A storm is brewing in Nigeria’s ivory towers as a coalition of leading academics has raised alarm over what they describe as the “reckless commercialization and illegal use of academic titles” across the country.
In an open petition addressed to the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Honourable Minister of Education, the Chairmen of the House and Senate Committees on Education, the National Security Adviser, and the Inspector General of Police, the Coalition of Academics and Professors for Qualified Use of Academic Titles (CAPQAT), led by Prof. Adeyemi Johnson Ademowo, warned that Nigeria’s academic integrity is under siege.
According to the petition, the abuse of titles such as “Dr.” and “Professor” has now become rampant, aided by diploma mills in the Benin Republic, questionable bible colleges, unrecognized professional bodies, and dubious foreign universities.
The coalition cited instances where individuals conferred with honorary doctorates, graduates of unaccredited bible colleges, and recipients of paper degrees from diploma mills now prefix “Dr.” before their names, misleading the public and ridiculing genuine scholars.
More disturbing, CAPQAT alleged that Prowess University and other unaccredited institutions in neighbouring Benin Republic have turned the trade in fake doctorates into a business empire, encouraging Nigerians to parade such titles as earned qualifications.
Even more shocking is the revelation that an Abuja-based realtor allegedly acquired and now parades himself as a “Professor of Entrepreneurship”, claiming the title was “dashed” to him by a questionable American institution.
Others, the coalition said, have joined the bandwagon, boasting similar titles from the so-called American University of Business and Social Sciences (AUBSS) and related unrecognized bodies.
Prof. Ademowo stressed that Nigeria already has enough laws to punish such fraud but lamented that enforcement has been weak.
He referenced provisions in the Criminal Code Act (Cap. C38, S463) prescribing up to 14 years imprisonment or a ₦500,000 fine for falsification of academic credentials; the NUC Act (1974), which prescribes up to ₦1 million in fines; and the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria Act (1993), which prescribes up to 2 years imprisonment or a ₦200,000 fine for unauthorized use of academic titles.
“The problem is not the absence of law,” the petition declared, “but the absence of enforcement.”
In the petition, CAPQAT demanded that the Federal Government :
– Enforce existing laws against fake use of “Dr.” and “Prof.” titles.
– Blacklist and ban dubious institutions such as Prowess University and AUBSS.
– Clarify publicly that honorary doctorates, bible college degrees, and professional body “doctorates” are symbolic and do not confer the right to prefix “Dr.”
– Launch a nationwide awareness campaign to sensitize Nigerians and the media on the proper use of academic titles.
– Institute a Joint Task Force involving the NUC, Ministry of Education, DSS, and Police to monitor and prosecute offenders.
Prof. Ademowo, who signed the petition on behalf of the coalition, warned that “every unqualified ‘Dr.’ or fake ‘Professor’ diminishes the sweat, rigour, and intellectual labour of those who have genuinely earned these distinctions.”
He called for scapegoats to be made of offenders to restore the dignity of Nigeria’s higher education system. “The time to act is now,” CAPQAT concluded.
Jos, Plateau State, was thrown into a sober mood on Thursday as former Governor Joshua Chibi Dariye led his entourage to the residence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, to pay a heartfelt condolence visit.
The visit followed the passing of the Chairman’s mother, Mama Lydia Toma Yilwatda, whose death has continued to attract a flood of sympathies and tributes from across Nigeria.
On arrival, Dariye expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the matriarch, describing her as “a rare mother of virtue and character, whose footprints of discipline, faith, and resilience will forever inspire generations on the Plateau and beyond.”
The former Governor, visibly moved, offered prayers for God’s comfort and strength upon the bereaved family, urging them to uphold the values Mama Lydia stood for.
In his response, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, overwhelmed by the show of solidarity, thanked Dariye and his delegation for standing with his family in their darkest hour.
He noted that such gestures of compassion and unity from leaders across divides reaffirm the Plateau spirit of togetherness.
Mama Lydia, until her passing, was revered as a pillar of her community, a woman whose unwavering devotion to family, faith, and humanity etched her name in the hearts of many.
…….Says Plateau Daughter’s Rise To National Honour.
By, giwa alex, Jos
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has felicitated with veteran broadcaster, Stella Din-Jacob, on her appointment as the new Executive Director, News, of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
In a congratulatory message dated August 22, 2025, and signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang described Din-Jacob’s elevation as both a personal honour and a testament to Plateau State’s proud tradition of producing outstanding professionals who contribute immensely to national development.
