Cardinal Onaiyekan,Governor Lalong Visit Islamic Center During Fasting.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Gov.Bako Lalong Praised For Peace Building In Plateau.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Governor Simon Bako Lalong has been commended for his peace efforts that have restored confidence and mitigated human disasters associated with violence and conflicts in Plateau State.

Speakers at the launch of a book on Disaster and Conflict in Abuja described the Governor as a peacemaker who has become a shining example for de-escalating violence and creating sustainable platform for mutual understanding and dialogue.

The Book facilitated by the Federal Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs and Special Duties examined the challenges of disasters that are generated from conflicts in Nigeria and how to mitigate them.

Minister for Intergovernmental Affairs and Special Duties Sen. George Akume said Nigerians need to continue to foster peaceful coexistence as a way of preventing disasters that end up hurting development. He said Governor Lalong has proven to be one of the examples of leaders who can be relied upon to galvanise people to do the right thing by embracing one another.

Former Deputy Senate President Nasiru Mantu also said the search for peace in Nigeria cannot succeed without people respecting one another and realising that God is the creator of all while differences in tribe, religion, geography and even orientations are matters that cannot be blamed on humanity as people never chose where to be born or the families to be born in.

He said this is why people must be able to accept one another as human beings and stop fighting. He said Governor Lalong has been able to achieve this by enabling people of various backgrounds to have a sense of belonging which has doused tensions and made peace possible in Plateau State.

Governor Lalong who praised the author of the book for conducting the research said peace remains his cardinal objective and as such, he will not relent in making sure that people work together to engender good relations.

He urged all Nigerians to support peaceful coexistence as conflicts do not only cause disasters, but leave a huge burden on development.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The plateau state Southern Senatorial Bye Election Tribunal involving professor Nora Dadu’ut of All Progressive Congress (APC)and that of the opposition Party, People Democratic Party (PDP) George Edward Daika has closed their cases today 19th April,2021,and set date for final written addresses.

Parties involved in the petition filed by Hon. George Edwards Daika, PDP against INEC, Nora Daduut and the APC in the National and State Assemblies Election Petition Tribunal currently sitting at Dadin Kowa Youth Centre Jos , following Jusun’s ongoing strike which disallowed the tribunal using their facilities have all closed their cases on Monday, 19 April 2021.

With the closure of their cases by the parties involved,the next line of action is the adoption of Final Written Addresses by parties.

However, in line with the election tribunal process,the 1st,2nd and 3rd respondent who did not call any witness were given maximum of Ten days each starting from 19th April,2021 ,to filed their final written addresses.

While the petitioner (PDP)who called F

ifteen witnesses is given maximum of Seven days to file it final written address.

The tribunal has been adjourned till next month for the adoption of final addresses.

Plateau State Government Commences Roll Out Of NIN Registration Centers.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, says it will hold a nationwide peaceful protest on April 19 to further push home its demand for financial autonomy for the judiciary. This threat contained in a circular obtained by newsmen) in Lagos, dated April 16 and signed by the Deputy Secretary of the Union, P. Nnamani. NAN reports that JUSUN on April 6, commenced a nationwide industrial action, calling for implementation of financial autonomy for the judiciary. While restating that the strike would continue following failure by government to meet its demands, the union urged its members to remain resolute in spite of pressures. The circular read in part: “Further be informed that following an emergency meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) of JUSUN on the April 15, 2021, “it is agreed that the union will organise a peaceful protest in the Federal Capital, which will be replicated in the 36 state Capitals in furtherance of our agitations, from April 19, 2021. “Please note that if in case there are any invitations for negotiations/talks, you should promptly inform the National Headquarters for guidelines and representations to avoid disorder in presentation of facts.” NAN

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Director General of Industrial Training Fund(ITF)Sir Joseph Ari has described the New appoined Archbishop of Jos diocese His Grace Mathew Ishaya Audu as the right spiritual peg in a round hole who perfectly fits into the spiritual vacuum hitherto created by the transfer of the immediate past Archbishop of Jos lgnatius Kaigama to Abuja.

This is so because as the popular Hausa adage goes”The Dance Step of Friday Begin On Wensday “.

As he recalled that before the Pallium which is finally given to him today,he has served as an Archbishop of Jos for the past one year.

The formal General Manager of the State owned Tv/Radio station ,Sir Joseph Ari(KSM)shower this encomium on the New Archbishop of Jos Mathew Ishaya Audu(Dr) in an interview with journalists in Jos during the presentation of Pallium to the Archbishop , celebration of 20 years of priesthood and 1year as an Archbishop of Jos, held at the Divine Mercy Cathedral Lamingo in Jos, plateau state.

Sir Ari who is also member of the knights of Saint Mullumba (KSM)and a classmate of the celebrant way back at the Seminary, said for the short period of time the New Archbishop has spend in plateau state we seen him going for his pastoral visitation and I have the cause to listen to his preaching during those visitations.

He further add that he was privilege to be with him at the celebration of Divine Mercy, and l heard all his teaching which centered on the need for us to disregard materialism and embraced that which is heavenly mission .

Ari stressed that his expectations for the Archbishop of Jos His Grace Mathew Ishaya Audu, although he has stepped Into the spiritual big shoes of his precedessor Archbishop lgnatius Kaigama but will realised the Spiritual Shoes fitted him perfectly.

The (ITF) Director General and the classmate of the New Archbishop lshaya Audu said my expectations for him is that the jos diocese will continue to grow from strength to strengthen under Archbishop Audu as the people will have sense of belonging and draw closer to God because he has come at a critical time when religion has been relegated to background.

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“A time where security is now left in the hand of God,this is a period where the people need the hands of God ,this a period when people needs to get closer to God.”

He maintained that the New Archbishop is having a tall and heculer task ahead of him ,but a task I know he is capable of surmounting .

Ari further add that his expectations for him is to bring men and women closer to christ which I have no doubt in my mind that he will excel as Bishop and as shepard.

The Former General Manager of the State owned Tv/Radio station (PRTVC)who is visibly happy said l am happy that one of my classmate have been elevated to an enviable position of Archbishop of Jos to Over see some states like Bauchi,Yola,Jalingo,shandam, Pankshin, Maiduguri and jos.

And further stressed that is a thing of joy for me l am not fully suprised knowing the personality of the person of Archbishop Mathew Ishaya Audu.

Mathew Audu right from our Seminary days ,is a gentleman to the core ,a man full of wisdom of God .I know that sky will be his starting point in his choosing discipline of priesthood.

” Priesthood is a special calling ,a lot of us are called not many are choosing ,so the Archbishop was choosing by God ,I have many other classmates who are priest ,l am so proud to be in their mist.”

Although I am not called or choosing like some of my classmates to be priest , those values in the seminary have remained with me .

And further add that there is no way you will be priest without understanding the values because priesthood have to be a saint.

“Those values are very central to human personality ,those values we imbibe right from Seminary days are values that have been controlling my life daily”

“So today I am not happy only for myself, ,not just for our classmates , but the entire Bishopbry of Jos Archdiocese”

“For us we have a shepard in the person of His Grace Ishaya Mathew Audu,a shepard who is down to the core, very blunt , straight forward and the one l know will led the flocks of the catholic of Jos to the enviable destination with salvation”.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The Director of Industrial Training Fund(ITF)Sir Joseph Ari has described the Newly appoined Archbishop of Jos diocese His Grace Mathew Ishaya Audu as the right spiritual peg in a round hole who perfectly fits into the spiritual vacuum hitherto created by the transfer of the immediate past Archbishop of Jos Ayu Kaigama to Abuja.

This is so because as the popular Hausa adage goes”The Dance Step of Friday Begin On Wensday “.

As he recalled that before the Pallium which is finally given to him today,he has served as an Archbishop of Jos for the past one year.

The formal General Manager of the State owned Tv/Radio station ,Sir Joseph Ari(KSM)shower this encomium on the New Archbishop of Jos Mathew Ishaya Audu(Dr) in an interview with journalists in Jos during the presentation of Pallium to the Archbishop , celebration of 20 years of priesthood and 1year as an Archbishop of Jos, held at the Divine Mercy Cathedral Lamingo in Jos, plateau state.

Sir Ari who is also member of the knights of Saint Mullumba (KSM)and a classmate of the celebrant way back at the Seminary, said for the short period of time the New Archbishop has spend in plateau state we seen him going for his pastoral visitation and I have the cause to listen to his preaching during those visitations.

He further add that he was privilege to be with him at the celebration of Divine Mercy, and l heard all his teaching which centered on the need for us to disregard materialism and embraced that which is heavenly mission .

Ari stressed that his expectations for the Archbishop of Jos His Grace Mathew Ishaya Audu, although he has stepped Into the spiritual big shoes of his precedessor Archbishop lgnitus Kaigama but will realised the Spiritual Shoes fitted him perfectly.

The (ITF) Director General and the classmate of the New Archbishop lshaya Audu said my expectations for him is that the jos diocese will continue to grow from strength to strengthen under Archbishop Audu as the people will have sense of belonging and draw closer to God because he has come at a critical time when religion has been relegated to background.

.

“A time where security is now left in the hand of God,this is a period where the people need the hands of God ,this a period when people needs to get closer to God.”

He maintained that the New Archbishop is having a tall and heculer task ahead of him ,but a task I know he is capable of surmounting .

Ari further add that his expectations for him is to bring men and women closer to christ which I have no doubt in my mind that he will excel as Bishop and as shepard.

The Former General Manager of the State owned Tv/Radio station (PRTVC)who is visibly happy said l am happy that one of my classmate have been been levated to an enviable position of Archbishop of Jos to Over see some states like Bauchi,Yola,Jalingo,shandam, Pankshin, Maiduguri and jos.

And further stressed that is a thing of joy for me l am not fully suprised knowing the personality of the person of Archbishop Mathew Ishaya Audu.

Mathew Audu right from our Seminary days ,is a gentleman to the core ,a man full of wisdom of God .I know that sky will be his starting point in his choosing discipline of priesthood.

” Priesthood is a special calling ,a lot of us are called not many are choosing ,so the Archbishop was choosing by God ,I have many other classmates who are priest ,l am so proud to be in their mist.”

Although I am not called or choosing like some of my classmates to be priest , those values in the seminary have remained with me .

And further add that there is no way you will be priest without understanding the values because priesthood have to be a saint.

“Those values are very central to human personality ,those values we imbibe right from Seminary days are values that have been controlling my life daily”

“So today I very not just for me ,not just for our classmates , but the entire Bishopbry of Jos Archdiocese”

“For us we have a shepard in the person of His Grace Ishaya Mathew Audu,a shepard who is down to the core, very blunt , straight forward and the one l know will led the flocks of the catholic of Jos to the enviable destination with salvation”.

