally around Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, whom they hailed as a visionary, proven achiever, and symbol of maturity.
“Our message to the enemies of progress is loud and clear,” they concluded. “Enough of dirty politics. Kano South deserves progress, not sabotage. With Senator Kawu Sumaila, a greater and developed Kano South is already assured.”
The fight against drug abuse took center stage in Jos on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, as critical stakeholders across Plateau Northern Zone gathered at a one-day workshop organized by the Sound Minds Medical and Rehabilitation Initiative (SOMMRI) in collaboration with the Plateau State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The event, held at Crispan Events and Suites with the theme “Impact of Drug Abuse on Local Governance,” climaxed a series that had earlier sensitized Plateau South and Central, drawing together traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, security agencies, council secretaries, and community representatives.
Kicking off the technical session, Nurse Ndak Zuhumnan Andarawus (popularly known as Nurse Kizito), Program Manager of the Plateau State Malaria Eradication Project and SOMMRI volunteer, sounded the alarm.
He revealed shocking statistics : globally, over 247 million people abused drugs in 2014, with 28 million suffering disorders, while Nigeria records one in every seven persons between 15–64 hooked on substances.
Plateau, he disclosed, ranks second only to Kano in prevalence.
“Almost every community in Jos has ‘jungles’ where drugs are freely consumed, fuelling violent crimes and insecurity,” Kizito warned.
He tied drug abuse to armed robbery, murder, and social vices, stressing that most criminals admitted acting under the influence.
Beyond crime, he cautioned about psychosis, miscarriages, hallucinations, and liver damage, insisting that the battle must begin from homes, schools, and neighborhoods.
Clinical Psychologist Mafai Dauboyi highlighted family neglect, poor parenting, and exposure to alcohol as breeding grounds for addiction, while urging role models and structured activities for youths as protective shields.
Consultant Psychiatrist Prof. Nwoga Charles of the University of Jos gave a chilling analysis of stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and alcohol, stressing :
“Marijuana alone contains over 400 harmful chemicals. Substance abuse erodes health, relationships, and productivity.”
He demanded government-owned rehabilitation centers across Plateau, lamenting that treatment is too expensive for ordinary families.
Prof. Charles went further to recommend routine drug testing for political aspirants, noting that “leaders under drug influence cannot govern effectively.”
For Pharmacist Gyang Samuel Ishaya, Executive Secretary of Jos North LGA, the menace has crippled communities :
“Our problem in Jos North is not religion or tribe,it is drugs.
We are losing brilliant youths, even graduates, to addiction.”
Youth leader, Rt. Hon. Aseno Amos, Speaker of Plateau Youth Council, pressed for sustained sensitization :
“Most of our youths in prisons and rehab centers are there because of drugs. We must keep the campaigns alive.”
Traditional rulers lamented the easy access to drugs, while CAN and JNI leaders pledged to use their religious platforms to preach against abuse and mobilize for rehabilitation.
The workshop ended with a strong call for :
Stricter local government by-laws to curb drug sales,
Increased NDLEA powers and funding,
Revival of youth-centered programs such as debates, sports, and cultural events to productively engage youths.
Organizers shared questionnaires, promising that the feedback would shape Plateau State Government policy.
Plans were also unveiled for a state-owned rehabilitation and prevention center.
In his closing remarks, Nurse Kizito struck a hopeful but firm note :
“We cannot fold our arms while drugs destroy our youths and shake the foundation of governance.
This gathering marks the beginning of a coordinated fight.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State has taken a swipe at the Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission (TSIEC) over what it described as the outrageous cost of intention forms ahead of the forthcoming Local Government Elections.
The party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Aaron Artimas, made this known on Tuesday in Jalingo shortly after a meeting of the APC State Working Committee, where far-reaching resolutions were adopted.
According to Artimas, the APC resolved to encourage its members across the 16 local government areas to actively participate in the elections. Stakeholders, he said, were urged to meet urgently and produce consensus candidates for all elective positions.
To further ensure inclusiveness, the party leadership pledged to procure the intention forms for aspirants. But the APC lamented that TSIEC had deliberately pegged the cost at a prohibitive rate, describing the move as a calculated attempt to disenfranchise opposition parties.
The party went further to allege that TSIEC had already offered the forms to PDP-selected candidates on loan, insisting such an action was fraudulent, unacceptable, and a dangerous sign that the election outcome had been predetermined even before ballots were cast.
“This is nothing short of an attempt to deny Tarabans a credible election. But despite these obstacles, APC will participate fully in the polls to demonstrate its strength and acceptance across the state,” Artimas declared.
With this, the APC has put TSIEC on notice, urging the commission to retrace its steps and guarantee a level playing field that will restore confidence in the electoral process.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has extended heartfelt condolences to the General Manager of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, Hon. Chuwang Pwajok, his siblings, and the entire Pwajok family over the passing of their beloved father, Da Pwajok Nyam Shom, who peacefully went to be with the Lord at the age of 88.
In a solemn condolence message on Tuesday, Governor Mutfwang described the late Da Pwajok as a man of deep faith, rare integrity, and selfless service whose life and values inspired not just his immediate family but the broader Plateau community.
He recalled that Da Pwajok lived a life of unwavering devotion to God, profound wisdom, and compassionate leadership, virtues that shaped a generation of children now contributing meaningfully to governance and the development of society.
Governor Mutfwang further noted that attaining the age of 88 was a testimony of divine grace and a life well-lived.
He praised the departed elder for his resilience, moral uprightness, and strength of character in raising God-fearing and purpose-driven children.
The Governor, however, lamented that the passing of Da Pwajok leaves a huge vacuum at a time when Plateau and Nigeria need voices of moral authority to promote peace, unity, and justice.
He stressed that his demise is not only a loss to the Pwajok family and the Berom Nation but to Plateau State and the entire country, given the enduring legacy of humility, service, and integrity he leaves behind.
On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang prayed that God Almighty grants the Pwajok family the comfort and strength to bear the irreparable loss.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has joined Nigerians at home and abroad in rejoicing with the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, as he marks his 59th birthday.
In a heartfelt congratulatory message signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang praised Vice President Shettima as a fountain of wisdom, a strategic thinker, and a man of compassion whose humility and generosity continue to define his leadership style.
Reflecting on his illustrious public career, the Governor lauded Shettima’s service as a two-term Governor of Borno State, his impactful representation of Borno Central in the Senate, and his current position as Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, all of which, he said, have left indelible marks on Nigeria’s development.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized that Shettima remains a forthright and dedicated leader, whose loyalty to the cause of nation-building and contributions to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda are invaluable to Nigeria’s economic growth and sustainable progress.
He further described the Vice President as a leader of purpose and service, whose life is dedicated to God and humanity, inspiring productivity and good governance across the country.
On behalf of his family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang warmly congratulated Vice President Kashim Shettima on this milestone, praying for God’s enduring blessings of health, wisdom, and strength upon him as he continues to serve the nation with vision and commitment.
Two decades after surviving a ghastly accident that nearly claimed his life, Ambassador Yemi Matthew, Founder of the Good Samaritan and Human Development Center, returned on Monday, September 1st, 2025, to the Orthopedic Unit of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), not as a patient this time, but as a bearer of hope, faith, and relief.
The ministry distributed beverages and other relief materials to patients and their caregivers, marking what Yemi Matthew described as a thanksgiving and a testimony of God’s unfailing faithfulness.
Recounting his story, Ambassador Matthew said that exactly 20 years ago, he was rushed to JUTH after a fatal accident left him with broken ribs and multiple fractures.
He remained on admission for almost eleven months, battling for survival.
“I kept asking God why it happened while I was going to church. But three years later, while bathing, I heard a voice say :
‘Before now, you used to go to the hospital to pray with patients and encourage them.
Your ministry has taken that away, so I am sending you back.’ That was the turning point,” he revealed.
That divine encounter gave birth to the Good Samaritan and Human Development Center, through which he and his team have consistently visited hospitals across Plateau State, including Plateau Specialist Hospital, Barkin Ladi General Hospital, Mangu Cottage Hospital, Bima Orthopaedic Hospital, and many others, offering both prayers and material support.
“Each time we come, we don’t come empty-handed. We come to encourage patients and show them that the same God who healed me can heal them too,” Pastor Matthew declared with conviction.
Expressing his gratitude to partners who have sustained the mission, he acknowledged NASCO Group of Companies, Grand Cereals Ltd, Onigbinde Stores, The Unique Schools in Jos and Uyo, alongside families, friends, and other spirited individuals.
In her response, the Head of Nursing at JUTH, Mrs. Miri Deme, represented by the Deputy Director Post-Basic, commended Ambassador Matthew’s consistency in bringing succor and encouragement to patients.
She remarked : “It is not about how much you give; even the little you share can change lives.
We pray God replenishes you abundantly.”
For many at the Orthopedic Unit that day, the visit was more than a donation ,it was a living testimony that out of pain can emerge a divine purpose.
The Plateau Publishers’ Association (PPA) has felicitated with Chief Ambassador Nanyah Andrew Daman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of NewsGate Magazine and NewsCrest Newspaper, on his prestigious investiture as Patron of the Boys’ Brigade, Langtang Battalion Council, held on Sunday, August 31st, 2025.
In a statement signed by Shabul Mazadu, PPA Elcom Chairman, the association heartily described the honour as “well-deserved and historic,” given Daman’s sterling contributions to journalism, mentorship, and leadership in Plateau State and beyond.
Chief Amb. Nanyah Daman, with close to three decades in the pen profession, has not only carved his name into the annals of Nigerian journalism but also nurtured and shaped nearly 70 percent of publishers in Plateau State.
His footprints of excellence continue to inspire the media landscape across the Middle Belt and Nigeria at large.
Mazadu, on behalf of the PPA, expressed confidence that Daman’s wealth of experience, selfless leadership, and unyielding passion for service will further inspire the Boys’ Brigade and the younger generation in the values of discipline, faith, and responsible citizenship.
The association prayed for God’s divine wisdom, guidance, and strength upon his life, declaring its pride in sharing this milestone with him.
“Once again, congratulations!” the statement concluded.
Sunday, August 31st, 2025, will be remembered in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State as a day of history, honor, and celebration, when Chief Ambassador Nanyah Andrew Daman was formally invested as the Grand Patron of the Boys Brigade Nigeria, Langtang North Battalion Council.
The grand investiture, which was held at the COCIN Regional Church Council, Langtang North, was staged amidst pomp, pageantry, and the gathering of dignitaries, well-wishers, and members of the Brigade who turned out in their ceremonial uniforms to celebrate the moment.
Chief Nanyah Daman, a man whose life embodies service, truth, and leadership, was the cynosure of all eyes.
Born on February 23rd, 1963, in Plateau State, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Jos.
His career began at the Plateau State Ministry of Education before serving as an Information Officer during his National Youth Service, and later building a successful career in journalism where he has excelled for over two decades.
Today, he stands tall as the Group Managing Editor of The Newsgate Magazine.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the colorful investiture, Chief Daman described the honor as one of the most treasured recognitions of his life.
“I have just been invested today as a “BB” Patron of Langtang North Command Battalion.
I feel great serving the Lord and being honored in the house of God.
This is one of the most cherished awards I’ve ever had, and I hold it dearly. I thank God and I thank the “BB”Battalion for this privilege to serve the Lord deeper,” he said with joy.
In his message to the Boys Brigade, Chief Daman advised them to sustain the values of discipline and godliness that the organization is known for.
“Continue in discipline, righteousness, and godliness. Later in life, you will surely reap the dividends,” he admonished, charging the Brigade to remain shining examples for the younger generation.
The occasion not only underscored the Brigade’s mission of grooming disciplined and god-fearing youths but also celebrated the achievements of a community leader whose life continues to inspire hope, service, and commitment to nation-building.
History was again written in Jos North on Friday, August 30th, 2025, as the Plateau State Government reaffirmed its commitment to tricycle operators, popularly known as Keke NAPEP, describing them as vital drivers of the state’s economy.
Speaking at the official launching of the Association’s employment scheme and award ceremony held at Jos North Hall, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by his Chief of Staff, Jerry Satmark, praised the resilience of operators and pledged continuous government backing.
According to him, the activities of Keke NAPEP operators have “astronomically scaled up the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR),” making them indispensable to Plateau’s commercial life.