The Governor expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding a worthy daughter of Plateau for such a strategic position, stressing that the appointment recognizes Din-Jacob’s professional distinction and her decades-long impact on the Nigerian media landscape.
He traced her remarkable career spanning Silverbird Group, Minaj Broadcast Group, Channels Television, and TVC News, where her contributions significantly shaped public discourse and promoted national cohesion.
Governor Mutfwang particularly commended her leadership in steering one of Nigeria’s largest newsrooms, noting her vision, balance, and fairness in reporting, which have strengthened democratic values and influenced governance.
While celebrating her resilience, integrity, and commitment to justice and equity, the Governor urged Din-Jacob to continue upholding the virtues of excellence, empathy, tolerance, and accommodation, qualities he said embody the Plateau spirit and are essential for peace and unity in Nigeria.
The Plateau State House of Assembly has pledged full legislative support for the implementation of resolutions reached at the just-concluded 11th Plateau State Council of Health, vowing to turn the outcomes into actionable laws and policies that will reposition the state’s health sector.
The four-day council, held from 19h to 21st August 2025 at Crispan Hotel, Jos, was themed: “Repositioning Plateau State Health System Towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage.”
The annual Council of Health has over the years served as a key platform for policymakers, professionals, and stakeholders to review health policies and chart new directions.
While previous councils produced far-reaching recommendations, many were left at the level of communiqués without legislative backing. This year, lawmakers say, will be different.
Addressing journalists at the closing session, the Member representing Langtang -North Central Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Health, Hon. Nambole Listic, declared that the Assembly would not allow the 2025 resolutions to gather dust.
“As legislators, we participated actively in this council because of its importance to our people. From what we have seen and heard, these resolutions will guide us in drafting policies that we will send to the House for legislative approval. With the insights gathered here, we will put up a strong framework that will reposition our health sector and bring Plateau closer to achieving Sustainable Development Goal No3,” Hon. Listic said.
The lawmaker, who also doubles as the Majority Whip, emphasized that the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a collective aspiration of the House.
“Universal Health Coverage is what every legislator yearns for because if our constituents are healthy, they spend less on treatment and have more strength to carry out their businesses effectively. A healthy population is a productive population,” he stressed.
Hon. Listic assured that the 10th Plateau State House of Assembly is determined to back the resolutions of the 11th Council with strong legislative instruments to ensure better healthcare delivery across the state.
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Thursday, August 21, 2025, joined family, friends, and associates in celebrating the birthday of the former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly and Special Adviser on Legislative Matters, Rt. Hon. Nuhu Ayuba Abok.
In a glowing congratulatory message, Governor Mutfwang described Abok as a visionary leader and vibrant Plateau youth, whose sterling record of selfless service continues to inspire and positively impact society.
The Governor recalled the celebrant’s courageous leadership during critical moments in the State’s history, stressing that Abok’s steadfast defence of the Plateau heritage and people’s collective aspirations remains unforgettable.
Mutfwang urged the celebrant to remain resolute in upholding the timeless values of justice, fairness, and compassion, virtues he said embody the true spirit of Plateau.
He further commended Abok’s dedication to public service, peace, and unity, adding that his commitment to grassroots development and communal living has strengthened the bonds of brotherhood and resilience among Plateau citizens.
Highlighting his bridge-building efforts, the Governor praised the former Speaker’s role in fostering inclusiveness and promoting people-centred leadership that transcends political, ethnic, and religious divides.
Governor Mutfwang heartily congratulated Rt. Hon. Abok, praying for renewed strength, divine wisdom, and abundant health as he continues to render quality legislative counsel for the progress and development of Plateau.
……..Chairman Dung Races To Scene, Assures Government’s Quick Intervention
By,giwa alex, Jos
A violent rainstorm on Tuesday night wreaked havoc in Kerana Village, Bukuru Ward of Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, destroying no fewer than 30 houses and leaving many residents stranded. The storm also tore down the main entrance gate of the Jos South Local Government Secretariat, forcing the council to divert operations through an emergency exit.