Conference Of Speakers Meet Gov.Lalong On Autonomy

By, alex giwa, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has assured the leadership of the Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly of the commitment of all Governors towards achieving autonomy for the legislative and judicial arms of government.

Governor Lalong who received a delegation led by the Chairman, Conference of Speakers, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Suleiman said the issue of autonomy will soon be put to rest with the final engagements between all stakeholders holding soon.

He used the opportunity to clarify that autonomy is not just for financial independence, but also for strengthening the legislature and enhancing democratic values. According to him, the implementation of autonomy will require each State to establish the House of Assembly Service Commission which will handle all administrative functions of the legislature and provide proper accountability just as there are civil service commissions and others.

He advised the Speakers to engage other parties as well as educate the public on what autonomy is all about because a lot of misconception is creating an impression that members of the legislature stand to gain financially rather than be better supported to serve the people.

On tackling insecurity, Lalong said the implementation of community Policing is the way to go which will gradually lead to state police when fully implemented.

Chairman, Conference of Speakers Abubakar Suleiman said they were on an advocacy visit to discuss the issue of autonomy and other national matters such as curbing insecurity.

He said the Conference recognises the strategic position of Governor Lalong as former Speaker and Chairman of the body, Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and a strong member of the Nigerian Governors Forum who has been at the centre of discussions towards autonomy.

He assured the Governor that the speakers would continue to work in synergy with the Executive in order to provide good governance and better living standards for the people.

Lalong Directs Contractors To Engage Indigenous Workers

By, giwa alex, Jos

Following an earlier visit to various project sites in the Southern Senatorial Zone of Plateau State by Governor Simon Bako Lalong where he directed contractors to stick to completion schedules and standard of work, the Chief of Staff to the Governor Noel Donjur has paid an unscheduled visit to the area to follow up on the progress of work.

During the visit which took him to road construction project sites in Shendam, the Chief of Staff reiterated the Governor’s stand and further directed contractors handling construction and other projects to engage local Labour and artisans to build capacity and create employment for the youths.

Noel Donjur further enjoined them to patronise local sub-contractors and suppliers in line with the Rescue administration’s mission to provide employment for youths.

The roads inspected include Anguwan Buan, Congo, Shaiyen Street, Shendam by-pass and other internal road networks.

While taking the Chief of Staff on inspection, Engr. Thomas Ojeil of Triacta Nig Ltd promised to abide by the directives as they are committed to delivering the project on time.

Also contributing, Engr. Kevin Golji and Caleb Gotom from the Ministry of Works who were on site supervision also assured the Chief of Staff that they are closely monitoring the work to ensure that it is done according to specification.

The Chief of staff further directed that a schedule of work programme be submitted to the Ministry of Works immediately to facilitate tracking, monitoring of and time evaluation.

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A cross section of residents expressed delight with the quality and speed of work, saying the project has provided a new phase for the town.

Attempted PLASU Students Kidnap ,Governor Lalong Praises Security Forces.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong is full of praises and admiration to security personnel for their swift response that thwarted the attempted kidnap of four students at the Plateau State University, Bokkos.

Governor Lalong Praises is contained in a press release dated 13th April,2021, signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to the Governor Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos.

The attempted kidnap was said to have occurred on Monday night when gunmen stormed the off-campus student residences at Ndar Community near the University campus and attempted to kidnap four students.

On receiving the distress call, officers of Operation Safe Haven, Operation Rainbow, Nigeria Police, University Security and Community Watch Group mobilised and went after the kidnappers who had taken four students. Facing apparent capture, the criminals aborted their mission and ran away leading to the safe recovery of the students.

Governor Lalong who commended the security agencies for rising up to the occasion and being proactive directed the immediate establishment of a police post within the host community of the University in order to forestall any future reoccurrence.

The Governor also directed that security is tightened in all other schools across the State to guarantee the safety and security of students.

It would be recalled that the Governor had last year directed the University Management to improve security of the institution which led to the installation of CCTV surveillance and early warning systems all over the campus as well as the preparation for fencing of the entire campus.

The Governor has assured the students that all necessary measures will continue to be employed to ensure that they learn and dwell under a peaceful, secure and conducive environment.

Meanwhile, the Governor has again appealed to the citizens to assist security agencies with relevant intelligence that will lead to not only the arrest of the fleeing kidnappers, but to the apprehension of all criminal elements that are bent on disrupting the peace of the State.

He also commends the Local Government Chairman Yusuf Machen for sustaining synergy with the security agencies and the University community which is key to achieving peace and security in the area. He wants this tempo sustained as traditonal and community leaders as well as the newly deployed community police constables to be carried along to frustrate the plans criminals.

Govs. Sympathise With Army Over Killing Of Soldiers In Benue .

By, giwa alex, Jos

Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors Forum has sympathised with the Nigerian Army over the killing of 12 soldiers in Konshisha LGA, Benue State, describing it as a condemnable act which must not be allowed to happen again as it is capable of demoralising security personnel from giving their best to fighting insecurity in the country.

The condemnation is contained in a press statement dated 13th April,2021, signed by the Director of press and Public Affairs to the chairman of the forum who doubled as the Governor of plateau state Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos,plateau state capital.

Chairman in a statement said the forum sympathises with the families of the slain soldiers and the Nigerian Army over this unfortunate incident, which occured when the soldiers were on an assignment to ensure the security of lives and properties.

The Forum urges the Army not to be discouraged by the act and continue carrying out their legitimate duty of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and assisting in maintaining internal security, particularly at this time when the nation is confronted by many criminal activities.

While pledging its continued support and collaboration to the Armed Forces and the security services in general, the Northern Governors appealed to the Army to remain professional and exercise caution and restraint even as they work hard to fish out the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

The Governors also called on the citizens to assist the security forces with useful information that will lead to the arrest of those behind the killing of the soldiers as well as the apprehension of other criminals tormenting innocent citizens across the country.

L

along Advices Religious Leaders Not To Use Pulpit For Division And Hatred .

By,giwa alex, Jos

Governor Simon Bako Lalong has adviced religious leaders in Platesu State and the country in general not to use the pulpit to preach division and hatred among their adherence .

Rather it should be use to preach unity and religious harmony which is catalyst for peace , security and good governance in Nigeria.

The Governor was speaking at the installation and reception of Pallium by the new Catholic Archbishop of Jos Most. Rev. Mathew Ishaya Audu held at the Divine Mercy Cathedral, Lamingo Jos,plateau state.

Lalong while congratulating the Archbishop said within one year of assuming duties, His Grace Most. Rev

Mathew Audu(Dr) has demonstrated that his calling is divine and that he is totally committed to ensuring that the will of God is implemented in Plateau State and the world at large through the Church.

Governor Lalong who doubled as the chairman Northern Governor’s Forum , said the Archbishop has given the Laity, religious and clergy the needed leadership to enable them carry out their duties in the service of God and humanity without any hindrance.

“He has made personal sacrifices to ensuring that all challenges are addressed to make the propagation of the gospel of Christ seamless”.

The Governor said “While it is the duty of religious leaders to speak the truth to power and the public, you should also beware of, and shun rhetorics that promote hate, division, and distrust among the people.

“You should guard against politicians and other interests that are always desperate to exploit the pulpit for their selfish reasons. The people look up to you for guidance and motivation that guarantees a united, equitable and prosperous society where the rights and privileges of all are guaranteed. Be assured that my administration will continue to work with you as we build a better Plateau and Nigeria of our dream”.

Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria Most. Rev. Anthonio Fillipazzi said the presentation of the Pallium to the Archbishop is a significant event that confers authority on the Archbishop to discharge his duties in line with the doctrine of the Catholic Church. He called for prayers for Archbishop Audu as he shepherds the Church within his jurisdiction even in difficult times.

Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba also congratulated the Archbishop and promised the support of the traditional Institution for the Church and the Government.

Archbishop Audu thanked God for bestowing on him this assignment which he intends to do his best to discharge. He thanked His Holiness Pope Francis for the installation and called for unity in the body of Christ in Plateau State, Nigeria and the world at large.

He also assured of his intention to continue to work for inter-faith harmony, tolerance and forgiveness in Plateau State and elsewhere just as his predecessor, Archbishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama had done. Archbishop Ishaya Audu also marked his 20th Anniversary as Bishop.

Gov.Lalong Is Saddened By Killing Of 8 Miners In Jos South LG, Tasks Security To Fish

Out Perpetrators.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau State has expressed sadness over an attack on a mining site in Kuru, Jos South Local Government Area which left 8 people dead.

Lalong sadness is contained in a press statement dated 10th April,2021, signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs Mackut Macham and made available to journalists in Jos, plateau State capital.

Governor Lalong while reacting to the incident expressed anger over what he described as another desperate attempt by criminals to destabilise the State and create fear among the people.

He said the Government will not condone such attacks on innocent citizens, and directed security agencies to fish out the perpetrators of this dastardly act which is capable of disrupting the substantial peace prevailing in the State.

While commiserating with the families of those who were killed and those who sustained injuries, Lalong reiterated his charge to security agencies to resolve suh attacks as excuses of “unknown gunmen” will no longer be tolerated.

Governor Lalong also advised the citizens to assist law enforcement agencies with useful intelligence, leveraging on structures such as the Traditional Institutions, Community Police Constabulary, vigilante groups and other associations.

Governors Task Acting IG On Proactive Security Measures.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Governors under the auspacies of Northern Governors Forum has Felicitates with the Acting Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba over his recent appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari, urging him to pay attention to proactive measures in tackling crime in the country.

The Governors felicitation is contained in a press release dated 10th April,2021, signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Chairman of the forum and Governors of plateau state Makut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state.

Governor said the appointment of the Acting IGP is well deserved considering his track record of diligent service to the nation across various police formations in the country.

While wishing him a successful tenure, Governor Lalong said the Northern Governors Forum will accord him all the necessary support to enable him provide the leadership needed for proactive policing that deters crime, effectively tracks criminals and generally attracts the goodwill of the public.

He said “as Northern Governors, we remain committed to Community Policing and any other measure that will lead to securing our region which has been bedeviled by different forms of insecurity. We must work together to adopt new measures that will not only enable us overcome these challenges, but also remain on top of the situation by preventing criminals from carrying out their nefarious activities”.

Lalong said the Northern Governors are particularly concerned that the farming season is at hand and many farmers may be discouraged from cultivating their farms if crimes such as banditary, kidnapping and insurgency are not brought to and end.

The Northern Governors Forum Chairman called on Nigerians to support the Acting IGP and the entire security architecture for a more secure nation.