He assured that his administration would continue to create a conducive environment for their operations across the state.
Satmark urged the operators to remain united, organized, and vigilant in exposing bad elements that could tarnish the sector, stressing that such discipline would further attract government attention and support.
He also charged them to rally behind Governor Mutfwang’s second-term ambition in 2027, warning that allowing “those who do not mean well for Plateau” into power would jeopardize ongoing development projects.
Earlier, the Chairman of Jos North Local Government, Barrister J.K. Chris, recalled how he was initially skeptical when the union leadership presented the employment programme.
However, he admitted that the association has proven itself by faithfully keeping its commitments.
“So far, they have not reneged on their promises, and they pay back as at when due,” he noted, commending their contribution to youth empowerment and grassroots development.
The high point of the event was the presentation of awards to deserving personalities.
Among those honoured was former Governor, Senator Jonah David Jang, celebrated for introducing tricycles to Plateau in 2012.
Other notable attendees included former House of Representatives member, Hon. Musa Bagos, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth, Sophia Isa, and several dignitaries.
Speakers at the colourful event echoed a common call: support continuity and avoid changing a winning team.
They maintained that sustaining the Mutfwang administration beyond 2027 would guarantee uninterrupted progress for the tricycle sector and Plateau State at large.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Saturday, August 30th, 2025, joined family, friends, professional colleagues, and admirers to celebrate the birthday of veteran journalist and renowned broadcaster, Mr. George Dung Pam.
In a press statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr. Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang described Mr. Pam as “a consummate intellectual and a towering figure in the Nigerian media space whose eloquence, depth, and unwavering commitment to truth have left indelible marks on Plateau State and the nation at large.”
Tracing his life’s journey, the Governor extolled the broadcaster’s virtues of humility, professionalism, patriotism, and hard work.
He emphasized that Mr. Pam has distinguished himself not only as a journalist of repute but also as a fearless advocate of social justice, a visionary politician, a community mobilizer, and an enduring inspiration to younger generations.
The statement further reflected the Governor’s commendation of Mr. Pam for consistently bringing fresh perspectives into journalism.
Governor Mutfwang, stressed that even in retirement, the veteran broadcaster continues to shine as a beacon of excellence and a role model across Plateau and beyond.
On behalf of the Government and people of Plateau State, the Governor warmly congratulated Mr. Pam, praying for renewed strength, sound health, and divine wisdom to continue offering invaluable counsel toward the growth and unity of the state.
He expressed optimism that the new age will usher the veteran broadcaster into a fulfilling season of peace, joy, and fulfillment.
Plateau State basked in pride on Saturday as Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang joined the world to celebrate Barr. Ibrahim James Pam, the distinguished Chairperson of the World Bank Inspection Panel, on the occasion of his birthday.
In a statement signed by Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Mutfwang extolled Barr. Pam as a rare gem, describing him as a forward-looking legal luminary, an accomplished investigator, and an international lawyer whose towering contributions have fortified global financial institutions.
The Governor recalled Pam’s illustrious career spanning over three-and-a-half decades in international law, climate finance integrity, and accountability systems, noting that his expertise in probing mass crimes, human rights abuses, and financial fraud has earned him global respect.
Mutfwang stressed that Barr. Pam remains a worthy son of Plateau State who continues to fly the state’s flag high across the globe, aligning international governance with the real needs of nations and communities.
Beyond his professional exploits, the Governor hailed Pam’s humility, wisdom, and resilience, describing him as a model of unity, justice, and public service whose vision and leadership have touched countless lives.
On behalf of his family, government, and the people of Plateau State, Mutfwang wished Barr. Pam a joyous birthday, praying for renewed health, divine wisdom, and strength as he continues to contribute to purposeful leadership and sustainable development worldwide.
It was a day of history and symbolism in Jos on Friday 29th August 2025.
Soldiers stood in tight formation, tanks rumbled in the background, and freshly deployed troops awaited orders as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, lowered the curtain on Operation Safe Haven and hoisted the flag of its successor ,”Operation Enduring Peace”.
The epoch-making ceremony at the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division Headquarters did not just signal a change of name but what General Musa described as a strategic rebirth in the nation’s fight to secure Plateau and neighboring Kaduna, Benue, and Nasarawa states.
Addressing officers, men, and dignitaries, the Defence Chief declared :
“Today, we gather to mark a significant and strategic transition in our ongoing commitment towards restoring sustainable peace, security, and stability.
It is with great honour that I formally deactivate Operation Safe Haven and operationalize its successor : “Operation Enduring Peace.”
While acknowledging Operation Safe Haven’s role in tackling communal conflicts and banditry, General Musa admitted it had suffered operational and structural limitations, often reacting to crises rather than preventing them.
He assured that the new Operation Enduring Peace would be intelligence-driven, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, improve logistics, and deepen community engagement.
“This rebranding is not cosmetic. It reflects a broader mandate and a stronger resolve to secure not just temporary safety, but a lasting peace that will endure for generations,” he emphasized.
To match words with action, the CDS announced the deployment of additional personnel and modern operational assets, including armored personnel carriers, tanks, and motorbikes.
He also unveiled welfare packages aimed at boosting troops’ morale.
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In his charge, General Musa called on political leaders, traditional rulers, religious clerics, civil society, and communities to see the new operation as a “whole-of-society” security project.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General E.F. Oyinlola, reinforced this vision, calling the shift a “strategic realignment” to confront evolving threats.
“Our goal is clear : to consolidate the gains of the past, close existing gaps, and establish a sustainable framework for peace that will endure well into the future,” Oyinlola declared, urging communities and youth groups to strengthen cooperation with the military.
The climax of the event saw General Musa hoist the new operational flag, commission freshly acquired combat equipment, and address the newly deployed troops, signaling the upscaling of operations.
Thus, with pomp, symbolism, and renewed confidence, the Nigerian military formally buried Operation Safe Haven and birthed Operation Enduring Peace, vowing to usher in a new era of security and stability for Plateau and the Middle Belt.
History was rewritten in Kurfi Local Government Area of Katsina State, as weary residents bowed to pressure and struck a peace deal with bandits who had long drenched the community in blood and tears.
For years, Kurfi had been on the frontline of banditry, suffering repeated attacks, mass abductions, and the gruesome loss of innocent lives.
The people, pushed to the wall, finally dispatched a high-powered delegation to negotiate with the very warlords tormenting them.
The peace mission was led by the District Head of Kurfi, Alhaji Mansir Ahmadu Kurfi, and the Chairman of the Local Government, Alhaji Babangida Abdullahi Kurfi, who met face-to-face with the dreaded commanders of the terror gangs.
In his remarks during the talks, the District Head expressed optimism, describing the dialogue as a bold step towards ending years of bloodshed.
He assured residents that all agreements reached would be respected and sustained, pledging to do everything within his power to preserve the newfound peace.
In a twist that raised eyebrows, the District Head went further—requesting the names of some bandit leaders so they could be honoured with traditional titles as a mark of reconciliation and recognition in the community.
Prominent among the bandit leaders present were Alhaji Usman Kachalla Ruga, Sani Muhindinge, Yahaya Sani (Hayyu), and Alhaji Shu’aibu, who openly attended the peace parley.
The development has since stirred mixed reactions across Katsina and beyond, with some residents hopeful of lasting peace, while others fear the controversial deal may further embolden the bandits.
The Benue State House of Assembly has thrown out the nomination of a lecturer from Benue State University (BSU) for a commissioner position, after a storm of petitions and public outcry exposed his alleged track record of intimidation and vindictiveness.
The drama began when lawmakers received four petitions against the academic ,three from his former students and one from a family in his community.
The petitions painted him as a man unfit for public trust, accusing him of abusing his position, harassing students, and exhibiting a vindictive streak.
As the petitions circulated, social media platforms were flooded with unofficial complaints, many echoing similar tales of intimidation and harassment during his years in the classroom.
The revelations only heightened pressure on the Assembly to act decisively.
One allegation stood out as the most damaging. A former student claimed the lecturer had deliberately failed him.
The matter reached the faculty dean, who constituted an independent panel to probe the complaint.
Upon review, the student’s grade was upgraded from an F to a B, confirming that the lecturer’s earlier assessment was unjust and tainted by bias.
The case cemented the Assembly’s stance. Lawmakers declared that such a person, who could not uphold fairness and integrity in academia, could not be entrusted with the responsibilities of political office.
The House subsequently urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to immediately replace his name along with another nominee.
The rejection, however, goes beyond one individual. It throws a spotlight on a recurring problem within Nigeria’s universities, where instead of being mentors, encouragers, and guides, some lecturers are remembered by their students for harassment, intimidation, and abuse of power.
For the BSU lecturer, it was a golden chance lost. For others still in positions of authority, it stands as a clear warning: treat people with dignity and fairness, because yesterday’s victim can be tomorrow’s voice of judgment.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has celebrated Hon. Chrysanthus Ziphion, Director of the Abuja Liaison Office, on his graduation from the prestigious National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, describing the achievement as historic and a pride to Plateau.
In a goodwill message issued on Friday, Governor Mutfwang hailed Ziphion as “a fountain of knowledge, a forward-looking and intelligent son of Plateau whose academic excellence and wealth of experience from the College will contribute immensely to the advancement of the security sector, not only in Plateau State but across the nation and beyond.”
The Governor lauded Ziphion’s unwavering commitment to capacity building, leadership development, and service to God and humanity.
He urged him to remain guided by Plateau’s cherished values of justice, fairness, empathy, and tolerance as he deploys his newly acquired skills for the benefit of society.
Governor Mutfwang stressed that the feat marks a milestone, as Hon. Ziphion becomes the first state government official to graduate from the National Defence College.
He said the development places Plateau on a strategic pedestal, especially at a time when the state and the wider North Central region continue to grapple with violent attacks and security challenges.
The Governor assured that with the expertise of technocrats, security professionals, and patriotic leaders like Ziphion, Plateau would continue to gain fresh ideas and practical solutions toward building and sustainable development.
On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, Mutfwang warmly congratulated Ziphion on his success and prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and good health as he applies his knowledge in the service of humanity.
In his remarks, Hon. Ziphion expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for his encouragement and support.
He pledged to deploy the insights and strategic leadership skills acquired at the National Defence College in advancing peace, security, and national development, not only for Plateau State but for Nigeria at large.
The road to the 2027 general elections in Plateau State witnessed a major boost on Thursday, 28th August 2025, when the Hausa Community in the Northern Zone openly declared total support for Governor Caleb Mutfwang, commending him for running an all-inclusive and unifying government that has embraced every ethnic and religious group in the state.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the PDP Northern Zonal Caucus meeting at Landfield Resort Event Center, Jos South Local Government Area, the Leader of the Hausa Community in the zone, Alhaji Yaro Maireke, who also doubles as the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Mutfwang on Hausa Community Affairs, said the governor’s style of leadership has restored confidence, peace, and trust among diverse groups on the Plateau.
Alhaji Maireke, while showering encomiums on the governor, declared :
“We, the Hausa Community, are fully behind Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
He has carried everyone along, irrespective of tribe, faith, or background. He is a true unifier and we will stand with him to ensure he returns for a second term in 2027.”
The meeting, attended by leaders and stakeholders from the six local government areas of the Northern Senatorial District,Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Bassa, Riyom, and Barkin-Ladi, unanimously endorsed Governor Mutfwang and his Deputy, Hon. Josephine Piyo, for a second term in office.
The endorsement equally extended to the State PDP Chairman, Hon. Chris Hassan, and his Executive members, with a strong vote of confidence passed on their stewardship.
They were urged to continue piloting the affairs of the party with loyalty, resilience, and consistency as Plateau approaches another electoral season.
Stakeholders at the meeting also reviewed the achievements of the Mutfwang administration in education, agriculture, tourism, youth empowerment, transportation, and infrastructural development, describing them as monumental and worthy of continuity.
The event, widely described by observers as a massive show of PDP strength and unity, attracted former ministers, legislators, serving commissioners, local government chairmen, grassroots mobilizers, and a mammoth crowd of party faithful.
By this action, the Northern Zone has not only reaffirmed confidence in Governor Mutfwang’s leadership but also sent a loud political message that the PDP is united, unshaken, and fully ready to consolidate power ahead of 2027.