N25M Worth Car Gift Ready For Grabs In The Basement Search Reality TV Show in Nigeria

By, giwa alex,Jos

The Chief Executive Officer, (CEO) of Basement Africa Productions, Engr Okiemute, has said that the winner of the Basement Search Reality TV show tagged: ‘The Film Makers Edition’ will go home with a car gift and other items worth twenty five million naira.

Recall that the organizers have so far covered the City of Warri and Port Harcourt where thousands of Nollywood lovers and aspiring actors besieged the audition venue for a spot at the Basement Search Reality Tv show.

In a statement made available to journalists in plateau state, the CEO said participants are expected to showcase their acting skills to woo the celebrity judges.

According to him, other places covered include Aba, in Abia State, Owerri and Awka.

He added that on the 10th and 13th April, the audition train is expected to hit Enugu and Benin at Ofuobi African Cultural Centre and Hexagon respectively while April 16th, 20th and 24th are for Golden Tulip Hotel Jericho, Ibadan; Grand Cubana, Abuja and Vienna Hotel, Asaba respectively.

Accreditation for participants kicks off at 10a.m.

The stakes are high and the competition is getting tougher as the train is expected to go round a total of 10 locations to pick potential film makers into the House, where contestants will compete for the grand prize of a brand new car and 25million worth of prizes.

According to the organizers, it is a reality show where 30 housemates will be elected to the house for 42 days and movie makers will be available to develop the movie making skills of the house mates.

The winner will emerge by votes of the viewing audience at home who are expected to vote for their favourite contestant.

According to the CEO, the essence of the programme is essentially to create fresh set of movie stars for the Nigerian film industry.

Matters Arising On Worker Casualisation.

By Remi Adegboyega

One of the foremost American Management Consultant and Author – Peter F. Drucker had identified the key role that Private Employment Agencies (PEA) play in the management of business when he said, “Do what you do best and outsource the rest”.

The essence of this principle is to allow business owners focus on important and commercial side of the business while they leave the ancillary issues of logistics, manpower/labour recruitment, replacement and supervision to third parties.

Private employment agencies play significant roles in the labour market. They are like a buffer zone in the global labour market a-washed with labour mostly not readily fit for the needs of the employers. Starting work in private employment agencies provide them with the starting opportunity, skills and competencies to add value to businesses.

While employing them in most cases as freshmen, PEAs provide fair and equitable conditions of service which include: Fair pay for work, Group Life Insurance, Healthcare Insurance, Pension, Employee Compensation for injuries and others such that they can favourably compare with other employees around the globe. The environment of work with PEAs inculcates the performance culture, team spirit and business culture.

Private Employment Agencies (PEAs) are companies that are involved directly or indirectly with recruitment, selection, placement (and in some cases, the management) of employees, whether skilled or unskilled, for themselves and other companies.

They are involved in the process of matching the employees to the employer’s requirements and vice versa. It is a fast developing sector in the labour industry not just in Nigeria but globally. It is a new and growing universal business model.

Private employment agencies play a critical role in the labour market, with many businesses considering them essential to ensure that the demand for labour in both local and international markets is met. Services provided by PEAs represent a modern answer to reconcile the requirement of labour flexibility for user companies and the need of work security for employees. The flexibility of agency work has endeared many young workers to it.

Agency workers are also important in meeting the seasonal needs of some employers. For some workers, agencies act as a gateway to securing more profitable jobs. On the other hand, some workers choose temporary work because it allows them to combine their work with other commitments; like their entrepreneurial interests, developmental plans or to increase their income by being able to work for more than one employer.

Private employment agencies provide avenue for job-starters and first-time entrants to the labour market to gain experience through their assignments and can therefore demonstrate their skills to prospective employers. In all these, it is clear that agency work is indispensable in the 21st century economy.

Private employment agencies help to increase work mobility while protecting working conditions of workers. This includes mobility from unemployment to employment and mobility from one job to another; by providing training to workers and giving them new skills for an assignment and therefore enhance their employability.

Private employment agencies also provide an efficient external solution for companies to manage their need of workforce flexibility. Companies need increased flexibility to maintain their competitiveness in an economy that is becoming more global, constantly changing and unpredictable. Private employment agencies help companies cope with seasonal production fluctuations and provide them with specialised skills that they do not have in-house.

The private employment agencies in Nigeria contribute significantly to both the labour and government. They employs over Three Million (3,000,000) Nigerians of management and non-management cadre both in Nigeria and abroad with the volume of fund in the industry rising over the years to an estimate of One Trillion and Four Hundred Billion Naira (1,400,000,000,000).

The private employment agencies pay various forms of taxes to the government at all levels like Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Company Income Tax, Withholding Tax etc.

Given the new developments in the labour market and the indispensable contributions of the private employment agencies to the economy, it is inconceivable that the National Assembly (Senate/House of Representatives) is considering legislating, through a reportedly current Bill in the Senate titled “A Bill for an Act to provide for the Prohibition of Casualisation in all forms of employment in the private and public sectors in Nigeria and for related matters” to outlaw outsourcing in Nigeria.

The umbrella body of licensed private employment agencies in Nigeria, the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN) has equally been advocating for prohibition of casualization in Nigeria while promoting outsourcing – a new form of work around the globe.

The Current labour laws in Nigeria – the Labour Act, Factory Act/Ordinances, Pensions Act, Trade Union Act, Employee Compensation Act, and Minimum Wage Act among others are more than sufficient to guarantee the right of people at work, although, some of them require review and updating. Yet, they are sufficient to safeguard our citizens from being exploited or “casualized” by any employer.

Despite the existence of these laws, however, there is a huge gap in the regulatory environment; labour supervision has become very weak in the face of poor allocation of resources to the Ministry. There are only a few labour inspectors (whose skills and competencies need serious updating) and ability to visit employers throughout the country to ensure that citizens are not exploited is weak.

The Labour Act states that as an employer, one cannot employ a person without formal employment for more than 90 days. After 90 days, one must give such worker a letter (job contract) stating his/her conditions of service. If the provision is adhered to, Nigerians wouldn’t be exposed to exploitations by unfair employers. Outsourcing employment does not translate to casualization in anyway if it is practiced in accordance with the standards of Private Employment Agencies and laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

Most of the PEAs employees have gone on to improve their competencies to become highly skilled, migrant workers and fantastic entrepreneurs. Such is the kind of services being provided by PEAs worldwide.

The global growth of PEA services has led to the development of Private Employment Agencies Convention 181 by the International Labour Organization (ILO) which creates standards under which PEAs must operate. The National Assembly should rather incorporate this Convention into the Nigerian labour laws and make laws that will make it extremely difficult, if not impossible for illegal recruitment in the country.

Licensed employment agencies in Nigeria are guided by their Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct was developed jointly by the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, International Labour Organisation (ILO), Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the umbrella body of the private employment agencies in Nigeria, the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN).

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The Code of Conduct for private employment agencies in Nigeria aimed at regulating and setting standards for the operations of Private Employment Agencies and to also nip in the bud, the ever alarming global threat of unwholesome labour practices and human trafficking.

By the provisions of the Code, Private Employment Agencies expect high standards of ethical behaviour from its members. It outlined the professional conduct and behavior required of registered and approved employment agencies in Nigeria.

It stipulated the expected behaviour and conduct using six values, which underpin the profession: integrity, dignity, responsibility, respect, justice, and care. It fostered corporate ethics and best practices. It provided a principle-based approach that acknowledges the peculiarities of our environment and dynamics of the private recruitment industry.

Private employment agencies in Nigeria have since inception refused to compromise on the right of workers to associate and working conditions. They have a body, the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN) jointly established by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) for the purpose of promoting decent jobs in the country.

The National Assembly can promote workers right by legislating that Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN) becomes the body that appropriately caters for the interest of the outsourced personnel; as such, all recruiting agencies should rally under HuCaPAN so that they can be adequately monitored to ensure that Nigerian workers are not shortchanged.

The National Assembly can equally help to ensure the ratification and domestication of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention C181 – Private Employment Agencies Convention, 1997 (No. 181) and include it in the proposed Labour Act (Amendment) 2019. Nigeria should not be moving against positive global economic trend. The lawmakers can also alleviate the sufferings of Nigerian workers by ensuring that legislative frameworks are put in place to make the industry extremely difficult and unattractive for illegal recruiters while stiffer punishment is meted out to any proven unlicensed, illegal recruiter.

The industry should not be discriminated against compared to other forms of flexible labour. The International Labour Organization (ILO), Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and the Federal Ministry of Employment (FMLE) are continually meeting at tripartite level to improve the labour law standards to check any perceived anomaly in terms of tendencies of any organizations to abridge rights of Nigerian employees.

The Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria can be consulted to provide support on how to protect Nigerians from the evil of casualisation or exploitation of Nigerian workers.

Remi Adegboyega is the President of the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPAN).

Allowing Minority Opinion Triumph Without Being Challenge By Majority Accords Such Minority View Value——-Ahmed Idris Wase.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Deputy Speaker of the Lower Chamber of the National Assembly and member representing Wase Federal Constituency Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase says allowing the voice of a minority opinion triumph without being challenged by opinion of the vast majority accords such minority views value.

The Deputy Speaker stated this while playing host to the Plateau state Leadership of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) at his residence in Jos during the Easter break.

The Deputy Speaker responding to the solicitation on him by the Union for support and advocacy on colleagues towards the discontinuation of proceedings on the bill seeking the delisting of local Governments, Removal of Minimum wage from the Exclusive to the Concurrent List and the granting of Local Government Autonomy during the forthcoming Constitution amendment, noted the National Assembly’s doors are open to all opinions, pointing out the popularity of the position of those favorably disposed to the delisting of local Governments and movement of the minimum wage are entitled to their views and if left unchallenged by voices against it will give it impetus and smooth sailing.

Wase tasked the union leadership to galvanize support from all its members across the nation towards making its voice and opinion hard on its position about these contending issues and appreciated the Union for realizing the place of lobbying in a democratic setting and assured them of the National Assembly’s readiness of deliberating and passing bills that are people oriented and has potential of invoking national growth and development.

Regarding the Constitution amendment and the demand for Local Government Autonomy, the House of Representatives number two man noted as chairman of the house Constitution amendment committee, work has begun in earnest preparatory towards the exercise calling on the labour organization to ensure it does its own part of the bargain of creating needed awareness needed in reciprocating support.

The Deputy Speaker charged the union leadership on the need to be faithful and steadfast in its sworn mandate of causing improvement to the welfare of members, stressing the price of leadership is always bearing the pains and burdens of followers which requires patience, tolerance and understanding as virtues also appealed on the leadership to close ranks with government towards the peaceful and amicable resolution of issues.

Earlier State President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Yohanna Arondong Makwin while stating its mission commiserated with the Deputy Speaker on behalf of the entire National Assembly over the sudden demise of the member representing Jos North/Bassa Federal constituency in the National Assembly Hon. Haruna Maitala who died recently in a ghastly motor accident.

Arondong eulogized the sterling disposition of the Deputy Speaker who apart from the positive impact on the lives of his constituents through various empowerment programs has also sponsored very significant bills which include the bill for the establishment of Federal Medical Centre Wase and bill for the amendment of the Orthopedic Hospital Management Board to provide for the establishment of Orthopedic Hospital Jos among other valuable contributions on the floor of the hallowed chamber.

The NULGE President stated the visit on the Deputy Speaker became imperative in view of the critical nature of the two anti people bills which are against productivity, growth and development stressing local governments being integral components of states and playing host to a larger percentage of the nation’s population, the granting of Local Government autonomy is therefore a significant yardstick for the achievement of it statutory mandate and not bills that will further impoverish the grass roots and add pain to the already sorry condition of local government workers.

There Is Paradigm Shift In AYM———Barr.Awang

By, giwa alex, Jos

The National President of Afizere Youths Movement which is made up of Jos North Jos East,Mangu in plateau State and other neighbouring states like Toro local government and Tafawa Balewa LG of plateau Bauchi state said there is going to be Paradigm Shift in the union.

The National President of the movement barr.Gogwin Zachariah stated this recently at the gathering of the body to brainstorm on issues boarded on the development and challenges of Izere people held at lzere Arena Lamingo ,Jos North LG.

The Symposium was well attended by the Izere people nation wide especially Youths both at home and in diaspora.

In his opening speech, AYM

National President,Barrister Zachariah Awang said,

“apart from the usual jamboree of January 1st AYM event of gala night, and miss Izere beauty pageant which despite arrangement and planning this year’s event was aborted by the second wave of covid 19 pandemic which unarguably ravaged the whole world.”

“We then widen our horizon and took a deliberate step to organize a two days event; a symposium and a hike”.

He further stressed that,these two events are very special to the movement because it is an avenue to acquire both intellectual and vocational knowledge and secondly,hiking like the old adage,”all work and no play makes jack a dull boy”.

Awang said the hiking will avail the youths the opportunity to exercise and get together at our prestigious tourist site,Gog and Magog,Shere Hills.

According to Barrister Awang,there is no doubt,the event will open a paradigm shift in AYM activities,we shall consult widely to make it an annual event.

The President of AYM commended the efforts of Governor Simon Bako Lalong for finding Izere Illustrious sons and Daughters of appointment into various positions in his administration.

“I will not hesitate to say this without fear of contradiction and intimidation that we have seen very little or not seen any dividend of such offices yet and the time to act is now.”

He expressed his profound appreciation to the Speaker Plateau state House of Assembly,Rt. Hon. Nuhu Abok Ayuba,for accepting to chair the ocassion.

The Symposium with the theme :” Izere Youth And Developmental Challenges In Izere Nation.”

Delivered by Dr. Augustine Sambo Azi,Deputy Dean Student Affairs,University of Jos,described youth as someone that is vibrant and still have vigour and is not up to sixty years.

He identified Tourism as a key area to develop in Izere land,Shere Hills,River Durbi,”Aya aner River at Jarawan Kogi.

On the area of sports Development,he said there are many gifted youths in Izere land that are well gifted in sporting activities , called on the people in the position to discover those youths to help them realize their sporting potentials.

He pointed out that education is one of the most viable sector Izere should focus and prioritize and advised the Izere Youths to acquire knowledge and increase the number of Professors,build community schools,Economic development in order to eradicate poverty,there should be more wider political participation.

Agriculture as a viable tool for economic transformation needed to be boost,Izere land produces the best cucumber and tomatoes to the other parts of the country.

The resource persons listed the following factors responsible for the underdevelopment in Izere land which includes,

Selfishness,lack of direction and focus from the youths, Poverty,some give birth to multiple children that they can’t carter for,hence poverty becomes order of the day and constitute threats to the society.

Dr. Azi also identified unhealthy competition among the people as one of the factors impeding development.

How to mitigate the problems is by self assessment,bottom to top approach,Revamping of education from Primary down to Tertiary,develop political consciousness at the grassroot.

Chairman of the occasion,Rt. Hon. Nuhu Abok Ayuba.Speaker,Plateau state House of Assembly said the occasion of this nature suppose to be continue unite Izere youths chart way forward.

He promised to support the youth always and assure his constituents of more dividends of democracy particularly the Fobur-Maijuju-Zandi Road will be completed.

The occasion witnessed the Presentation of Awards of Excellence and pace setters.

The awardees includes Mr. Izam Atang Azi who received double Awards as the pioneer Head of Civil service in Izere and award of meritorious service to the Plateau state,Mr Ladi Agyer Madaki,first Izere woman to occupy the position of the chief registrar of the Plateau state high court,Barrister Bulus Atsen,Chairman NBA Abuja,Unity Bar,Comrade Innocent Ajiji.

President African Railway workers and Chairman on Nigerian National union of Railway workers,Dr. Douglas Kaze,Mrs Ayisa Daniel, among others.

Responding on behalf of the awardees,Mr. Izam Atang Azi,the former head of service.

“Iam very happy with the two awards given to me by the Afizere Youth movement and I’m very encouraged that they have acknowledged some of the contributions I have made to the Izere nation and the state at large.”

Izam further said he is inspired to do more for my community,I want to advice the youths to strive and acquire skills through entrepreneurship because we have come to a stage where government cannot provide job for everybody.”

Other dignitaries that graced the event included Barrister Amos Azi,chairman security and investment tribunal,Mr Sambo Agwom,Chairman PDP UK,Rt. Hon Joshua Izang Madaki,Former Speaker,Plateau state house of Assembly .

Gov.Lalong Mourns Senator Sati Gogwin

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed sadness over the death of Senator Sati Davies Gogwim who died at the age of 71.

Governor Lalong described the death of Senator Gogwim who represented Plateau Central in the Senate between 2007-2011 as a patriotic Nigerian who gave the nation and Plateau State his very best at all times.

Governor Lalong mourning is contained in a statement dated 7th April,2021, signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs Makut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

He said the Senator who retired from the army with records of achievements, further proved his dexterity and diligence in politics, business, community service and philanthropy.

Lalong said the State will miss his consistent contributions to the growth and development of Plateau State particularly during its challenging moments where he offered counsel, facilitated engagements and resolutions that helped in mitigating such problems.

While commiserating with his family, friends and associates, Governor Lalong urged them to take comfort in the legacies he left behind and build on it to honour his memory.

Ujah Anaguta Stool : I Will Not lnterfer With Selection Election Of Traditional Rulers——–Gov.Lalong

By,giwa alex, Jos

Governor Bako Lalong of Plateau State has give his words that as the Governor of the state he will not cause disharmony between the Anaguta’s or any other tribal in the state Over the selection of traditional rulers in Anaguta in particular and any other tribes in the state as a whole.

As Governor Lalong promised to allow a level play ground and let the people of Anaguta choose the person or persons they feel is competent to preside over their traditional affairs as the Ujah Anaguta.

Governor Lalong give the assurance today 6th April,2021,as the Governor good will message at the Church Service of late Ujah Anaguta Jauro Magaji held at Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos, plateau state.

Governor Lalong said he has never contemplated involving myself in the selection of any traditional rulers in the state,this is why the nine traditional rulers installed so far has not taken the government to court for shortchanging the process.

That is what can guarantee us peace in the state as mendling into the selection process of traditional ruler may not be healthy and capable of creating crisis in the state, I will not be part of that , which is going to create problems in the state ,I will allow the will of the people to prevail.

Governor Lalong assured free fair and credible election selection of the New Ujah Anaguta and pray that God will give the people like the late Ujah Anaguta,Jauro Magaji to continue his good work to lead his people,but the governor is quick to add that the Anaguta’s should ensure they elect credible person not traditional ruler that will pinch the people against themselves.

“I Urgued the Anagutas to select person like the late Jauro Magaji not the one that would bring crisis to the council ,if that happens,I shall be the one to remove him from power.”He maintained.

Speaking earlier in his good will message on behalf of the traditional rulers in the state, Jacob Jang Buba ,the chairman traditional council in the state said the challenges been face by the traditional institution today is what has been taken care of by Christ Jesus.

The Royal Father assured Government of the unalloyed support of the traditional institution in the state and charged the Anaguta People to as matter of honesty be transparent in the selection of the next Ujah Anaguta devoid of crisis.

The late Ujah Anaguta was born Into the family of Pozo Magaji and Jummai Chibi 15th May,1949.

He started his education at the Township Primary School 1963, diploma in sales Management with London school of salesmanship in 1974 and extral moral classes with center for continuing education university of Jos 1991where he obtained his O.Level G.C.E.

In 1994 the late Ujah of Anaguta obtain Advance Diploma in Public Administration ,post graduate diploma and masters degree in public Administration at Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma ,

Edo state.

Late Jauro Magaji who was nominated for the position of Ujah Anaguta in 1978 was made 2rd class Chief in 2002 after district head for 24 years.

18 years after,he was elevated to the 1st class Chief status by the restoration of Governor Bako Lalong,as the 8th Ujah of Anaguta.

He passed on ,27th March ,2021.

The Funeral Arrangement Of The Late Ujah Of Anaguta Release.

Our Reporter, Jos

The time table for the burial arrangements of HRH the Ujah Of Anaguta Jarom Magaji who pass on few weeks ago has been released.

According to the time table of the burial arrangements,made available to this medium in Jos,plateau state,

Service of Songs today Monday, April,5,2021 by 4:pm at ECWA Nassarawa Being,Jos.

On Tuesday April 6, 2021,

Sympathizers to assemble at New JUTH Mortuary by 8:00am the Corpse depart mortuary by 8:30am to Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos

The Funeral Service will commence by 10:00am at Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos

Final Interment corpse departs Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos to his resident Nabor Gwong for final interment.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, has said day by day, Nigeria drifts irreversibly into a dark tunnel under the All Progressive Congress (APC) led Government.

Kukah, who disclosed this while delivering his Easter message on Sunday, said the nation has since become a massive killing field, as both government and the governed looked on helplessly.

Delivering his message entitled: “Nigeria Before our Glory Departs”, Kukah lamented that traumatised citizens are tortured daily by bandits.

He said things are falling apart daily with unnerving rapidity because those who govern the country have only a pact to protect their interests.

The clergyman said when kidnapped or killed, victims and their families are left to their wits and lamented that they cry and left to bury their loved ones alone.

According to him, “Traumatised citizens are tortured daily by bandits as the nation has since become a massive killing field, both government and the governed look on helplessly. A thick and suffocating cloud of desperation, despondency, desolation, gloom and misery hangs in the hot air.