The build-up to the 2027 general elections in Plateau State took a dramatic twist on Thursday, 28th August 2025, as the Northern Zonal Caucus of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) declared total support for the re-election of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang and his Deputy, Hon. Josephine Piyo, for a second term in office.
The endorsement, which also extended to the State PDP Chairman, Hon. Chris Hassan, and his entire Executive members, was announced at a well-attended stakeholders’ meeting held at Landfield Resort Event Center, Jos South Local Government Area.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the Northern Zonal Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Davou Mang, said the gathering brought together party leaders, political stakeholders, and supporters from across the six local government areas of the Northern Senatorial District—Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Bassa, Riyom, and Barkin-Ladi.
According to Mang, the zone deliberated extensively on the performance of the party and the administration of Governor Mutfwang, noting that his first term has witnessed monumental achievements across critical sectors such as education, tourism, transportation, agriculture, youth empowerment, and infrastructural development.
He stressed that the verdict of the zone was unanimous :
“The Northern Zone has endorsed Governor Caleb Mutfwang and his Deputy Josephine Piyo for a second term. There is no vacancy at Little Rayfield in 2027,” Mang declared with emphasis.
The meeting further passed a vote of confidence on Hon. Chris Hassan and the state PDP executive, urging them to seek a second term in office for their loyalty, resilience, and commitment to the growth of the party in Plateau State.
The event, described by observers as a show of PDP’s strength, was graced by top political leaders including former ministers, former legislators, serving commissioners, local government chairmen, grassroots mobilizers, and party faithful,too numerous to list.
By this development, the Northern Zone has not only reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership of Governor Mutfwang but also sent a strong political signal that the PDP is united, unshaken, and ready to consolidate power ahead of 2027.
The Media Consultant to Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, Mr. Shabul Mazadu, has strongly debunked insinuations from certain quarters alleging that the goodwill and humanitarian gestures of the Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN), are politically motivated.
In an exclusive interview with a journalist in Jos, Mazadu described such claims as
“baseless, mischievous, and a deliberate attempt to smear the image of a man whose life has been a testimony of service above ambition.”
Mazadu explained that long before politics came into the picture, Dakum’s life had been guided by scripture.
As a youth, he was already a Sunday school teacher, couples’ fellowship guide, and family life champion, placing the home as the foundation of a strong nation.
“To claim that his commitment to Sunday school or couples’ fellowship is political is laughable,” Mazadu stated.
“Children don’t vote. Dakum’s ministry in the church is discipleship, not politics.”
Tracing Dakum’s journey, Mazadu recalled how, as a trained medical doctor, he chose not to limit his practice to treating patients alone but expanded it into advocacy, counseling, and community development.
When the Fourth Republic began, Dakum was called to serve as Commissioner of Health in Plateau State, where he established General Hospitals in Tunkus, Angwari, and Dengi.
These facilities, Mazadu noted, remain functional today, employing hundreds and serving thousands.
“Unlike those who see public office as a ladder for ambition, Dakum used his position to plant projects that outlive his tenure,” he stressed.
Mazadu further highlighted Dakum’s decision to step away from politics at the height of Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS crisis.
At a time when treatment was scarce and deaths were mounting, he chose to lead the then newly formed Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN).
“Starting with just three staff members, he built an institution that today employs over 1,000 Nigerians and has touched millions of lives affected by HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria,” Mazadu emphasized.
According to the media consultant, Dakum’s service has never been restricted to one platform.
He founded NGOs to provide boreholes, support vulnerable families, and mentor youths.
He lectures at the University of Maryland, USA, impacting lives across continents, yet returns to Plateau State at personal cost to nurture children in Sunday school and guide literature clubs in church.
“This is not politics. This is service rooted in faith,” Mazadu insisted.
Mazadu reminded Nigerians that Dakum believes politics is only one of many platforms for service.
He often challenges citizens,artisans, teachers, farmers, and professionals,to ask themselves what they can contribute to their community, echoing John F. Kennedy’s timeless call :
“Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.”
Condemning attempts to drag Dakum’s spiritual and humanitarian efforts into politics, Mazadu warned that those who corrupt the altar for political gain will answer before God.
“Professor Dakum’s life is a testimony that true service is measured not by political titles, but by lives touched and communities rebuilt,” he concluded.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has poured encomiums on renowned journalist, Mr. Wika Gofwen, as he marks his birthday today, 28th August, 2025.
Professor Dakum, who also doubles as Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health at the School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, USA, described Wika as a towering figure in journalism whose life and career have left indelible marks on Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
Commending Gofwen’s contributions, Dakum noted that the celebrant has consistently deployed his expertise, sagacity, dedication, ingenuity, and patriotism in the noble profession of journalism.
He emphasized that Wika’s style of reportage, devoid of bias and sentiments, has fostered peace, unity, progress, and prosperity across Plateau and beyond, with impact resonating both at home and abroad.
Beyond journalism, Dakum further extolled Wika’s passion for cultural preservation, particularly his active participation in promoting the heritage of the Ngas nation, his tribe, through various cultural engagements.
The former Plateau State Commissioner of Information and Health prayed for God’s continuous blessings upon Gofwen, wishing him sound health, divine wisdom, knowledge, and prosperity in the years ahead.
You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great Zig Ziglar.
It is not for nothing that his parents gave him the name ‘Nentawe’. Literally translated, it means: Who does God not like? Or simply put: Does God hate anyone?.
If you get the drift and the context, you may appreciate where Prof Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe is coming from.
If it is not taken in isolation, the recognition that God has bestowed upon him over the years is significant in more ways than one. The trajectory of his academic and political rise is meteoric; more or less a confirmation of the grace that many have alluded to since he was made Benue State Resident Electoral Commissioner in 2017.
The ways of God are often not easily understood; for he lets his grace and favours speak continually in the lives of a person, taking ordinary men from obscurity to the limelight.
From an attempt to become the Governor of Plateau State in 2023 to his appointment as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction; nine clear months ago, God’s grace cannot be wished away in his life.
His acceptance of the appointment as National Chairman of the ruling party, APC cannot be contrived as personal ambition. It came at the expense of the directive of a higher authority.
Those who know better are quick to point out certain politicians who have traversed the Nigerian political landscape to sell their candidature. That was not in the case of Prof Nentawe Yilwatda.
Nine months ago, he had settled down in the office of Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction as Minister. He had run long before the new assignment “halted” the journey; however, for good though.
Who would have thought that the calculations were in the pipeline to work in his favour; and that catapulted him to become the party’s National Chairman.
Pundits have said something about him after he was sworn in, and they are right: “He is young, suave, well-educated, and doesn’t carry the usual political baggage”.
Even more, he “comes with a blend of academic, bureaucratic, and political experience”, in the new assignment.
Truly, that is the case. Just when everyone may have thought that he had settled down to managing disasters in Nigeria, on July 24, 2025, he got plugged out in order to take charge of running the affairs of the All Progressives Congress.
Two days before the party’s 14th National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe’s name was hardly heard as a contender.
At that meeting, he was nominated by Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, and Imo State governor, Hope Uzodinma and seconded by Dr Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
After a meeting held between the President and the APC governors, his fate was sealed and was presented to members of NEC as well as supporters of the APC.
The background of his wearing the new cap, came in the wake of the resignation of the erstwhile National Chairman, former Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje on June 27, 2025.
It is indeed inspiring that his choice is in recognition of two things some people may never have thought of :
His capacity and competence in driving the APC dream and bringing it to pass.
In his nine months as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, he comes highly recommended; coming after Chief Solomon Daushep Lar from Plateau State, who led the PDP, is historical in context and is worth celebrating.
The confidence reposed in one of the sons of Plateau State is indeed a watershed that requires it not to be taken for granted.
He has been quoted as saying about his appointment: “We are the mechanics, and the party is the vehicle. Together, we will fix it, drive it, and ensure we reach our desired destination. It’s a collective effort, and I believe this party will become the pride of the nation under our leadership.”
The 57-year-old academic has had a distinguished career in Electronics and Computer Engineering at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, where he became its pioneer Director of ICT.
From the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda was, in 2017, appointed Resident Electoral Commissioner with the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC.
It is on record that while he was at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) he championed a number of reforms on the “Electoral Act, developed voting frameworks for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and People Living with Disabilities (PWDs), and deepened technology in Nigeria’s electoral system”.
In November 2021, he resigned his appointment with INEC to pursue a political office as the gubernatorial candidate of Plateau State under the APC in the 2023 general elections.
Three areas would count in his favour: He has a massive follower ship in Plateau. He is an academic, whose field would play a critical role in this age of technology. And as a former Resident Electoral Commissioner, and by far, the fact that he is a Christian, could well pacify other faithful in the party.
The tasks ahead are without count: He will have to bring fresh air in the ranks of the party faithful as well as enable them have sufficient confidence in the affairs of the party; what with other opposition parties breathing on its nake to take power.
The support and goodwill that came on the trail of the new development, are enough to boost his resolve to accept the challenge. It is only proper for him to reciprocate by giving his best.
Even though his first visit to the state was reported to be a personal initiative, the prayers and thoughts of traditional rulers and the clergy are what he needs to travel on this journey.
The newly appointed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has turned his moment of grief into a call for unity, passionately appealing to journalists in Plateau State—and across Nigeria ,to support him in his national assignment.
This passionate plea came on Wednesday, 27th August 2025, when members of the Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) Electoral Committee (ELCOM) paid a condolence visit to his residence over the death of his mother, Mama Lydia Nentawe.
The delegation, led by the Electoral Committee Chairman, Comrade Shabul Mazadu, explained that though the committee was only recently inaugurated to conduct fresh elections following the expiration of the previous executive, it considered it a duty to identify with the APC National Chairman in his time of mourning.
Prof. Nentawe, unavoidably absent due to official engagements, was represented by Elder Gideon Barde, who welcomed the publishers warmly and conveyed the National Chairman’s message.
Elder Barde recalled that as far back as 1978, Mama Lydia was diagnosed with a severe ailment, and doctors predicted she had only two years to live. Against all odds, she lived over 40 years beyond that grim forecast until she peacefully answered the call of the Almighty days ago.
He narrated how, after losing her husband 17 years ago, Mama Lydia doubled as both father and mother to her seven children, with Prof. Nentawe being the eldest. “She lived to see her children and grandchildren. Truly, we must thank God for such grace,” Barde said.
Barde further placed Nentawe’s rise in historical context, noting that since the era of Chief Solomon Lar as National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Plateau had not produced any indigene to occupy such an exalted national party leadership position.
He stressed that while past APC National Chairmen were mostly former governors, Nentawe’s appointment as a much younger figure was divinely orchestrated. “Unlike others, he did not lobby. He never envisaged the position, but God located him as a pencil in His hand,” Barde emphasized.
Dispelling rumours, Barde affirmed that contrary to speculations, Nentawe has not resigned as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he revealed, still wants him to combine his ministerial duty with his new responsibility as APC National Chairman.
Barde used the platform to deliver Nentawe’s appeal, urging journalists to leverage the rare opportunity of having the APC National Chairman come from Plateau.
“When you understand him, you will know that he is an ambassador of peace, a believer in Nigeria’s unity, and a young man that the media should support. His success will not just be his own—it will be Plateau’s glory,” he said.
Ambassador Chris Giwa has paid a glowing tribute to the late Mama Lydia Nentawe Yilwada, describing her as a virtuous mother whose godly upbringing shaped the destiny of her son, Professor Nentawe Yilwada, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Giwa made this remark on Wednesday, August 28, 2025, during a condolence visit to the APC Chairman’s residence in Jos.
According to him, Mama Lydia lived an impactful life and left behind enduring legacies of faith, discipline, and prayer.
Drawing from the scriptures, Ambassador Giwa quoted :
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
He stressed that this biblical principle is evident in the life and steady rise of Professor Nentawe, whom he described as a living testimony of his mother’s guidance.
He noted that though Mama Lydia died at the ripe age of 83, her passing remains a monumental loss to the family and the nation, especially at this time when Professor Nentawe has emerged as a national leader.
“No one prays to lose a mother, no matter her age or health condition. Mama’s presence and prayers would have been an added strength for Nentawe as he discharges his duties as APC National Chairman,” Giwa said.
The Ambassador, however, urged the bereaved family to accept the death as the will of God, quoting another scripture :
“All things work together for good to them that love God.” He prayed for divine strength and wisdom for Professor Nentawe to carry on despite the vacuum Mama’s passing has created.