“We have no message and have no idea how long this will last. Our people seek solace and protection, but frustration and darkness threaten to drown them. Is their government on AWOL?,” he asked.

He further added that while the government expects the citizens to be patriotic, the victims of violence need empathy, which is defined as the ability to understand and share the feelings of the other.

Kukah noted that a critical deficit of empathy on the side of the government makes healing almost impossible for the victims.

“We have not heard anything about a rehabilitation programme for the thousands of schoolchildren who have been victims of abduction.”

“We seem to assume that their return to their schools is sufficient. Left unaddressed, the traumatic effect of their horrors will haunt them for a long time.”

“Tomorrow’s parents, military Generals, top security men and women, governors, senators, and ministers will come from today’s pool of traumatised children. The security quandary is the greatest indictment of this government,” he said.”

Quoting the World Happiness Report, which said the Nigeria was one of the unhappiest nations in the world, he said this was unacceptable but understandable.

“Our clay-footed fight against corruption has not moved the needle of transparency forward.”

“Of course, being the poverty capital of the world comes with its rewards such as banditry, violence, death, sorrow, blood, poverty, misery, and tears. Our cup of sorrow is permanently full; hence the exponential rise in the frustration curve across the country,” he said.”

Sadly, he said human life is hemorrhaging so badly in the country.

He berated the government for investing billions of naira in rehabilitating Boko Haram repentant members and their other partners in crime in the belief that they want to turn a new leaf.

He said these criminals have waged war against their country, murdered thousands of citizens, destroyed infrastructure and rendered entire families permanently displaced and dislocated.

He stressed that why should rehabilitating the perpetrator (Boko Haram) be more important than bringing succour to the victims.

He said the greatest tragedy is the death of empathy from those in power.

“Mysteriously, the government is investing billions of naira in rehabilitating so-called Boko Haram repentant members and their other partners in crime in the belief that they want to turn a new leaf.”

“These criminals have waged war against their country, murdered thousands of citizens, destroyed infrastructure and rendered entire families permanently displaced and dislocated. Why should rehabilitating the perpetrator be more important than bringing succour to the victims?” he asked.

He said when governments face legitimacy crises, they fall back on serving the sour broth of propaganda, half-truths, and outright lies.

Bishop Kukah said, “They manufacture consent by creating imaginary enemies, setting citizens against one another by deploying religion, ethnicity, region, and other platforms while appealing to the base emotions of patriotism.

“We forget the reality that without truth, the throne of power often turns into a cage, and the occupant is turned into a prisoner. In reality, the truth needs neither a judge nor a witness. The truth is its own judge and witness. Without the truth, as the old song says, all else is sinking sand.”

On insecurity, he said “Taunted by Boko Haram, ravaged by bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers, and other merchants of death across the nation, there is collective fear as to whether Nigeria’s glory is about to depart! Retired military and intelligence officers lament over what has become of their glorious profession as they watch the humiliation of our military personnel.

He said in all, Nigeria’s troubles are growing by the day, but our hands must remain stretched out in supplication.

On the national Coat of Arms, he said it profess the nation’s motto: Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress, he asked that Is Nigeria united today? Do citizens still have faith in the country? Where are the signs of peace or progress?

“Today, before our very eyes, these words have been emptied of their flavour and have lost their resonance and capacity to summon our citizens to patriotism,” he said.

Kukah recalled that “with some chance, we might pull through this, but it is getting tougher each passing day. Does anyone remember where we started and how we got here? On May 29th 2015, President Muhammadu Buhari, at his swearing-in as President of Nigeria, said: Boko Haram is a typical case of small fires causing large fires.

“Now, before his watch, the fires are consuming the nation, and in many instances, they indeed start small. The rumblings over the wearing of a hijab in Kwara State suggest that we have not seen the end of individuals sacrificing national cohesion to feed their personal ambitions by starting small fires. Most politicians hardly think through the long-term effects of these pyrrhic victories of using religion.

“What started as a small fire with the adoption of Sharia in Zamfara in 1999, spread across the northern states. Ordinary people broke into ecstatic joy. Today, what has become of the north? What are the lessons?”

Kukah said Nigeria’s current predicament reminds him of Israel’s situation that led to the death of Eli, the great High Priest of Israel whose defeat in the hands of the Philistines led to the death of 30,000 soldiers.

He said, “The two sons of the 98-year-old priest – Hophni and Phinehas – died in the battle. Eli’s two sons had foolishly carried the Ark of the Lord into the battlefield for protection, only for it to become a trophy for the victorious Philistines.

“The high priest, Eli, collapsed and died after hearing this horrible news. Elsewhere, on hearing about the death of her husband, her father-in-law, and the loss of the Ark, Eli’s daughter-in-law went into premature labour. She was delivered of a baby boy–a call for great celebration in Israel! Strangely, she responded by naming her newborn son “Ichabod,” meaning, The glory has departed!”

He said two weeks ago, he came across a video in which a very frustrated Muslim cleric, addressing a Muslim audience, lamented: “If you killed 200 chickens in the farm of any of the big farmers, you will be dealt with.

“But today, we are being killed. It is your fault. On the day of elections, you say, it is Jihad! Christians will take over Nigeria! Ok, the Christians did not take Nigeria. It has been left in the hands of those who sit and see us being killed. If we are killed, the head says, God forbid! He was not elected to say God forbid. This imaginary jihad won the elections now where are the jihadists? The lesson here is that politicians will use religion to mobilise for elections, but they cannot use it to govern.”

The clergyman said the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria weighed in with a strong statement on February 23, 2021, titled, ”We Must Pull Back from the Brink of Collapse.”

Quoting part of the statement, he said: “The very survival of the nation is at stake. The nation is pulling apart. Widespread serious insecurity for long unaddressed has left the sad and dangerous impressions that those who have assumed the duty and authority to secure the nation are either unable or worse, unwilling to take up the responsibilities to their office.

“Patience is running out. Sadly, all of these warnings are still falling on deaf ears,” he pointed out.”

While he said it may sound strange for Christians, the celebration of the resurrection of Christ is the greatest assurance that all these will pass away.

“This is not a call for us to simply sit on our hands or believe we can pray our crises away. As pointed out above, the sufferings of Jesus and His Cross provide us with the perfect mirror of our hope. St. Paul reminds us: We are hard-pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted but not forsaken, struck down but not destroyed.

“We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body (2 Cor. 4:9). These are the hallmarks of our faith. We must remain steadfast,’ he said.

Kukah, however, appealed to Christians to continue in the spirit of the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

“St. Paul says: Though He was God, he humbled himself, became man, and remained obedient up till death (Phil. 2:6ff). Following in His steps, we Christians have lived through the life of martyrdom. Jesus taught us how to pray for our enemies (Mt. 5:44).

“Although His teachings are hard (Jn. 6:60), it was not the guns of a powerful army that brought down the walls of Jericho. The prayers of the priests did (Jos. 6:20). Jesus defied the temptations of coming down from the Cross.

“He knew there was a higher truth deferred. It was fulfilled on Easter day,” he said.

Speaking further, he said no matter the provocation, Christians must arm themselves with the weapons of truth, the word, the spirit, and love.

He said at the heart of Christianity is the truth and love.

He added: “If a religious leader is afraid to say what is right, what else can his silence mean but that he has taken flight? Hiding behind a wall of silence is like taking flight at the approach of the wolf. Pope St. Gregory the Great (540–604 AD).”

Gov.Lalong Condoles With The Family Of Late Hon. Maitala

By, giwa alex, Jos

Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Sunday 4th April 2021 visited the residence of late Hon. Haruna Maitala, Member Representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency at the National Assembly to commiserate with them over the death of the law maker, his son and two aides in an auto accident.

Governor Lalong condolences visit to the law maker’s resident dated 4th April,2021 , signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs Makut Mancham and made available to this medium via WhatsApp in Jos, plateau state capital.

Lalong who was accompanied by the Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden, Secretary to the Government of the State Prof. Danladi Abok Atu some members of his cabinet and Emir of Wase, Alh. Muhammadu Sambo Haruna said the death of the late legislator who was on his way to attend the wedding of one of his sons is not only tragic but painful.

He however urged the family to accept the death in good faith and consider it as an act of God. He further add that the late law maker has done his best and all that remains is for those still living to continue his legacies of kindness, love and sacrifice.

In his words of condolences,Emir of Wase Alh. Muhammadu Sambo said the late Hon. Maitala was a lover of peace and a philanthropist who served his constituency and the State with passion.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Idris Wase was also at the residence to condole with the family.

The family appreciated the visit and thanked the Governor for according them such honour even when their late father was alive.

Prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of the deceased.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Rt.Rev.MSGR.David Jang As New Bishop Of Lafia.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has Felicitates with the Chaplain Government House, Rt. Rev Msgr. David Ajang as Bishop-elect, Catholic Diocese of Lafia by the Holy Father, Pope

Francis.

Governor Lalong said he is excited about the news because of the suitability of Fr. Ajang to carry out the assignment.

Lalong’s felicitation is dated 1st April,2021 is contained in press release signed by Director of press and Pubic Affairs to the Governor Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.

He said apart from working closely with Fr. Ajang as Chaplain of the Government House, he has followed closely his exploits as a member of the College of Consultors of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Jos, and Pastor of the Immaculate Conception and Dean of Zarmaganda in Jos.

The Governor further add that he has no doubt that the newly appointed Bishop-elect will take the Catholic Diocese of Lafia to greater heights as he shepherds the faithful and leads them in the path of righteousness, truth and love.

While thanking Fr. David Ajang for his prayers, counsel and spiritual guidance over the years, Governor Lalong said the new Bishop-elect of Lafia will be remembered for his role in the restoration of peace and prosperity to Plateau State under the Rescue Administration.

He assured him of the prayers and support of the people and Government of Plateau State in his new assignment, promising to stand by him at all times.

Governor Lalong Felicitates With Rt.Rev.MSGR.David Jang As New Bishop Of Lafia.

By,giwa alex, Jos

The plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has Felicitates with the Chaplain Government House, Rt. Rev Msgr. David Ajang as Bishop-elect, Catholic Diocese of Lafia by the Holy Father, Pope

Francis.

Governor Lalong said he is excited about the news because of the suitability of Fr. Ajang to carry out the assignment.

Lalong’s felicitation is dated 1st April,2021 is contained in press release signed by Director of press and Pubic Affairs to the Governor Mackut Mancham and made available to this medium in Jos, plateau state capital.

He said apart from working closely with Fr. Ajang as Chaplain of the Government House, he has followed closely his exploits as a member of the College of Consultors of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Jos, and Pastor of the Immaculate Conception and Dean of Zarmaganda in Jos.

The Governor further add that he has no doubt that the newly appointed Bishop-elect will take the Catholic Diocese of Lafia to greater heights as he shepherds the faithful and leads them in the path of righteousness, truth and love.

While thanking Fr. David Ajang for his prayers, counsel and spiritual guidance over the years, Governor Lalong said the new Bishop-elect of Lafia will be remembered for his role in the restoration of peace and prosperity to Plateau State under the Rescue Administration.

He assured him of the prayers and support of the people and Government of Plateau State in his new assignment, promising to stand by him at all times.

Gov.Lalong Fills 33yrs Vacuum Of Traditional Stool Of Qua’an Pan People.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Governor Lalong of plateau state filled the traditional vacuum of the Qua’an Pan plateau of the Qua’an LG which has remained vacant for 33 years without occupants.

The people of Kwo Chiefdom in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State now have a traditional head.

Similarly, their counterpart of Namu Chiefdom of the same Local Government now have a traditional ruler after about 15 years without one.

This follows the installation and presentation of staffs of office to His Royal Highness, Miskoom Fidelis Longtoe Attahiru as the 27th Long Kwo (2nd class ruler of Kwo Chiefdom) and His Royal Highness Safiyanu Allahnana Magaji III, (Long Jan of Namu Chiefdom).

Speaking at the event which took place at Ba’ap, Headquarters of Qua’an Pan LGA, Governor Simon Lalong said the installation no doubt evokes a lot of passion and excitement among the people of these two Chiefdoms for the fact that they have been without substantive traditional rulers for a very long period of time. Within this period, the people have yearned for the peaceful resolution of the obstacles to this coronation.

He said his government refrained from interfering with the selection of the two traditional rulers as a way of ensuring that the will of the people prevails and the atmosphere for peace and tranquility blossoms in all Chiefdoms.

He urged them to do justice to all and shun any act that will destabilise the peace that has been restored in the Chiefdoms and the State.

He said “Your Royal Highnesses, as you carry out your responsibilities, I advised you to be proactive and work with your people to identify and fish out criminal elements not only for the safety of your jurisdictions but the entire State.

Government will support you to carry out this task in collaboration with the security architecture and the Local Government Administration. In addition, we expect that the recently trained and deployed Community Police Constables and vigilante groups will be carried along in intelligence gathering that is vital to addressing criminality”.

On some security concerns over activities of criminals in forests around the Local Government, the Governor said, “I am aware of the security concerns about criminal activities in and around the forests in Quanpan LGA and others.

Let me assure our people that the Government is working hard to address this situation and enhance security and safety of the people. Already, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the taking over of the Pandam Game Reserve by the Federal Government as a National Park”.

The two traditional rulers promised to work for the unity, peace and progress of their Chiefdoms and be fair to all law abiding citizens residing in their Chiefdoms irrespective of creed, religion or any affiliation.

Earlier, Governor Lalong visited Namu to sympathise with the people over the inferno that destroyed goods worth millions of naira at the Bwall-Namu Yam Market. He urged them not to be deterred as the fire incident is a setback that they have to overcome.

Apart from making an initial donation of 10 million naira, the Governor said the Government will work out a long term plan to create a suitable market and enhance safety of traders and their goods.

Governor Lalong also inspected ongoing construction projects of Shendam bye-pass road, 100-bed mother and child hospital Namu among others.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Gov.Lalong Calls For Collective Action Against Insecurity And Disunity During Easter.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong and Chairman of the Northern State’s Governors Forum has rejoiced with Christians in Plateau State and across the Nigeria for marking another Easter.

The Northern Governor’s Forum Chairman Who doubled as the Governor of Plateau state Stated this in a press statement dated 2nd April,2021, signed by his Director Of Press and Public Affairs Mackut Mancham and made available to journalists in Jos, plateau state capital.

Governor Lalong said there is every reason for Nigerians to appreciate God for his mercies over the nation throughout the difficult period of lockdowns and other disruptions occasioned by the corona virus pandemic.

He said the period of Easter calls for deeper reflection on the grace of God and the strengthening of faith in his love for mankind which is the essence of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Governor therefore urged Nigerians to put aside differences of faith, ethnicity, political and ethnic affiliations in order to forge a common front in defeating various forms of criminal activities that continue to pose serious threats to the nation.

He further add that it is only when Nigerians work together in unity and support security agencies and relevant government bodies that insecurity can be overcome to enable the people pursue their lawful businesses in peace.

On Covid-19, the Governor urged the people of Plateau State to work assiduously towards overcoming the pandemic by availing themselves to be vaccinated and also observing all laid down protocols.

He stressed that“last year, we marked Easter under a lockdown because of COVID-19. However, we now have some relief with the availability of vaccines and more awareness on prevention. We need to redouble our efforts in making sure that we participate in the vaccination exercise and also sensitise our people to adjust to living under the new normal”.

While wishing the people of State and Nigeria a successful Easter celebration, Governor Lalong called on Christians to continue to demonstrate the love of God to one another and people of other faiths and let the light of God manifest in all their activities in order to drive the desired change in the nation.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Gov.Lalong Installs 2 Traditional Rules In Wase,Urgues Them To Work For Enhanced Security.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says traditional rulers need to play a greater role in enhancing the security of their domains and the entire nation.

Governor Lalong stated this on Tuesday, 30th March 2021 while installing two 2nd class Chiefs in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State. The Chiefs are Chief Lot Nden, Ponzhi Kadarko Chiefdom and Alh. Muhammad Asi, Aku-Jukun of Mavo Chiefdom.

While presenting the staffs of office to the two traditional rulers after they took the oath of allegiance, Governor Lalong said the restoration of the two Chiefdoms was in fulfilment of his campaign promise and the desire to meet the yearnings of the people in the spirit of equity and justice.

He charged them to bear in mind the fact that this honour is a huge burden which must be discharged with diligence, honesty, justice and the fear of God.

He said “With the Staffs of Office in your hands, you cease to be champions of one particular clan, tribe, denomination or religion.

You are fathers to all that reside in your domains irrespective of where they come from. Always remember that the traditional institution has played and will continue to play a significant role in the peace, unity, progress and security of Plateau State.

These are the virtues we expect you to promote and uphold as we consolidate on the peaceful ambience we have worked hard to restore which is bringing back Plateau to its place as the Home of Peace and Tourism”.

He said any community leader or traditional ruler who is unable to assist security agencies towards arresting criminals within his domain will be held to account.

“let me warn that any traditional ruler who is found to be promoting ethno-religious hatred, injustice, disharmony or shielding criminals will not only be dethroned, but will be made to face the laws of the land” he warned.

The two traditional rulers described Governor Lalong as a rescue leader who has fulfilled the dreams of the people that have lingered for many years. They promised to cooperate with the Government and support all the programs that are targeted to improving the quality of lives of the people.

Emir of Wase Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna commended Governor Lalong for keeping to his words and making the dreams of the people in the two Chiefdoms come true.

He assured the Governor that the traditional Council will work together to support the Government in all its programmes.

G

ov.Lalong Sworn In New Head Of Service, Permanent Secretaries , Warn Against Ethnic And Religious Bigot.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Governor Bako Lalong has warmed that he put his eyes on the Newly appoined Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries not only for them to ensure they supervise those under them, but to sanction any of them who didn’t do his/her duties diligently.

And warned against promoting ethnicity , religious and politicing civil service which hitherto have professional calling and should remain so.

Governor Bako Lalong give the marching order 29th March,2021, during the swearing in of New Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries held at the Victoria Gowon conference Center Little Rayfield in Jos South LG Plateau State.

He said to further strengthen professionalism in the civil service ,the governor has directed that henceforth , appointments to permanent secretary shall be based on professional aptitude test and examinations that are lCT base.

That will also water down to other levels as we move governance towards E- platforms that will improve efficiency, productivity and value.

He further add that your appointments are not opportunities to engage in self aggrandizement ,self enrichment and pursuance of parochial interest , rather , these responsibilities demands that you take your commitments to the next level by exhibiting high Sense of duty and patriotism.

Governor Lalong therefore congratulate the new Head of Service Engr. Sunday Chong Hyat and the 14 Permanent Secretaries for the well-deserved elevation.

“Indeed you have been serving the State diligently and consistently over the years which has earned you these appointments. I also use this opportunity to congratulate the immediate past Head of Service Mr. Izam Azi, mni, for his meritorious service to the State and retiring without any blemish.”

He changed the appointees,to be grateful for the grace of God in your lives and His benevolence that has kept you throughout the years.

“You may not have started your careers targeting for these appointments, but your steadfastness and sacrifices have enabled you to be recognized and be given this rare privilege.

Governor Lalong quoting from the Scripture to back his statement said,like the Bible says in the book of Proverbs chapter 22v29 ,

“When you see that a man is diligent in his work, he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before obscure men.”

“So your appointments were based on merit and the track record of performance. This does not suggest that your colleagues who were not privileged to be so appointed are not giving their best or are less qualified.”

Again, governor Lalong quote from the book of Ecclesiastes Chapter 9 v11 tells us that

“The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all”.

” Just keep doing your best to serve the State and your time will also come to be elevated and celebrated. “

It is for this reason that those of you appointed must consider your appointments as a great privilege to contribute your quota towards building a greater Plateau State. Indeed you should consider this elevation as a burden that you have to discharge with excellence and patriotism.

By this appointment, Lalong said you are now the cream of the civil service and the custodians of its rich history and traditions.

” You are to set the examples for those under you to follow. As such, you need to uphold the civil service rules that guide policy formulation, implementation, and strategies as well as the conduct of government employees.”

Having been in the system with this administration for the past 6 years, you must have been acquainted with the vision of the Rescue Administration and its 3-point policy framework which has been driving the progress of our State.

Our administration has broadly been pursuing the restoration of peace, security and good governance; developing abandoned and new infrastructure; as well as charting a path for sustainable economic rebirth.

As we consolidate on the progress we have attained in the past six years, the administration expects you to galvanise the entire workforce and ensure that we complete the implementation of our programs and projects. Let me emphasize that the civil service is the driver of all government policies. You must therefore be on your toes in translating policies to action.

Apart from demonstrating absolute loyalty to the Government and the State, you must put in your best to see to the actualization of the 5-year strategic plan which is currently being implemented. Those of you who have not studied that document should get acquainted with it immediately.

I expect you to be above board in your conduct in order to assert yourselves and earn the confidence of those under you. You must play strategic roles as mentors and leaders and be able to punish indolence and reward excellence and loyalty. Do not celebrate nor promote mediocrity, laziness and non-performance.

And urged all civil servants in the state to take advantage of the opportunities provided by Government for training in ICT. In addition, I expect that civil servants will engage in self-development by enrolling in trainings to equip themselves with the latest knowledge in technology for easy application.