How he would describe the late matriarch, Giwa said, “You know a mother by the fruit she bears. The humility, faith, and leadership in Nentawe reflect the values Mama instilled in him.
You can see how God continues to lift him, it shows he had a blessed mother.”
He further explained that his condolence visit came later than expected because he had been out of the country.
On his return a few days ago, he made it a priority to personally console Professor Nentawe and the family.
The Plateau State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has lampooned the All Progressives Congress (APC), of describing its latest political outburst as reckless, insensitive, and proof of a party still reeling from defeat.
The backlash followed a statement issued by APC State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Shittu Bamaiyi, who allegedly dragged his National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, into partisan politicking despite mourning the death of his beloved mother yet to be buried.
The PDP, in its strongly worded reaction, said such conduct showed a total lack of respect for the dead and shameless desperation to score cheap political points.
According to the party, it was shocking that rather than standing in solidarity with their leader in this period of grief, the Plateau APC chose to weaponize his name against Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Setting the record straight, the PDP explained that Governor Mutfwang was officially invited by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Brazil as part of Nigeria’s high-level delegation, where agricultural investment deals were sealed in line with Plateau’s rising agricultural potential under his leadership.
The PDP stressed that instead of celebrating this national recognition, the APC twisted the narrative out of bitterness angered by the warm working relationship between President Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang across party lines.
The party, however, emphasized its continued sympathy with Prof. Yilwatda over his loss, contrasting its humane posture with what it described as APC’s “crude insensitivity and lack of uprightness.”
In a historical reflection, the PDP recalled that the PC’s accidental rise to power in Plateau State in 2015 was never built on solid foundations but on protest votes, which have since left the party disconnected from the people and struggling with relevance.
The PDP reaffirmed its resolve to remain focused on governance under Governor Mutfwang while appreciating President Tinubu for recognizing competence above partisanship in Plateau State.
“Unlike the APC, we remain committed to purposeful governance devoid of distractions.
Plateau will continue to rise under Mutfwang’s leadership,” the statement declared.
Plateau State’s fight against crime has recorded a landmark victory as the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina on Tuesday 26th August 2025 briefed journalists at the Force Headquarters in Jos, announcing a series of decisive breakthroughs against kidnappers, armed robbers, and other criminal gangs terrorizing the state.
The Commissioner disclosed that the dramatic breakthrough follows Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s early pronouncement upon assuming office that security would remain the first pillar of his administration.
The Governor immediately set in motion a robust synergy with the Police and other security agencies, strengthening intelligence gathering and tactical operations across Plateau and its environs.
According to the Police Commissioner, the latest success came after weeks of intelligence-led operations.
At the briefing, CP Adesina revealed that several notorious suspects were arrested, deadly arms and ammunition recovered, kidnap victims rescued, and multiple hideouts dismantled.
The Commissioner, while reeling out the achievements, pointedly commended Governor Mutfwang for providing the political will and continuous support that gave the Command the confidence to strike hard.
He revealed that early July 2025,Special tactical teams stormed criminal enclaves in Barkin Ladi and Bassa, freeing abducted victims and recovering sophisticated weapons.
Also in mid August coordinated patrol along Jos–Bukuru axis foiled an attempted robbery, leading to the arrest of suspects linked with several highway crimes.
Last week,detectives tracked and dismantled a kidnap syndicate operating between Riyom and Mangu, rescuing victims unhurt.
The Commissioner of police lauded residents of Plateau, stressed that the message is clear, the dark reign of criminals is collapsing under Mutfwang’s leadership, and law-abiding citizens can once again breathe a fresh air of safety.
In what has been described as a shameful act of desperation, the Plateau State Government has slammed the All Progressives Congress (APC) for circulating an old video of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s June 2025 BRICS summit appearance, mischievously presenting it as the President’s ongoing state visit to Brazil alongside Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
The government, through Sir John T. Akans, Special Adviser to Governor Mutfwang on Inter-Party Relations, said the APC’s action exposed its ignorance, lack of credibility, and desperation to mislead the public.
According to Akans, Governor Caleb Mutfwang was officially invited as part of President Tinubu’s high-powered delegation to Brazil,an engagement aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s bilateral relations and opening fresh opportunities for economic and agricultural development.
He stressed that Plateau State’s inclusion in this historic visit underscores the state’s rising influence in national policy direction and Africa’s agricultural transformation drive.
Akans dismissed the APC’s tactics as “pathetic and malicious,” accusing the opposition of attempting to undermine both Mr. President’s decision and Governor Mutfwang’s achievements.
He noted that all reputable national media platforms, alongside official presidential handles, had extensively covered the Brazil visit, detailing the President’s activities and the participation of his delegation.
“The ignorant merchants of fake news in Plateau APC should have done a simple fact-check before descending so low,” Akans fumed, warning that the people of Plateau must not fall for what he described as the APC’s politics of misinformation, mal-information, and dis-information.
He reassured citizens that Governor Mutfwang remains steadfast, visionary, and committed to driving Plateau’s progress and consolidating the state’s role in Nigeria’s economic future.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on the Federal Government to urgently revive the Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu seaports, insisting that their revitalization will not only transform Delta’s economy but also secure Nigeria’s long-term economic prosperity.
The governor made this passionate appeal on Monday in Asaba when he received the Board of Directors of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), led by its Chairman, Prince Senator Adedayo Adeleye.
Oborevwori said Delta is strategically blessed with four key ports that, if revived, will create jobs, attract huge investments, stimulate trade, and strengthen the nation’s maritime sector.
“Delta State is strategically blessed with four ports. If these ports are revived, they will create massive employment, stimulate trade, and strengthen the economy of the Delta and Nigeria. It is often more impactful to modernize existing ports than to build new ones,” the governor declared.
The Delta helmsman commended the NPA for its modernization efforts. Still, he warned that dredging the Warri Channel and rehabilitating the Warri and Koko port facilities must be treated as urgent national priorities.
He stressed that beyond the immediate benefits, modernizing Delta’s ports would reduce pressure on congested Lagos ports, expand Nigeria’s export capacity, and enhance the country’s competitiveness in global maritime trade.
Oborevwori further highlighted how collaboration between the State and Federal Governments was already yielding results in critical infrastructure. He noted that the Federal Government had awarded the Summit Junction Bridge head section of the Benin–Asaba Highway to Heartland Construction Company, while the State Government had awarded a section of the Sapele–Warri Road project to CCECC at a cost of N35 billion.
“This is a clear demonstration of the positive relationship between the state and the centre,” he said.
The governor’s appeal comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking new frontiers to diversify its economy beyond oil. By pushing for the revival of Warri, Koko, Sapele, and Burutu ports, Oborevwori has repositioned the Delta as the potential anchor for Nigeria’s maritime-driven economic future.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has poured glowing tributes on his long-serving Personal Assistant, Jonathan Gukut, as he marks his birthday today, August 25, 2025.
In a goodwill message signed by his Media Consultant, Shabul Mazadu, Prof. Dakum described Gukut as reliable, loyal, prudent, sagacious and unwaveringly dedicated to duty.
Prof. Dakum recalled that Gukut has been his Personal Assistant for decades, even before his tenure as Plateau State Commissioner of Information and Health.
He further highlighted that Gukut stood with him during the establishment of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria in 2004, where he served diligently until resigning a few years ago.
The statement appreciated Gukut for his longstanding loyalty and commitment, not only in official duties but also in his support of Prof. Dakum’s political journey.
While extolling his virtues of honesty, love, care, godliness, resilience, patience with subordinates, ingenuity in tough situations, and devotion to family and friends, Prof. Dakum urged him to sustain these values.
He prayed that God grant Gukut more progressive and prosperous years ahead in good health, divine wisdom, and knowledge.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has poured glowing tributes on his long-serving Personal Assistant, Jonathan Gukut, as he marks his birthday today, August 25, 2025.
In a goodwill message signed by his Media Consultant, Shabul Mazadu, Prof. Dakum described Gukut as reliable, loyal, prudent, sagacious and unwaveringly dedicated to duty.
Prof. Dakum recalled that Gukut has been his Personal Assistant for decades, even before his tenure as Plateau State Commissioner of Information and Health.
He further highlighted that Gukut stood with him during the establishment of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria in 2004, where he served diligently until resigning a few years ago.
The statement appreciated Gukut for his longstanding loyalty and commitment, not only in official duties but also in his support of Prof. Dakum’s political journey.
While extolling his virtues of honesty, love, care, godliness, resilience, patience with subordinates, ingenuity in tough situations, and devotion to family and friends, Prof. Dakum urged him to sustain these values.
He prayed that God grant Gukut more progressive and prosperous years ahead in good health, divine wisdom, and knowledge.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has poured glowing tributes on his long-serving Personal Assistant, Jonathan Gukut, as he marks his birthday today, August 25, 2025.
In a goodwill message signed by his Media Consultant, Shabul Mazadu, Prof. Dakum described Gukut as reliable, loyal, prudent, sagacious and unwaveringly dedicated to duty.
Prof. Dakum recalled that Gukut has been his Personal Assistant for decades, even before his tenure as Plateau State Commissioner of Information and Health.
He further highlighted that Gukut stood with him during the establishment of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria in 2004, where he served diligently until resigning a few years ago.
The statement appreciated Gukut for his longstanding loyalty and commitment, not only in official duties but also in his support of Prof. Dakum’s political journey.
While extolling his virtues of honesty, love, care, godliness, resilience, patience with subordinates, ingenuity in tough situations, and devotion to family and friends, Prof. Dakum urged him to sustain these values.
He prayed that God grant Gukut more progressive and prosperous years ahead in good health, divine wisdom, and knowledge.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has reinforced his growing influence on Nigeria’s international economic drive as he joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on an official state visit to Brazil.
Governor Mutfwang, who was officially invited to the high-level engagement, was among the top Nigerian officials who received President Tinubu at the Air Base reception in Brazil, heralding the start of a strategic diplomatic mission.
The visit, which underscores Nigeria’s determination to deepen global partnerships, will feature bilateral discussions and the signing of crucial Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Nigeria and Brazil.
Governor Mutfwang is expected to play an active role in these engagements, particularly as they align with his vision of positioning Plateau as an agricultural and industrial hub.
In the packed programme for today in Brasília, President Tinubu is scheduled to hold meetings with the President of the Brazilian Senate at the National Congress, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.
The delegation, including Governor Mutfwang, will also participate in the Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum, designed to attract fresh investments and broaden economic cooperation.
It will be recalled that Plateau was recently selected as one of only six Nigerian states to host the regional hub of the Green Imperative $1.1 billion Project, a Nigeria–Brazil initiative aimed at driving agro-industrialisation.
This milestone, analysts say, has set the stage for Plateau to become a major player in Africa’s agricultural transformation.
By joining the President on this historic visit, Governor Mutfwang is not only flying the flag of Plateau State abroad but also amplifying the state’s readiness to tap into global opportunities for economic growth and development.
Hausa community leaders in Plateau State, led by Alhaji Yaro Maireke, Senior Special Assistant on Hausa Community Affairs to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, have joined Jos North PDP stakeholders to formally adopt the governor for reelection in 2027.
The adoption came during a grand endorsement rally and solidarity walk held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Jos, which began at Polo Roundabout and terminated at the Ornate Pavilion where the ceremony reached its climax.
Addressing the crowd, Alhaji Yaro Maireke declared that the Hausa community has fully aligned with Governor Mutfwang’s bid, praising his developmental strides.
He noted that the governor’s focus on road infrastructure such as the rehabilitation of the ‘Yan Taya Road and the introduction of Metro Buses to ease transportation challenges have directly touched the lives of Hausa’s community in Jos North.
Maireke says,and I quote: “As I stand before you today, I proudly announce that the Hausa community is part of this adoption of Governor Mutfwang’s 2027 reelection bid.
Since 2023, his people-centered leadership has improved the lives of our people. We are lucky to have him, and he deserves another term,” Maireke said to thunderous applause.
The endorsement rally drew political juggernauts across Plateau State, including former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Simon Mwadkwon; Executive Chairman of Jos South, Hon. Silas Patrick Dung; Commissioner for Land and Survey,Hon Peter Nyam Gai ,Commissioner for Water Resources and Energye ,Hon. Bashir Lawandi Datti; Jos North Deputy Chairman, Hon. Sani Kabiru Garkuwa; and Jos North PDP Chairman, Hon. Elijah Azi.