You should also shun all acts of corruption and compromise that further stifle the system and deny our people the dividends of democracy. Ensure that you work in line with the efforts of the Rescue Administration to manage public resources with transparency and accountability.

We are doing everything possible to reduce the cost of governance and generate more revenue internally.

Like I submitted last Saturday while delivering the 11th Arewa House Lecture in Kaduna on Reducing the Cost of Governance, we must embrace prudence and adopt cost-cutting measures to save more funds that will be deployed in meeting the needs of our citizens. With commencement of the implementation of the new Revenue Law, we are confident that the income of the State will improve very soon to help us do more things for the people.

Until we reach that threshold, I admonish the appointees to be ready to make the necessary sacrifice because of the current economic realities that have been made worse by COVID-19.

Let me use this opportunity to reassure Plateau State civil servants of the commitment of my administration to continue to prioritise their welfare and well-being. Just like we have been consistent in the payment of salaries and other entitlements including the new minimum wage, we shall ensure that our workers are trained and retrained for better efficiency.

Having established the Plateau State Health Insurance Scheme, we are making arrangements to commence the Contributory Pension Scheme which will bring to an end the agony associated with payment of pension and gratuities of retirees. While we await the take-off of the scheme, the Government is currently in talks with financial institutions to facilitate the clearance of accumulated pension, gratuities and death benefits of retirees. All these are meant to alleviate the sufferings of our civil servants in service and retirement.

I challenge the new Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries to work hard and promote better industrial harmony between the Government and its employees. To this end, I have directed that a Permanent Secretary be designated to handle labour matters in the office of the Head of Service. Government believes that this will provide the desired focus and attention to labour matters and engender industrial harmony.

He called on our citizens, friends, relatives, school mates, professional colleagues and others to kindly pray and support these appointees. Do not add to their pressures or push them towards doing things that are unethical and capable of tarnishing their careers. They are not here to share money or award contracts.

They are here to serve the people and finish their careers on a high note.

The high point of the occasion is the allocation ministry to the permanent Secretaries.

The 14 permanent Secretaries appointed by Lalong is made of 3 women and 11 men.

Izam Azi Thank God At Retirement And Celebration Of 60th Birthday.

By, giwa alex, Jos

The outgoing Head of service Of plateau state Izam Azi has shower thank to God for his blessings and protection upon his live and his family throughout his service as Head of Service of plateau state.

The number one head of civil servants in the state shower the praises today 28th March,2021,at the thanks giving Church service held at the Cocin in Tina junction Jos to mark his final exit from the state civil service and celebration of

his 60th birthday.

Izam who hold sway as the Head of service of plateau state reminisce back when he was born, according to him he said it may interest you to know that I was born twins.

Immediately I was born, go by the story I was told by my parents,I was to be thrown away because I was not breathing normal, but I was told my mother summoned courage blowed air with the aid of her mouth through mine mouth that is how I came back to live.

Izam further said due to his frigil nature when growing up as a child the mother afraid that he might not cope with the village activities, suggested he go and leave with the uncle who was then living in the city , that is how I went through schools.

“If I had stayed in the village like my brothers,today I may not have make it to be educated because of the distance of education from my village and considering my health at that time.”

Izam Azi whose his retirement age concise with his 60th birthday celebration thank governor Bako Lalong for believing on him and appoined him the Head of Service of the state the position he held for five years.

He advise workers not always select where to serve which didn’t really matter,but the most important thing is where ever you find yourself,make sure you put your best in what you do,one day someone somewhere will identify you and recommend you for something that would change your life for good like myself.

The outgoing Head of Service add that as the head of civil servants in the state is not always rosy as many believe,but contrary to their thinking,I face challenges which is that of labour unrest in the state occasion by the recent increment of salary of workers signed Into law by the federal government.

But however,thank the executive governor of the state Bako Lalong for believing in him and always take same of his counsels which make the the government to sumount the labour crisis in the state which was solved with understandings.

He launded the APC administration in the state particularly for the prompt payment of the civil servants salary in the state which had help to enhance their standard of living and improved economic development in the state in general.

In his good will message,governor Lalong said he didn’t regret appointing Izam Into his cabinet as the head of service.

Governor Lalong said Izam is a person you give task to accomplish you can go to sleep without fear.

He further said it was on this backdrop that when the notice of his retirement came to me,I asked him to took for someone like himself that when I give him responsibility I can go to sleep.

He stressed that with the recommendation of Hyat,I believe that I can go to sleep because I didn’t have the course to doubt his choice.

And charged the new head of service to emulate the foot step of his predecessor and put his best in the service of the state.

Speaking earlier the officiating pastor emphasized on the important of thanks giving.

Taking his reading from the book of Luke chapter 17 verse 11, with the topic”Thanks Giving Make Our Health Complete”.

The man of God itemized the important of thanks giving to include,the celebration of God’s gift,it is a moment of togetherness and gratitude and given thanks to God no matter the circumstances.

He stressed that many received series of blessings from God without going back to say thank you God.

He said Izam family has show the difference by coming back to God to say thank you for the blessings and mercies you shower on us.

And argued all to emulate the Izams so as to sustain God blessings in our lives.

Dignitaries who graced the occasion includes, Governor Bako Lalong,the deputy governor Sonni Tyoden,SGS Danladi Atu, commissioners ,royal father’s and many more.

Shehu And His Gang Almost Disable Me With AK47 ,Ponzhi Gowon of Dokya & Ponzhi.

By, giwa alex,Jos

The Traditional Leaders of Wadata Kasuwa and Dokya Communities of Kadarko district of Wase Local Government Council of Plateau ,Ponzhi Domnan Vongjen and Ponzhi Gowon Rimnan have alleged linking gruesome murder of one Maina ,Black Ibrahim and so many sustained various degrees of injuries including Galadima Bwarat ,Dariya.

Chief Vongjen told the court how the ponzhi Jawuri reported the criminal activities been perpetuated by Shehu Jatau and Nanjul Musa causing unnecessary dead and destruction of lives and properties were lands and animals are carted away .

The youth of wadata trail the killer squad of Shehu Jatau and Nanjul Musa to their hideout after killings four persons but the ring leader of the group (Shehu Jatau) said he would personally present the culprit to the security agencies so no need for them to waste their precious time .

The Ponzhi Wadata Kasuwa ,Chief Domnan Vongjen who told the court that ,Mr Shehu Jatau is a child of his elder brother while Nanjul Musa is the son of his Junior brother both were made known to him during the 2002 crisis that engulfed the Wase LGA between the Tarok speaking natives and the Fulanis were thousands displaced persons came to take refugees under his leadership .

He further said after the crises ended he relocat back to Kurmi in Taraba state where he came from and then, in 2019 the Chief of Jawuri reported to me that my sons are terrorizing them with constant attacks and carting away their animals farm produce and even their farmlands .

Vongjen explained that he invited Shehu Jatau and Nanjul Musa then he advice them to stop killing their own brothers .

According to him , few days after peaceful discussion, I was at home Shehu and Nanjul arrived my compound in the evening asking me questions that they are old enough to take their own decision concerning their fate .

However, that didn’t go down well with them they invaded my residence burntdown the entire building by setting it on fire ,including that of our sarkin Kasuwa, Galadima ,other leaders in Wadata Kasuwa leaving no fewer than many death bodies and casualties .

My Lord, I escape the deadly onslaught of Shehu to the nearby bushed were I was watching them setting the entire edifice on fire and his boys are using axes to bring down my buildings .

He pointed out that the attack lasted for a whole day which forced me to escape to Langtang South from there I moved to Langtang North LGA were where spent one year without going back to Wadata Kasuwa .

When sought to know by the defense counsel Prof S.S.Shikyil ,Domnan told the court that he reported the incident to the Police Headquarters in the state were no arrest was effected .

Meanwhile, the Ponzhi Gowon Rimna gave his details that the same day he went to drink at nearby uncle Galadima beer parlour Shehu Jatau and Nanjul Musa drove in with one Boka motor cycle shot at him and shattered his left leg .

POH Raises Alarm Over The Influx Of Fulanis Into Quan-Pan LG

By,giwa alex, Jos

Group under the auspacies of Plateau our Heritage, (POH),has raised an alarm over the lnflux of some strangers believed to be Fulanis into Quan-Pan LG of plateau state.

The alarm is raised by Plateau Our Heritage (POH)in a press release signed by the chairman Alex Kwapnoe and the convener Pam Ayuba Dangwong and made available to this medium in Jos , plateau state capital.

The statement reads, I has been taken aback by a disturbing revelation by the executive Chairman of Quan Pan local government area of Plateau state,Hon. Abdulmalik Yusuf Haruna that hinged on illegal movement in to plateau state government’s owned Pandam Game Reserve by unknown fulani herdsmen.

Though, the POH would have ignored the interview he granted a national newspaper, the “Daily Asset” on the discovery, but because of the tension this encroachment had generated and is still generating in a similar reserve in the southern parts of the country, the POH deems it necessary to lend its voice to the concern the council.

Chairman had said in the interview that, “We have earlier on sent surveillance team and have alerted Government. We can’t denied the fact that the movements today, people were been pursued from somewhere and normally they have to seek for safe haven.

The issue of Pandam, we have been complaining long ago because it has been abandoned by the State Government for quite a long time. There are Fulanis there we can not denied that fact, but we can’t say they are plenty or whatsoever but few are there. We have gone there with two surveillance and we have alerted the state government”

While we commend the federal government for its plans to take over the game reserve as was disclosed by the executive governor of Plateau state, Barr. Simon Lalong during his recent media parley, the discovery of an influx of unknown persons into the forest reserves in their numbers without their wives, children and valuables is the reason for a call for immediate intervention by concerned authorities to halt the trend.

We are equally challenged by the concerns raised by the Pan Youth Association, PYA, in a release signed by Comr. Dama Yonmi, the National President of the association who stated that “It is on record that from the North, South to the Eastern part of Nigeria, the peculiar security challenges has seen Fulani herdsmen illegally occupying reserve areas and not only that, but using such forests as launch pad for series of unusual crimes such as banditry, kidnapping, rape and all sort of terrorist activities connected there to” and as a responsible body, the POH has no choice but to support this assertion.

And coming from a reliable news medium like the “Daily Asset” that “There is heavy movement of persons believed to be strange Fulanis into the famous Pandam Game Reserve located in Qua’an Pan local government areas of Plateau State confirmed by locals” is quite disturbing when viewed from the security challenges our people and other Nigerians are going through, it is therefore a cause for concern which needs urgent and proactive govt intwrvention.

And for sources to lament that already some of their women and daughters are being raped by the foreign occupants of the Park whenever they go to look for firewood” is unacceptable and the government must rise up to its responsibilities.