Their collective presence added weight to the endorsement and showcased broad-based support for the governor across ethnic and political lines.
In a formal session at the Ornate Pavilion, Hon. John Kyohroh Christopher, Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, moved the motion for endorsement, stressing that Jos North has witnessed unprecedented transformation under Governor Mutfwang.
The motion was seconded by Hajiya Jamila Gwandu, signaling the Hausa Community women’s strong support for the project.
The hall erupted in cheers as delegates unanimously adopted the motion.
Earlier, the solidarity walk set the tone for the day. Thousands of supporters, dressed in party colours, danced to the venue of occasion waving banners and placards reading “Muftwang 2027, Our Governor, Our Choice.
” The infectious energy electrified the streets of Jos as chants of “Sai Mutfwang 2027” echoed through the crowd.
Stakeholders agreed that Governor Mutfwang, since assuming office in 2023, has governed with a people-first agenda.
His road rehabilitation projects, public transportation innovations, and bold steps to ease economic pressures have earned him widespread acceptance.
With Hausa leaders now publicly aligning with the PDP in Jos North, the adoption of Governor Caleb Mutfwang for a second term in 2027 has become more than a political project that has a unifying movement across ethnic and political divides in Plateau State.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has assured Plateau citizens that his administration is fully committed to ending insecurity, stressing that peace and justice remain the foundation for a united state.
Speaking at the North-Central Stakeholders Peace Dialogue organized by Central TV at Crispan Hotel, Rayfield, Jos, the governor announced the establishment of an Inter-Religious Peace Dialogue Committee to tackle rising hostilities.
The committee, co-chaired by Professor Yarsat and the Emir of Wase (who doubles as Chairman of Jamatu Nasiru Islam, JNI), is mandated to recommend practical measures for peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and harmony among Plateau’s diverse ethnic and religious groups.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Joyce Ramnap, Governor Mutfwang admitted that some of the challenges raised were complex and beyond the immediate reach of the state government but maintained that his administration was taking bold steps to address them decisively.
“This government will not rest until peace returns to Plateau. The Inter-Religious Dialogue reflects equal representation of all ethnic and religious groups. Our mantra is simple :
no matter your tribe or faith, as long as you are in Plateau, we must work together to make it a better place,” the governor declared.
Earlier in the dialogue, fiery preacher and Founder of EBOMI Ministry, Prophet Isa El-Buba, sent a stern warning to Fulani leaders in Plateau State and across Nigeria.
He cautioned that the continuous killings linked to Fulani militias could ignite a crisis that their future generations would not survive.
“You may win the fight, but you cannot win the war. If these barbaric killings persist, a time will come when Nigeria will be made uninhabitable for your descendants,” El-Buba warned.
The clergyman, himself a Fulani and grandfather of eight, revealed that his own family divided between Christians and Muslims, has lived in peace for decades on the Plateau. He urged Fulani leaders to emulate such peaceful coexistence.
Drawing from the experience of Maiduguri, El-Buba reminded the audience how Kanuris who supported Boko Haram insurgency eventually reaped bitter consequences when their children joined the ungodly war.
The outspoken preacher dismissed narratives of farmer-herder clashes, describing the killings as deliberate acts of genocide and terrorism.
He openly challenged Miyetti Allah Association, alleging that “80 percent of the bloodshed in Plateau is linked to them.”
“Security agencies must be fair and just. If a Fulani is arrested for killing, deal with him. If a Berom is guilty, deal with him too.
Selective justice cannot solve the problem it only fuels more bloodshed,” he declared.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has joined Nigerians in mourning the death of former Military Administrator of Plateau State, Colonel Muhammad Mana (Rtd.), who passed away on Saturday, August 23, 2025, after a brief illness.
In a condolence statement signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, and made available to Gnews, Governor Mutfwang described Mana’s death as “a monumental loss not only to his immediate family but also to Plateau State and Nigeria at large.”
Recalling the late administrator’s service to the nation, the Governor highlighted Mana’s remarkable tenure as Military Administrator of Plateau State between 1993 and 1996, before serving as Senator representing Adamawa North Senatorial District.
Mutfwang praised the deceased as “a fountain of knowledge, a bridge-builder, and a leader whose immense contributions helped shape policies and actions that advanced national development.”
The Governor further noted that the selfless and impactful contributions of Colonel Mana during his tenure in Plateau remain visible, stressing that his footprints of development still speak decades after he left office.
He commended the late statesman’s pivotal role in promoting peace, unity, and national cohesion, insisting that Nigeria has lost a patriotic guide whose wisdom was still much needed in its journey to greatness.
“The transition of Col. Mana has created a painful void, especially at a time when his counsel and patriotic guidance are greatly needed,” the Governor lamented.
On behalf of his family, the government, and the people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Senator Muhammad Mana. They prayed that Almighty God grant them strength, comfort, and peace in this trying time.
The Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, has joined eminent Nigerians in celebrating the 58th birthday of distinguished legal scholar and Chairman of the Nigeria Law Reform Commission, Professor CJ Dakas, SAN.
In a goodwill message signed by his Press Secretary, Philip Eplong, and made available to “Gnews” on Saturday, August 23, 2025, the Speaker extolled Professor Dakas as an erudite scholar and exemplary professional whose career journey has brought pride to Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
Tracing his rise in the legal profession, the Speaker described Professor Dakas’s elevation to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and his appointment as Professor of Law as landmark milestones that positioned him among the finest legal minds in the country.
Hon. Daniel further highlighted the celebrant’s far-reaching contributions to national discourse and development, noting his patriotic roles in various high-profile committees and panels where his expertise has shaped reforms in the justice system.
He recalled that Professor Dakas’s recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Chairman of the Nigeria Law Reform Commission was a clear testament to the confidence reposed in him by the highest levels of leadership.
According to the Speaker, the celebrant remains a beacon of inspiration to students and young professionals who see in him a rare blend of brilliance, humility, and courage.
He added that Professor Dakas’s intellectual depth and integrity have left indelible imprints on Nigeria’s legal and academic space.
While congratulating him on attaining 58 years, Rt. Hon. Daniel prayed for more fruitful years of service, sound health, and divine wisdom for Professor Dakas as he continues to shape the legal profession and advance justice in Nigeria.
Former Member of the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Musa Bagos, has urged Nigerian youths to support trustworthy leaders who embody sincerity, integrity, and servant leadership, pointing to Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, as a shining example of such leadership.
Bagos made the call on Friday, August 22nd, 2025, at a youth summit organized in his honor by youths from the Plateau North Senatorial Zone, held at the Sarau Event Center, Jos.
Addressing journalists at the event, Bagos described Governor Mutfwang as a God-sent leader who has restored confidence in governance by keeping to his promises.
“We should not trust politicians who come with the loudest drum, repeating issues that have always been there.
That is why today, we boast of having a governor like Caleb Mutfwang, a leader who matches words with action and whose word is his bond,” he declared.
Currently aspiring to represent Plateau North in the Senate come 2027, the former lawmaker explained that the summit was initiated by a coalition of youths from the Northern Zone who wanted a platform to anticipate and discuss issues affecting them.
“In line with my aspiration, the youths articulated their vision, and I keyed into it because it aligns with my dream for Plateau North and Nigeria,” Bagos said.
He stressed that rather than rushing to the streets with empty promises, the summit was designed as a town hall engagement to give youths ownership of the political process.
Hon. Bagos lamented that since independence, Nigerian politicians have recycled the same campaign promises without delivery.
He said this generation of youths must change the narrative.
“This time around, we have to start from discussions like this. Tomorrow, when we are talking to the people, they will say yes, these were the issues we brought forward,” he stated.
On the worsening insecurity ravaging Plateau and Nigeria, Bagos called for a complete rethink.
He recalled that 20 years ago, Plateau’s crisis was largely farmer-herder clashes which, according to him, were poorly handled politically.
“Because the right diagnosis was not used then, the crisis has today snowballed into banditry, kidnapping, and land grabbing,” he argued.
He insisted that Nigeria needs leaders who can confront insecurity with sincerity and clarity :
“We should bring leaders that know the nitty-gritty of solving problems, not those who sugarcoat issues.
By the Grace of God, under my watch, we will call a spade a spade,” Bagos vowed.
The climax of the summit was the unanimous adoption of Hon. Musa Bagos by youths from the six local governments of Plateau North as their preferred candidate for the 2027 Senatorial election.
Shop owners in Jos and Bukuru Metropolis who fragrantly disobeyed government directives are now facing demolition, as the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) has begun full enforcement of quit notices on illegal structures.
On Thursday 21st August 2025, JMDB General Manager, Arc. Hart Bankat, led directors and staff of the board, alongside the Director-General of the Plateau Environmental Protection Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), Hon. Samuel Dapiya, to monitor compliance at various locations across the metropolis.
The team’s first stop was Zarmaganda, near RCM Primary School, where Bankat confronted stubborn traders who had ignored repeated notices since March 2024, with fresh reminders served again in May 2025.
He reminded them that government had shown more than enough patience for over a year, stressing that demolition will now commence without further delay.
Bankat urged the traders to quickly organize themselves according to their line of business, assuring them that government is working to provide a secure and suitable location for them to continue their trade.
Lamenting the dangers posed by the illegal structures, he noted that many had turned into hideouts for criminals. According to him, theft, phone snatching, cultism, and violent assaults are now common in such places.
He linked these activities to the gruesome killing of Mr. Bitrus Lomak, a well-known rental business operator (B. Balloons), who was gunned down by suspected cultists on August 18, 2025, at Zarmaganda.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers first shot into the air before targeting Lomak with three bullets in cold blood.
Although the law allows 21 days’ notice for permanent structures and 72 hours for temporary ones, the JMDB boss explained that government had deliberately delayed enforcement out of human consideration a grace period he said traders abused.
During the inspection, officials uncovered shocking scenes of poor hygiene. Some food vendors were found cooking directly on blocked drainages littered with refuse, raising serious public health concerns.
The enforcement exercise covered Zarmaganda, opposite CIC Church, Dadin Kowa First Gate, and Sparkling Junction.
On his part, PEPSA Director-General, Hon. Dapiya, cautioned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drainages.
He warned that such reckless habits worsen flooding and disease outbreaks, urging communities to embrace regular sanitation.
Despite heavy rains, sanitation trucks were deployed to evacuate blocked drainages during the operation.
It will be recalled that Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, in March 2024, signed Executive Order 003 under the Greater Jos Master Plan, aimed at tackling illegal structures and restoring urban order.
Officials say the demolition now underway is part of efforts to reclaim the city from lawlessness, improve sanitation, and dismantle hideouts fueling criminal activities.
—
👉 Alex, do you want me to make the headline even punchier by directly tying it to the killing of Mr. Lomak (e.g., “After Murder of Businessman, Jos Govt Targets Illegal Shops, Defiant Traders”) — or should we keep the focus squarely on the disobedience angle?
A storm is brewing in Nigeria’s ivory towers as a coalition of leading academics has raised alarm over what they describe as the “reckless commercialization and illegal use of academic titles” across the country.
In an open petition addressed to the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Honourable Minister of Education, the Chairmen of the House and Senate Committees on Education, the National Security Adviser, and the Inspector General of Police, the Coalition of Academics and Professors for Qualified Use of Academic Titles (CAPQAT), led by Prof. Adeyemi Johnson Ademowo, warned that Nigeria’s academic integrity is under siege.
According to the petition, the abuse of titles such as “Dr.” and “Professor” has now become rampant, aided by diploma mills in the Benin Republic, questionable bible colleges, unrecognized professional bodies, and dubious foreign universities.
The coalition cited instances where individuals conferred with honorary doctorates, graduates of unaccredited bible colleges, and recipients of paper degrees from diploma mills now prefix “Dr.” before their names, misleading the public and ridiculing genuine scholars.
More disturbing, CAPQAT alleged that Prowess University and other unaccredited institutions in neighbouring Benin Republic have turned the trade in fake doctorates into a business empire, encouraging Nigerians to parade such titles as earned qualifications.
Even more shocking is the revelation that an Abuja-based realtor allegedly acquired and now parades himself as a “Professor of Entrepreneurship”, claiming the title was “dashed” to him by a questionable American institution.
Others, the coalition said, have joined the bandwagon, boasting similar titles from the so-called American University of Business and Social Sciences (AUBSS) and related unrecognized bodies.
Prof. Ademowo stressed that Nigeria already has enough laws to punish such fraud but lamented that enforcement has been weak.
He referenced provisions in the Criminal Code Act (Cap. C38, S463) prescribing up to 14 years imprisonment or a ₦500,000 fine for falsification of academic credentials; the NUC Act (1974), which prescribes up to ₦1 million in fines; and the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria Act (1993), which prescribes up to 2 years imprisonment or a ₦200,000 fine for unauthorized use of academic titles.
“The problem is not the absence of law,” the petition declared, “but the absence of enforcement.”
In the petition, CAPQAT demanded that the Federal Government :
– Enforce existing laws against fake use of “Dr.” and “Prof.” titles.
– Blacklist and ban dubious institutions such as Prowess University and AUBSS.
– Clarify publicly that honorary doctorates, bible college degrees, and professional body “doctorates” are symbolic and do not confer the right to prefix “Dr.”
– Launch a nationwide awareness campaign to sensitize Nigerians and the media on the proper use of academic titles.
– Institute a Joint Task Force involving the NUC, Ministry of Education, DSS, and Police to monitor and prosecute offenders.
Prof. Ademowo, who signed the petition on behalf of the coalition, warned that “every unqualified ‘Dr.’ or fake ‘Professor’ diminishes the sweat, rigour, and intellectual labour of those who have genuinely earned these distinctions.”
He called for scapegoats to be made of offenders to restore the dignity of Nigeria’s higher education system. “The time to act is now,” CAPQAT concluded.
Jos, Plateau State, was thrown into a sober mood on Thursday as former Governor Joshua Chibi Dariye led his entourage to the residence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, to pay a heartfelt condolence visit.
The visit followed the passing of the Chairman’s mother, Mama Lydia Toma Yilwatda, whose death has continued to attract a flood of sympathies and tributes from across Nigeria.
On arrival, Dariye expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the matriarch, describing her as “a rare mother of virtue and character, whose footprints of discipline, faith, and resilience will forever inspire generations on the Plateau and beyond.”
The former Governor, visibly moved, offered prayers for God’s comfort and strength upon the bereaved family, urging them to uphold the values Mama Lydia stood for.
In his response, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, overwhelmed by the show of solidarity, thanked Dariye and his delegation for standing with his family in their darkest hour.
He noted that such gestures of compassion and unity from leaders across divides reaffirm the Plateau spirit of togetherness.
Mama Lydia, until her passing, was revered as a pillar of her community, a woman whose unwavering devotion to family, faith, and humanity etched her name in the hearts of many.
…….Says Plateau Daughter’s Rise To National Honour.
By, giwa alex, Jos
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has felicitated with veteran broadcaster, Stella Din-Jacob, on her appointment as the new Executive Director, News, of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
In a congratulatory message dated August 22, 2025, and signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang described Din-Jacob’s elevation as both a personal honour and a testament to Plateau State’s proud tradition of producing outstanding professionals who contribute immensely to national development.
The Governor expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding a worthy daughter of Plateau for such a strategic position, stressing that the appointment recognizes Din-Jacob’s professional distinction and her decades-long impact on the Nigerian media landscape.
He traced her remarkable career spanning Silverbird Group, Minaj Broadcast Group, Channels Television, and TVC News, where her contributions significantly shaped public discourse and promoted national cohesion.
Governor Mutfwang particularly commended her leadership in steering one of Nigeria’s largest newsrooms, noting her vision, balance, and fairness in reporting, which have strengthened democratic values and influenced governance.
While celebrating her resilience, integrity, and commitment to justice and equity, the Governor urged Din-Jacob to continue upholding the virtues of excellence, empathy, tolerance, and accommodation, qualities he said embody the Plateau spirit and are essential for peace and unity in Nigeria.
The Plateau State House of Assembly has pledged full legislative support for the implementation of resolutions reached at the just-concluded 11th Plateau State Council of Health, vowing to turn the outcomes into actionable laws and policies that will reposition the state’s health sector.
The four-day council, held from 19h to 21st August 2025 at Crispan Hotel, Jos, was themed: “Repositioning Plateau State Health System Towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage.”
The annual Council of Health has over the years served as a key platform for policymakers, professionals, and stakeholders to review health policies and chart new directions.
While previous councils produced far-reaching recommendations, many were left at the level of communiqués without legislative backing. This year, lawmakers say, will be different.
Addressing journalists at the closing session, the Member representing Langtang -North Central Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Health, Hon. Nambole Listic, declared that the Assembly would not allow the 2025 resolutions to gather dust.
“As legislators, we participated actively in this council because of its importance to our people. From what we have seen and heard, these resolutions will guide us in drafting policies that we will send to the House for legislative approval. With the insights gathered here, we will put up a strong framework that will reposition our health sector and bring Plateau closer to achieving Sustainable Development Goal No3,” Hon. Listic said.
The lawmaker, who also doubles as the Majority Whip, emphasized that the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a collective aspiration of the House.
“Universal Health Coverage is what every legislator yearns for because if our constituents are healthy, they spend less on treatment and have more strength to carry out their businesses effectively. A healthy population is a productive population,” he stressed.
Hon. Listic assured that the 10th Plateau State House of Assembly is determined to back the resolutions of the 11th Council with strong legislative instruments to ensure better healthcare delivery across the state.
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Thursday, August 21, 2025, joined family, friends, and associates in celebrating the birthday of the former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and Special Adviser on Legislative Matters, Rt. Hon. Nuhu Ayuba Abok.
In a glowing congratulatory message, Governor Mutfwang described Abok as a visionary leader and vibrant Plateau youth, whose sterling record of selfless service continues to inspire and positively impact society.
The Governor recalled the celebrant’s courageous leadership during critical moments in the State’s history, stressing that Abok’s steadfast defence of the Plateau heritage and people’s collective aspirations remains unforgettable.
Mutfwang urged the celebrant to remain resolute in upholding the timeless values of justice, fairness, and compassion, virtues he said embody the true spirit of Plateau.
He further commended Abok’s dedication to public service, peace, and unity, adding that his commitment to grassroots development and communal living has strengthened the bonds of brotherhood and resilience among Plateau citizens.
Highlighting his bridge-building efforts, the Governor praised the former Speaker’s role in fostering inclusiveness and promoting people-centred leadership that transcends political, ethnic, and religious divides.
Governor Mutfwang heartily congratulated Rt. Hon. Abok, praying for renewed strength, divine wisdom, and abundant health as he continues to render quality legislative counsel for the progress and development of Plateau.
……..Chairman Dung Races To Scene, Assures Government’s Quick Intervention
By,giwa alex, Jos
A violent rainstorm on Tuesday night wreaked havoc in Kerana Village, Bukuru Ward of Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, destroying no fewer than 30 houses and leaving many residents stranded. The storm also tore down the main entrance gate of the Jos South Local Government Secretariat, forcing the council to divert operations through an emergency exit.
In the early hours after the incident, the Executive Chairman of Jos South Local Government Council, Hon. Patrick Silas Dung, stormed the affected community to see things for himself. He sympathized with displaced families, offering words of encouragement and urging solidarity among residents.
“This is a very unfortunate incident,” he said. “It’s a natural occurrence, a storm, not a flood.
We will also assess other communities to know the level of damage and determine our intervention.”
On his arrival at the Secretariat, the Chairman ordered the collapsed gate cordoned off to avert casualties.
He disclosed that technical experts and relevant agencies had been contacted to safely dismantle the structure before it causes further harm.
“We have already created an alternative entrance into the council secretariat which I used today.
Thankfully, the main building is still intact, except for some debris around the carports,” Dung explained.
Though no lives were lost, the storm left several people injured.
The victims are currently undergoing medical checks, including scans, to rule out internal bleeding.
“Our joy is that there are no deaths. Those injured are being treated and monitored in the hospital,” the Chairman confirmed.
Dung appealed to residents, security agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to provide shelter and relief to displaced families.
“We are our brothers’ keepers,” he said. “If you know you have space to accommodate some of the displaced, please come forward.”
The Chairman also revealed that he had contacted the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
According to him, the Director-General has pledged immediate support to cushion the hardship of victims while long-term recovery plans are being considered.
“We will do everything possible as a council to reduce the hardship caused by this disaster,” Dung concludes
In what has been described as a landmark reform in the education sector, the Edo State Government has announced sweeping new policies set to take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session.
The Ministry of Education, in a decisive statement on Wednesday, said the policies are designed to bring stability, consistency, and quality learning across schools while easing the burden on parents.
First on the list is the Textbook Reuse Policy.
Henceforth, younger siblings will be allowed to use already approved textbooks purchased by older ones.
All government-approved textbooks will remain in circulation for a minimum of four years before any review.
Next is the new guideline on school celebrations.
The government has placed a ban on graduation parties for nursery, kindergarten, and primary six pupils.
From now on, only pupils completing Basic Education (JSS3) and Senior Secondary School (SS3), will be permitted to hold graduation ceremonies.
Even at that, only modest celebrations will be allowed, while flamboyant parties and proms have been completely outlawed.
Perhaps the most revolutionary of all is the introduction of compulsory skills training for all JSS 3 students.
Beginning in the 2025/2026 session, every JSS 3 graduate will walk away with two certificates :
The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), and A Skills Acquisition Certificate in a chosen trade subject.
According to the Ministry, this move aligns with the inclusion of new trade subjects in the national curriculum and seeks to ensure that students leave school not only with academic knowledge but also with practical entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive world.
With these far-reaching reforms, the Edo State Government insists it is determined to raise a new generation of students who are innovative, self-reliant, and globally competitive.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Mama Ruth Sati Dakwak, mother of the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Blessing Dalyop Dakwak.
Leading a delegation to the family residence in Jos, Governor Mutfwang described the late matriarch as a virtuous woman who lived a fulfilled life and raised children who continue to uphold her values.
“Death is painful, but when we live long to a ripe age, we must also say, thank you, Lord. Every day we have to live is a privilege, and when God allows us to reach old age, we can only look back and be grateful for the opportunity,” the Governor remarked.
He praised Mama Ruth Sati Dakwak’s enduring legacy, noting that her life bore fruit evident in the achievements of her children.
“I believe Mama lived a good life. The evidence is in the children she has left behind. If she hadn’t done so, they would not have risen to where they are today.
Certainly, death will always leave a void, but that vacuum can only be filled by the good Lord. For those of us alive, it is also a time to reflect on our own lives, correct our mistakes, and ensure that when our turn comes, we will not be found wanting,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang encouraged the family to take solace in the enduring memories of their mother and the values she instilled, while praying for God’s strength and comfort for them at this time of loss.
Responding on behalf of the family, Justice Yakubu Pam Dakwak, former Chief Judge of Plateau State, expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for his presence and words of comfort during their bereavement.
The condolence visit was witnessed by senior government officials, members of the judiciary, traditional rulers, and community representatives, who joined the Governor in consoling the Dakwak family.
The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has restated its firm commitment to advancing healthcare development in Plateau State.
This assurance was given at the opening of the 11th Plateau State Council on Health in Jos, where the organisation’s Regional Manager for Jos, Mr. Timzing Miri-Dashe, represented the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Patrick Sunday Dakum.
Miri-Dashe said IHVN was attending the high-powered council meeting as a partner and stakeholder in the state’s healthcare progress.
He emphasized that the Plateau State Ministry of Health needs the expertise and collaboration of development partners to strengthen policies and improve service delivery for citizens.
He explained that IHVN’s presence at the event was a clear demonstration of its readiness to work hand-in-hand with the government and other stakeholders to achieve better health outcomes.
Reflecting on the opening session, Miri-Dashe described the ceremony as “quite impressive.”
He observed that Governor Caleb Mutfwang officially declared the council open, while goodwill messages were delivered by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and a representative of the Federal Minister of Health.
Looking ahead, the IHVN representative expressed optimism that the four-day council meeting will provide a solid platform to address critical health challenges, deliberate on policies, and chart a fresh course for improved healthcare delivery in Plateau State.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has been hailed for his people-centered reforms in the health sector, with particular focus on primary healthcare delivery across the state.