The news quoting a community source hinted that as a vigilant community, “all the time, we have tried our best by informing the security agencies, qnd the Traditional Council but it seems no body is taking it serious even with what they are already doing to our people,” they cried out”, indicating clearly that the matter is beyond them and help must reach them at this critical moment.

The POH is joining all well meaning and peace loving stakeholders to call on the Plateau and federal governments to investigate this and rise to the occasion before it becomes late.

Our people have suffered unjustly because of seeming carelessness of the authorities in the past and we are alerting on this situation because as the adage says “a stitch in time saves nine”

Gov.Lalong Canvasses For Reduction In Cost Of Governance To Fund Development.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Chairman of Northern Governors Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong says all tiers of Government in Nigeria must as a matter of urgency cut down on the high cost of Governance in order to fund critical areas of development that will address challenges of Nigerians.

Governor Lalong said this while delivering the 11th Annual Memorial Lecture in honour of late Sir Ahmadu Bello at the Arewa House, Kaduna.

Governor Lalong whose lecture was entitled “Reducing the Cost of Governance for Inclusive Growth and Youth Development in Post COVID-19 Northern Nigeria” said the high cost of governance has further increased the inability of the governments at all levels to meet the basic needs of the people.

He said factors such as corruption, insecurity, large number of Government appointees, high salaries, corruption, among others are among some of the factors that drive the high cost of governance in the country. He insisted that this must be addressed immediately to change the trajectory of growth in Nigeria and the North in particular.

Lalong said the high cost of governance has worsened the standard of living in the Northern part of the country which continues to battle with infrastructure deficit, poverty, illiteracy, culture of patronage laziness, diseases and insecurity.

He said the Northern Governors Forum has seriously examined the economic situation in the region and is working in unison to address the high cost of governance and other obstacles to development.

Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari who represented President Muhammadu Buhari said the Federal Government has continued to implement various cut-cutting measures to reduce the cost of governance and free resources for development.

He said so far, the results are positive and the Federal Government will work with State Governments including those of the Northern region in adopting measure that will reduce huge spending and wastages so that funds will be available for development.

Chairman of the occassion, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu said the discourse is timely as the nation needs to prioritise its spending and get more resources towards addressing the problems of the common man.

The Lecture was attended by many dignitaries from across the country as well as Governors from the northern region.

Awards were bestowed on six former Governors of the Northern region who served meritoriouly and founded the Arewa House. Among them is former Governor of Benue Plateau State, late Joseph Gomwalk.

Gov.Lalong Felicitates With NDE Joshua Waklek @72

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has felicitates with the former Accountant General of Plateau State Nde Joshua Waklek, mni, as he marks 72 years.

Governor Lalong’s felicitation message dated 27th March,2021 , signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor Mackut Macham and made available to this medium in Jos.

The Governor in a message of felicitation described Nde Waklek who is also Wazirin Pankshin as an astute professional who continues to deploy his vast experience to the service of Plateau State, Nigeria and humanity having served in several capacities in the State including Permanent Secretary.

He said the elderstatesman carries with him a rich pedigree of patriotism, diligence and excellence that has characterised his life as a civil servant and even at retirement.

Lalong said as Chairman, Governing Council of Nigeria’s premier University, the University of Ibadan, Nde Waklek has proven to be a man of honour and integrity as he has brought stability to the institution, making it remain focused on research and learning.

As strong member of the Kaduna Polytechnic Alumni Association, he has equally demonstrated his passion for educational development, especially technical and skills building.

The Governor also said Nde Waklek who was one time President of the Ngas Development Association continues to show deep passion and commitment to the promotion and sustainance of the Ngas culture and tradition by mentoring the younger generation to appreciate their heritage.

Governor Lalong wished him well and prayed that God will continue to grant him good health, divine protection and wisdom as he remains humble and generous.

Plateau Targets Higher Revenues ,As Gov.Lalong Inaugurates Revenue Council/PIRS Governing Board

By,giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Government is aiming for higher internally generated revenue (IGR) as the State Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Thursday 25th March 2021 inaugurated the Plateau Revenue Council and Governing Board of the State Internal Revenue Service.

The Governor described the event as another milestone in the journey of the State towards improved revenue generation and self-sufficiency. He said the inauguration sets the tone for the full implementation of the new Plateau State (Consolidated) Revenue Law, also known as the Revenue Law 2020, which he assented to, in November 2020.

The Governor said “even before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, our administration has continued to make frantic efforts towards improving the revenue profile of the State by looking inwards for more internally generated revenue. Instructively, experts’ projections indicate that Plateau State has an internal revenue capacity of more than N5 Billion Naira per month.

This explains why before the disruption caused by COVID-19, our administration was able to jerk up its Internally Generated Revenue from about six hundred million naira monthly in 2015 to about nine hundred million in 2019. This shows that the projection by experts is in the right direction and we can actually do far more than we have been doing if we put our house in order”.

The Governor explained that in line with his resolve to improve the revenue profile of the State, his administration engaged Compliance Professionals Plc. (CPP), a reputable tax consortium, to help steer the transformation of revenue administration across the State, including at Local Government levels.

This engagement led to the development and implementation of the plan to effectively transit from the current state to a harmonized internal revenue generation and collection system, thereby improving efficiency and effectiveness and significantly increasing bottom lines.

He charged the 18-man Revenue Council which he Chairs to ensure that it works within its terms of reference to ensure that the revenue of the State is improved.

The Council shall be responsible for Coordinating all revenue activities in the State; Making policies, regulations and guidelines on revenue matters; Setting up structures for whistle blowing; Reviewing revenue rates; As well as identifying other sources of funding for the state.

Similarly, the Governor inaugurated the Governing Board for the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service.

Lalong appealed to all citizens to cooperate with the new revenue drive as the State has a lot of projects to carry out but needs resources. The days of looking up to Abuja according to him are over because the national purse is also depleted.

The Governor assured that every kobo will not only be accounted for, but used for projects and programmes that have direct impact on lives of the people.

Gov.Lalong Appoints New Head Of Service/Permanent Secretaries.

By, giwa alex, Jos

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has approved the appointment of Engr. Sunday Chong Hyat as the new Head of Service for the State.

This follows the retirement of the Head of Service, Mr. Izam Azi, mni, having attained the mandatory age of 60.

The new Head of Service Engr. Hyat was until his appointment, the Permanent Secretary, General Administration in the office of the Head of Service.

Engr. Sunday Chong Hyat, mni, was born on 3rd February 1963, in Ganawuri, Riyom Local Government Area.

He attended Boys Secondary School Gindiri before proceeding to the Federal University of Technology Minna where he graduated with B. Eng. Civil Engineering. He has a Diploma Computer Application from the University of Jos.

He was one time Chairman, Nigeria Society of Engineers Jos branch, and later served as the Council Member representing North Central on the Board of COREN. He is a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers and is registered with the American Society of Civil Engineers.

An alumnus of the prestigious National Institute for policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru, Engr. Hyat has been Permanent Secretary in various ministries including and Works, Lands, Survey and Town Planning.

Meanwhile Governor Lalong has expressed appreciation to the outgoing Head of Civil Service, Mr. Izam Azi for his patriotic and diligent service to the State.

Similarly, the Governor has approved the appointment of 14 new Permanent Secretaries in the State civil service.

Those appointed include:

1. Ishaya Turba

2. Istifanus John

3. Ibrahim Kam

4. Alfed Zaman Datoel

5. Jacob Bitrus Keng

6. Ambrose Danjuma Allaburah

7. Annastesia Dongjur

8. Jesse Nimyel Miri

9. Alexander Plangnan

10. Kande Gotom

11. Fanto John Nanghin

12. Selfa Dashe

13. Nanlop Gupiya

14. Sunday G. Biggs

The new Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries will be sworn in on Monday 29th March 2021.

Zango Kataf Stakeholders Sue For Peace, Appeals To Operation Safe Haven To Remain.

By,giwa alex, Jos

Following the violent protest staged by women and misguided youths of Gon Gora Kataf in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State on 23 March 2021, the leadership of the community has visited the troops of OPSH in the area to tender their unreserved apologies for the misconduct.

The visit by the Community to OPSH is contained in press release dated 25th March,2021 , signed by the security outfit media officer Major Ibrahim Shittu and made available to this medium in Jos, Plateau State capital.

The delegation included the community leaders, religious leaders, chairman of Zangon Kataf LGA, traditional rulers, youths and women leaders, retired permanent secretaries, and other eminent citizens of Zangon Kataf LGA.

Speaking during the reconciliation visit, the team leader and chairman Zangon Kataf LGA, Dr Eliaz Manza said they dissociated themselves and the whole community from the activities of the violent protesters, noting that troops presence was for their safety and security, stressing that OPSH is doing much towards bringing the lasting peace in Southern Kaduna in general and Zangon Kataf in particular.

The team leader assured that such violent act would never reoccur again, therefore pleaded that OPSH should remain in their locality. He further assured the operation of their support and cooperation towards achieving the lasting peace in the area.

N

TDC To Partner Plateau State On Tourism

By, giwa alex, Jos

The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) Mr. Folorunsho Coker has assured the Plateau State Government that his agency will work with the State in harnessing the abundant tourist potentials in the State.

Mr. Coker was speaking when he visited Governor Simon Lalong at the New Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.

He said, Plateau State known as the Home of Peace and Tourism has both the natural and human advantage in terms of tourism and hospitality. All that is needed according to him are proactive and firm initiatives to tap into the endowments.

He praised Governor Simon Lalong for restoring peace in Plateau State which has again restored confidence in the citizens as well as reassured investors, tourist and other visitors to return to Plateau State for business and leisure.

Coker announced that the NTDC will carry out its intervention in one of the tourist sites in Plateau State, the Kurra Falls as it has made provisions in its 2021 budget. He also promised to ensure that Plateau State is rebranded and marketed on the national and international tourism platforms and calendars so as to reinforce and repackage the natural gifts of weather, people and alluring sites.

Governor Lalong while welcoming the DG NTDC and members of his entourage to Plateau State, said the State has continued to work towards developing its tourism assets which are key to the economic blueprint of the State.

He appreciated the gesture of the NTDC in developing Kurra Falls, one of its oldest and famous tourist sites, saying the Government has put a lot of emphasis in developing tourism as a major source of revenue.

He said the choice of Kurra Falls is very timely considering the recent visit of HYPADEC to the State where they are also going to intervene in various areas around the communities of the Falls which is the first place where hydropower was generated in Nigeria.

Lalong assured the NTDC Management that his doors were open for further collaboration in many areas that will assist in bringing more people to the various tourist attractions across Plateau State.