Delivering the commendation on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025, at the opening of the 11th Plateau State Council on Health, the Executive Director of the Plateau State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Raymond Juryit, said the governor has demonstrated “a strong and unwavering commitment” to transforming the health sector.
According to Dr. Juryit, Governor Mutfwang’s administration has already revitalized 82 primary healthcare facilities, with 10 fully completed, and is working in top gear to ensure at least one functional health facility in every political ward of the state.
He emphasized that the administration understands the crucial role of health insurance in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) but lamented that low enrollment rates remain a major challenge that must be urgently tackled.
To address manpower gaps, Dr. Juryit revealed that the government has approved the recruitment of 1,450 new healthcare workers, including skilled bed attendants, laboratory scientists, pharmacists, and doctors.
In addition, he disclosed that the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP) has been launched to provide solar power to 25 primary healthcare centers, ensuring uninterrupted services particularly in rural areas.
On medical supplies, Dr. Juryit stated that the administration is collaborating with the Drug and Consumables Management Agency to make essential drugs readily available at primary health facilities across Plateau State.
Backing these reforms with massive funding, he revealed that Governor Mutfwang has invested ₦2 billion in medical infrastructure and secured over $400,000 worth of medical supplies through partnerships with international organizations.
Dr. Juryit noted that these measures are geared towards improving access to quality healthcare, reducing out-of-pocket spending by citizens, and enhancing overall well-being, especially in underserved communities.
“Governor Mutfwang has shown clear leadership and commitment.
His vision is to make healthcare accessible, affordable, and sustainable for every Plateau citizen.
This is not just governance, but a revolution in health delivery,” Dr. Raymond Juryit declared.
In what he described as a “sacred promise to every Plateau citizen,” Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across Plateau State.
The Governor made the declaration while addressing stakeholders at the 11th Plateau State Council on Health in Jos, stressing that access to healthcare must never be a privilege but a guaranteed right for all.
Governor Mutfwang reeled out groundbreaking strides that have reshaped the state’s health landscape, including :
Expansion of primary healthcare facilities across the 17 LGAs, with a target of at least one fully functional health center in every ward.
Boost in PLASCHEMA enrollment, providing special cover for pregnant women, under-fives, the elderly, and people living with disabilities.
Strengthening of the State Drug & Commodities Agency, ensuring safe and affordable medicines.
Overhaul of the Plateau State Specialist Hospital with 22 new consultants, ₦2 billion worth of cutting-edge equipment, and the launch of electronic medical records.
Acknowledging lingering gaps such as underserved rural areas and uneven health worker distribution, Mutfwang assured citizens that his government is acting decisively : “We are recruiting, training, and retaining health professionals with incentives for rural postings and safer work environments.
Our vision is clear ,no Plateau citizen should be denied care because of location or cost.”
Shared Responsibility The Governor called for collective action, insisting that healthcare transformation is not the government’s task alone :
“A healthy Plateau is a prosperous Plateau. Every professional, policymaker, partner, and citizen must play their role.
We will invest, we will reform, and we will lead with transparency. The time to act is now.”
The Honourable Commissioner for Health, in his goodwill address, hailed the Governor’s leadership, describing governance as “stewardship and accountability,” while noting the national recognition accorded to Mutfwang by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the House Committee on Health.
The Council, themed “Repositioning the Plateau State Health System Towards Universal Health Coverage,” convened a broad spectrum of stakeholders including the Plateau State House of Assembly, civil society, traditional rulers, WHO, UNICEF, Carter Center, and APIN. All pledged renewed support for Plateau’s march towards UHC.
The Chief Medical Director of Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), Dr. Pokop Bupwatda, has strongly advocated that health workers should be posted to serve in their local government areas of origin, insisting that such a policy would revolutionize primary healthcare delivery in Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
Dr. Bupwatda made this passionate call on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025, during an interview with journalists at the 11th Plateau State Council on Health held at Crispan Hotel, Jos.
According to the CMD, posting personnel outside their communities often leads to divided attention and avoidable loss of lives, as many workers shuttle between their work stations and their families.
“Why post someone from Jos North to the Southern Zone? He will be distracted, and the job will suffer.
If we identify people within their locality, train them for their health centers, and retain them there, they will serve wholeheartedly because they already belong to that community,” Bupwatda stressed.
He explained that training six to ten locals per community would eliminate the burden of transfers, accommodation challenges, and absenteeism, ensuring a steady healthcare presence in rural areas.
Dr. Bupwatda also urged the government to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with personnel to guarantee comfort while serving in rural postings.
He emphasized the need for housing, electricity or alternative power, internet access, and proper welfare support, to keep them connected and motivated.
Highlighting the role of technology, the CMD said healthcare workers in rural communities can always consult senior doctors remotely during emergencies.
“If a worker faces a case beyond their expertise, they should be able to call a consultant for guidance.
If it requires referral, the patient will be directed to JUTH or another facility with the right human resources,” he explained.
He underscored the importance of the State Council on Health, describing it as the right platform to design policies that can fix primary healthcare challenges.
“This is the practical way to close the gaps and ensure health workers are always available for the people within rural communities,” he added.
On wider reforms, Dr. Bupwatda revealed that under his leadership, JUTH has keyed into the National Emergency Medical System (NEMAS) launched by the Federal Ministry of Health under Dr. Ali Pati, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The initiative ensures that victims of accidents, gunshot wounds, snakebites, and pregnancy-related complications receive treatment free of charge.
He noted that more state governments are already buying into the scheme to expand emergency healthcare coverage nationwide.
“When healthcare workers live with the people they serve, there will be commitment, continuity, and better outcomes for citizens,” he declared.
The Chairman of Riyom Local Government Area, Hon. Sati Bature Shuwa, has raised alarm over the worsening insecurity ravaging his council, appealing passionately to Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, to empower his people to protect their ancestral land.
Hon. Shuwa made the appeal on Monday, August 18th, 2025, while addressing journalists at the opening of the 11th Plateau State Council on Health held at Crispan Hotel, Rayfield Road, beside the Air Force Base in Jos.
The council boss lamented that Riyom, the gateway into Plateau State, has come under sustained attacks allegedly carried out by armed Fulani militias, creating fear, panic, and displacing many who would have contributed to the development of the area.
According to him, the persistent insecurity has discouraged non-indigenes from accepting postings to Riyom, thereby crippling both civil service operations and private businesses.
He further decried the devastating effect of the crisis on healthcare delivery, stressing that hospitals and health workers have been unable to function optimally due to the climate of fear.
Despite the grim situation, Hon. Shuwa commended Governor Mutfwang, describing him as a leader with “telescopic vision,” a “political giant,” and one who effectively plays the dual roles of father and mother of the state.
He noted that the four-day health council meeting (August 18–21) would help chart a new course for healthcare delivery in Plateau State, provided peace is restored.
The chairman concluded by praying for Governor Mutfwang’s success, stressing that the people of Riyom are ready to defend their land if given the backing, while urging government and security agencies not to abandon the council to the mercy of attackers.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, on Tuesday 19th August 2025, paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, following the death of his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda, who passed away at the age of 83 after a prolonged illness.
Arriving at Prof. Yilwatda’s Abuja residence, the Governor described Mama Lydia as a virtuous woman of deep faith, simplicity, and courage who nurtured her children in Godly values children who today are contributing positively to humanity.
“For us, the death of any mother on the Plateau is a loss to all of us,” Governor Mutfwang said.
“We take comfort in the fact that Mama lived a worthy life. She served the Lord alongside her husband and, even after his passing, remained steadfast in God’s service.
My prayer always is that we should be the ones to bury our parents, and not the other way round.”
The Governor further highlighted Mama Lydia’s resilience, kindness, and sacrifices, noting that her passing at a time when Prof. Yilwatda shoulders huge national responsibilities creates a painful void.
On behalf of his family, the Plateau State Government, and the entire people of the state, Governor Mutfwang extended his deepest sympathies to Prof. Yilwatda and his siblings, praying that God would strengthen and comfort them in this season of grief.
In his response, Prof. Yilwatda expressed profound gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for the condolence visit, describing it as a major source of comfort to him and his family.
He paid glowing tribute to his late mother, whom he described as a woman of resilience, faith, and compassion, who devoted her life to raising her seven children in the fear of God and instilling in them values that continue to shape their lives.
“Mama served the Lord faithfully and left behind a lasting legacy that will continue to shine brightly through her children,” the APC National Chairman said, adding that the family takes solace in her fulfilled life of service to God and humanity.
Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, was agog on Monday, August 18, 2025, as the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, FNADM, led a high-powered delegation of the denomination on an appreciation visit to Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
The visit, according to Rev. Akanji, was to register the Convention’s profound gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support of Baptist missions and institutions, especially in the education sector.
He recalled how Governor Mutfwang’s timely intervention had salvaged the Baptist School in Jos after sections of the institution were destroyed by a devastating rainstorm.
Tracing the historic footprints of the denomination, the President explained that the Baptist Church, which arrived in Nigeria in 1850, has for more than 170 years contributed significantly to the nation’s moral, spiritual, and educational development.
He cited legacy schools such as the Baptist Boys’ High School, Abeokuta, which produced some of Nigeria’s finest leaders, as proof of the denomination’s enduring impact.
“We are grateful that Governor Mutfwang shares our vision of preserving mission schools that have shaped generations through Godly Training,” Rev. Akanji declared.
He also pledged the Convention’s continued partnership with government in education and healthcare, stressing that the Baptist denomination would “work together and labour together until the mission of adding value to society is fulfilled.”
Rev. Akanji did not fail to acknowledge the Governor’s gesture in appointing one of their distinguished alumni, Mrs. Helen Chundusu, as a Permanent Secretary in his administration, describing it as a testament to Mutfwang’s inclusive leadership style.
In his response, Governor Mutfwang extolled the Baptist Church for its pioneering role in Nigeria’s growth, particularly in education and healthcare.
He described the denomination as one of the earliest missionary movements to plant roots in the country, whose impact has remained immeasurable.
“As a student of church history, I am deeply aware of the invaluable role of the Baptist movement in the body of Christ globally,” the Governor said.
“Not many people realize that the Baptist denomination was among the first to establish its presence in Nigeria.
While you may not boast the biggest structures, your missionary impact has spread far and wide.”
Recalling his fellowship with the Baptist Chapel during his days at the University of Jos, Governor Mutfwang further commended the establishment of institutions such as Bowen University, which he described as “one of Nigeria’s leading private universities ,not built for profit, but for service to humanity.”
The Governor assured the delegation that his administration would continue to advocate for the preservation of mission schools even at the federal level, emphasizing that “the church has been at the forefront of education in Nigeria, benefitting people of all faiths.
We must not allow the gates of these institutions to be shut.”
He concluded by promising sustained partnership with the Baptist Convention in raising young leaders of integrity and strengthening health systems in Plateau State.
“For us, the services you render go beyond Nigeria. They directly benefit Plateau State as well. Be assured that we will continue to work together and labour together until God’s purpose for establishing these institutions is fulfilled,” he assured.
The Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) has joined the Yilwada family in mourning the death of their beloved Matriarch, Mama Lydia Yilwada, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwada, who passed away on Sunday, August 17th, 2025, at the age of 83.
In a moving condolence message, the Association, through its Electoral Committee Chairman, Comrade Shabul Mazadu, described Mama Lydia as a woman of rare virtue, a devoted Christian, and an exemplary mother whose footprints of humility, kindness, and godliness remain indelible in the sands of time.
Comrade Mazadu, speaking on behalf of the entire members of PPA, noted that Mama Lydia was not only a blessing to her immediate family and the Ngas nation, but also to the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Plateau State, and Nigeria at large.
“Mama was a peaceful, loving, and caring woman who touched lives beyond her family circle.
Her memory will remain evergreen as a wife who stood by her husband in service to God, and as a mother who nurtured her children in the fear of the Lord,” the statement read.
The Association further encouraged Professor Nentawe and the Yilwada family to accept the loss as an act of God and to be comforted by the assurance of eternal life promised to the faithful.
Comrade Mazadu added that Mama’s passing was not just a personal loss to the family but a collective pain to the Plateau people and beneficiaries of Nentawe’s benevolence, compassion, and leadership ingenuity.
The statement concluded with prayers for divine comfort and strength for the family in this moment of grief :
“May the Almighty God grant the Yilwada family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and may Mama Lydia’s gentle soul find eternal rest with the Lord.”
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Plateau State Chapter, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
Family sources confirmed that Mama Lydia died in the early hours of Sunday, August 17th, 2025, at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), at the age of 83.
In its condolence message, IPAC described the death as a painful loss, not only to the Yilwatda family but also to Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
The council noted that Mama Lydia lived an exemplary life of humility, Christian devotion and women leadership, especially through her active role in the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN).
“Alongside her late husband, Reverend Toma Goshewe Yilwatda, Mama Lydia contributed immensely to the growth of the church across Borno, Yobe, Bauchi and Plateau States.
She was a source of wisdom and motherly counsel, whose prayers uplifted many,” the statement read.
The council further consoled Professor Yilwatda, urging him to find strength in the enduring legacy his late mother left behind, which is clearly reflected in her children and in the countless lives she impacted.
“On behalf of all political parties under the umbrella of IPAC Plateau, we join in mourning with Professor Yilwatda and his family.
We pray the Almighty God grants her soul eternal rest and comfort the bereaved family at this difficult time.”
Plateau State was thrown into mourning as news broke of the passing of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda.
Mama Lydia, aged 83, slept in the Lord after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy steeped in faith, courage, and selfless service.
In a heartfelt condolence message, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, joined thousands in grief, describing the departed matriarch as “a woman of uncommon strength, love, and sacrifice, whose life was defined by service to God and humanity.”
Governor Mutfwang recalled Mama Lydia’s steadfast devotion to the Christian faith, noting how she and her late husband faithfully labored in God’s vineyard, raising children, touching lives, and inspiring hope across communities.
He said her earthly sojourn was marked by compassion, wisdom, tolerance, and kindness, qualities that made her a beacon to all who encountered her.
He further observed that attaining the age of 83 was a rare blessing, sustained by divine grace, and urged the Yilwatda family to find strength in the enduring legacy Mama leaves behind.
“Though Mama’s passing has created a painful void, her exemplary life remains a fountain of comfort, and God’s promises remain unfailing,” the Governor consoled.
On behalf of his family, the Government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended his deepest sympathies to Prof. Nentawe, his siblings, and the entire Yilwatda clan, praying that God’s comfort and peace will abide with them in this season of grief.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has unleashed a fiery attack on Saturday’s by-elections, branding the exercise a sham riddled with violence, vote buying, and brazen manipulation allegedly orchestrated under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a blistering statement on Sunday, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, declared that the polls were nothing but “a dark day for democracy,” marred by intimidation of voters, open bribery, and collusion by institutions that should defend the sanctity of the ballot.
Despite its recent adoption by frontline opposition figures, the ADC failed to secure a single seat in the contests across 13 states and 16 constituencies.
But the party dismissed the results as a sham, insisting the outcome was “not a reflection of the opposition’s strength but of Nigeria’s collapsing electoral system.”
“When elections are marred by widespread violence, when ballots are brazenly exchanged for money, when opposition candidates are sidelined without explanation, and when the very institutions entrusted to protect democracy become complicit, then the vote of the ordinary Nigerian ceases to have meaning,” Abdullahi thundered.
From reports of ballot box snatching to the arrest of nearly 300 armed thugs on election day, the ADC painted a grim picture of the polls. In one state, a suspected vote buyer was allegedly caught with ₦25.9 million cash for inducements, while in another, election officials were implicated in bribery scandals.
The party also swiped at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the recurring failure of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), accusing the electoral umpire of lacking competence and sincerity.
“Nigerians deserve elections that command the implicit confidence of every citizen and the respect of the rest of the world.
INEC must not be allowed to turn excuses into a code of conduct,” the ADC warned.
The death of Mama Lydia Yilwada, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwada, has drawn heartfelt condolences from the Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum.
Mama Lydia, aged 83, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) after a brief ailment.
Professor Dakum, in his condolence message, described Mama’s passing as “an excruciatingly painful loss, especially as she departed at a time her prayers and motherly counsel were most needed.”
He noted that while death is inevitable and comes only by God’s will, it is most devastating when it robs families of mothers who nurtured them through life’s thick and thin.
He urged Professor Yilwada and his siblings to take solace in the Almighty God, stressing that Mama Lydia had gone to eternal rest in the bosom of the Lord after living a life of impact and service.
Eulogizing the late matriarch, Dakum highlighted her remarkable devotion to God and humanity.
He recalled how Mama Lydia, alongside her late husband, Reverend Toma Goshewe Yilwada, strengthened the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) across Borno, Yobe, Bauchi and Plateau States.
“Mama was peaceful, benevolent, virtuous, and a true mother who raised her children in the fear of God.
Her legacies are clearly reflected in the life and successes of her son, Nentawe ,from the university classrooms, to INEC, to ministerial service, and now as APC National Chairman, serving Nigeria with distinction,” Dakum declared.
While mourning deeply with the Yilwada family, Professor Dakum prayed for the repose of Mama’s soul and asked God to grant them the courage and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
History was made in Jos yesterday 16th August 2027 as Plateau Central Senatorial District rose in one voice to declare Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang worthy of a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The thunderous endorsement, which came during a high-powered meeting at Retnan Suites, Jos, was described as a landmark declaration of faith in Mutfwang’s people-centered, transformational leadership that has touched lives in both urban and rural Plateau.
Chairman of PDP Central Zone, Hon. Monday Daspan, ignited the atmosphere when he declared that Governor Mutfwang has “raised the bar of governance in Plateau State,” earning the admiration and loyalty of the people.
In his words, “Within two years, Governor Mutfwang has boldly repositioned Plateau on the path of sustainable growth.
He is truly God’s gift to Plateau, sent to recover and rebuild the state in line with the dreams of our founding fathers.”
Riding on this fiery declaration, Hon. Raymond Deshi, former Kanke LGA Chairman, moved a motion for Mutfwang’s endorsement, stressing that the governor has restored the people’s hope in governance.
The motion was promptly seconded by Hon. Yakubu Ibn Salami, former PDP PRO, who assured that under Mutfwang, “Plateau will rise again and shine even brighter.”
Adding more weight to the endorsement, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters, Rt. Hon. Istifanus Mwansat, highlighted visible achievements in health, agriculture, transportation, education, and human capital development, noting that only a second term can consolidate these gains.
Chief of Staff, Bldr. Jeremiah Satmak, echoed the sentiment, insisting that Mutfwang’s mandate must be renewed to guarantee deeper rural development.
“The majority of Plateau people live in rural areas; extending Mutfwang’s leadership will ensure development truly reaches them,” he said.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Philemon Daffi, was even more emphatic, applauding the governor’s courage in securing communities against aggressors. He called on citizens to rally behind Mutfwang’s decisive leadership, stressing that “a peaceful and progressive Plateau is possible if we sustain this momentum.”
Elder Emmanuel Mangni and Mrs. Lububu Shemu, speaking for Elders and Women respectively, showered encomiums on the governor for delivering visible development across Plateau. They urged the party to unite firmly behind him, describing his style as a blessing to peace and stability.
Mutfwang : “I Will Remain Fair, Just and Empathetic”
In an emotional response, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang thanked Plateau Central for the resounding confidence vote.
He pledged to deepen inclusive governance anchored on fairness, justice, and empathy, while urging party leaders to uphold internal democracy and carry everyone along.
By the close of the meeting, which had in attendance all five LGA chairmen of Plateau Central, elders, women, youth leaders, and party stalwarts, a unanimous resolution was passed :
To return the “People’s Governor”, Caleb Mutfwang ,to Government House, Rayfield, come 2027.
The Emir of Wase and Chairman of the Plateau State chapter of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, has issued a stern warning to Fulani herdsmen in Plateau State, insisting that they must stop the destruction of farmlands belonging to natives if they truly want to live in peace with host communities.
The royal father gave the charge during a one-day sensitization programme on peace and peaceful coexistence held at the Sharna Palace in Jos.
According to the Emir, most of the recurring crises in Plateau communities are directly linked to herders deliberately grazing cattle on cultivated farms, thereby destroying crops and provoking clashes with natives.
Visibly disturbed, the Emir,himself a Fulani,expressed deep regret, noting that he often feels ashamed whenever crimes such as farm destruction, cattle rustling or violent attacks are traced back to his kinsmen.
He lamented that such reckless acts not only destroy community trust but also paint the Fulani tribe and the Islamic faith in a bad light.
“Our people must stop destroying farmlands. It is unacceptable, it is shameful, and it does not represent who we are. These actions fuel hatred, create enmity, and invite violence. If you want peace, respect farmlands and respect the rights of others,” the Emir cautioned.
While acknowledging that not every crime in the state is committed by Fulani herders and that some allegations are exaggerated, the monarch nonetheless insisted that the destruction of farm crops remains a major trigger of unrest.
He urged herders to embrace discipline and peaceful coexistence, reminding them that everyone will be held accountable for their actions on the Day of Judgment.
The sensitization programme brought together religious leaders, community representatives, and Fulani associations, all echoing the call for dialogue, tolerance, and an end to the reckless encroachment on farmlands.
With farming being the lifeblood of Plateau natives, the Emir stressed that the respect of farmland boundaries by herders is the surest path to peace in the state.
By, giwa alex, Jos
The Emir of Wase and Chairman of the Plateau State chapter of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, has issued a stern warning to Fulani herdsmen in Plateau State, insisting that they must stop the destruction of farmlands belonging to natives if they truly want to live in peace with host communities.
The royal father gave the charge during a one-day sensitization programme on peace and peaceful coexistence held at the Sharna Palace in Jos.
According to the Emir, most of the recurring crises in Plateau communities are directly linked to herders deliberately grazing cattle on cultivated farms, thereby destroying crops and provoking clashes with natives.
Visibly disturbed, the Emir,himself a Fulani,expressed deep regret, noting that he often feels ashamed whenever crimes such as farm destruction, cattle rustling or violent attacks are traced back to his kinsmen.
He lamented that such reckless acts not only destroy community trust but also paint the Fulani tribe and the Islamic faith in a bad light.
“Our people must stop destroying farmlands. It is unacceptable, it is shameful, and it does not represent who we are. These actions fuel hatred, create enmity, and invite violence. If you want peace, respect farmlands and respect the rights of others,” the Emir cautioned.
While acknowledging that not every crime in the state is committed by Fulani herders and that some allegations are exaggerated, the monarch nonetheless insisted that the destruction of farm crops remains a major trigger of unrest.
He urged herders to embrace discipline and peaceful coexistence, reminding them that everyone will be held accountable for their actions on the Day of Judgment.
The sensitization programme brought together religious leaders, community representatives, and Fulani associations, all echoing the call for dialogue, tolerance, and an end to the reckless encroachment on farmlands.
With farming being the lifeblood of Plateau natives, the Emir stressed that the respect of farmland boundaries by herders is the surest path to peace in the state.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has ignited a fresh call for Christians to rediscover their divine purpose, insisting that every human life is created to fulfill God’s eternal plan.
The Governor gave this charge on Saturday, 16th August 2025, during the one-year memorial service and book launch in honour of the late Reverend Emmanuel Kanos, founder of The Parliament Church, held at the church auditorium near Lamingo Roundabout, Jos.
Governor Mutfwang who described himself as a “Child of Grace and Destiny”,said the testimonies of Rev. Kanos’ life continue to inspire, stressing that no journey in life has meaning unless interrupted by Christ.
“No life is an accident. Every life was meant to fulfill destiny. But let me say it again; any man whose journey in life is not interrupted by Jesus is going nowhere.
You must have a story of divine interruption if you are to find meaning and purpose in life,” the Governor declared, drawing loud applause from the congregation.
The service climaxed with the unveiling of the book “Destiny : A Fresh Biblical Perspective,” written in memory of the late cleric.
Governor Mutfwang pledged government support for its wide circulation, noting that it will guide many to discover God’s unique plan for their lives.
He further praised Reverend Mrs. Kanos, the family, and the Parliament Church congregation for preserving the vision of the late preacher, praying that God’s purpose for the ministry would be fully realized.
In her book review, Professor Funmi Para-Mallam described the work as “a life-changing resource,”
Stressing destiny is not determined by human interpretation but firmly anchored in God’s eternal will.
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