In the early hours after the incident, the Executive Chairman of Jos South Local Government Council, Hon. Patrick Silas Dung, stormed the affected community to see things for himself. He sympathized with displaced families, offering words of encouragement and urging solidarity among residents.
“This is a very unfortunate incident,” he said. “It’s a natural occurrence, a storm, not a flood.
We will also assess other communities to know the level of damage and determine our intervention.”
On his arrival at the Secretariat, the Chairman ordered the collapsed gate cordoned off to avert casualties.
He disclosed that technical experts and relevant agencies had been contacted to safely dismantle the structure before it causes further harm.
“We have already created an alternative entrance into the council secretariat which I used today.
Thankfully, the main building is still intact, except for some debris around the carports,” Dung explained.
Though no lives were lost, the storm left several people injured.
The victims are currently undergoing medical checks, including scans, to rule out internal bleeding.
“Our joy is that there are no deaths. Those injured are being treated and monitored in the hospital,” the Chairman confirmed.
Dung appealed to residents, security agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to provide shelter and relief to displaced families.
“We are our brothers’ keepers,” he said. “If you know you have space to accommodate some of the displaced, please come forward.”
The Chairman also revealed that he had contacted the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
According to him, the Director-General has pledged immediate support to cushion the hardship of victims while long-term recovery plans are being considered.
“We will do everything possible as a council to reduce the hardship caused by this disaster,” Dung concludes
In what has been described as a landmark reform in the education sector, the Edo State Government has announced sweeping new policies set to take effect from the 2025/2026 academic session.
The Ministry of Education, in a decisive statement on Wednesday, said the policies are designed to bring stability, consistency, and quality learning across schools while easing the burden on parents.
First on the list is the Textbook Reuse Policy.
Henceforth, younger siblings will be allowed to use already approved textbooks purchased by older ones.
All government-approved textbooks will remain in circulation for a minimum of four years before any review.
Next is the new guideline on school celebrations.
The government has placed a ban on graduation parties for nursery, kindergarten, and primary six pupils.
From now on, only pupils completing Basic Education (JSS3) and Senior Secondary School (SS3), will be permitted to hold graduation ceremonies.
Even at that, only modest celebrations will be allowed, while flamboyant parties and proms have been completely outlawed.
Perhaps the most revolutionary of all is the introduction of compulsory skills training for all JSS 3 students.
Beginning in the 2025/2026 session, every JSS 3 graduate will walk away with two certificates :
The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), and A Skills Acquisition Certificate in a chosen trade subject.
According to the Ministry, this move aligns with the inclusion of new trade subjects in the national curriculum and seeks to ensure that students leave school not only with academic knowledge but also with practical entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive world.
With these far-reaching reforms, the Edo State Government insists it is determined to raise a new generation of students who are innovative, self-reliant, and globally competitive.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Mama Ruth Sati Dakwak, mother of the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Blessing Dalyop Dakwak.
Leading a delegation to the family residence in Jos, Governor Mutfwang described the late matriarch as a virtuous woman who lived a fulfilled life and raised children who continue to uphold her values.
“Death is painful, but when we live long to a ripe age, we must also say, thank you, Lord. Every day we have to live is a privilege, and when God allows us to reach old age, we can only look back and be grateful for the opportunity,” the Governor remarked.
He praised Mama Ruth Sati Dakwak’s enduring legacy, noting that her life bore fruit evident in the achievements of her children.
“I believe Mama lived a good life. The evidence is in the children she has left behind. If she hadn’t done so, they would not have risen to where they are today.
Certainly, death will always leave a void, but that vacuum can only be filled by the good Lord. For those of us alive, it is also a time to reflect on our own lives, correct our mistakes, and ensure that when our turn comes, we will not be found wanting,” he added.
Governor Mutfwang encouraged the family to take solace in the enduring memories of their mother and the values she instilled, while praying for God’s strength and comfort for them at this time of loss.
Responding on behalf of the family, Justice Yakubu Pam Dakwak, former Chief Judge of Plateau State, expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for his presence and words of comfort during their bereavement.
The condolence visit was witnessed by senior government officials, members of the judiciary, traditional rulers, and community representatives, who joined the Governor in consoling the Dakwak family.
The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has restated its firm commitment to advancing healthcare development in Plateau State.
This assurance was given at the opening of the 11th Plateau State Council on Health in Jos, where the organisation’s Regional Manager for Jos, Mr. Timzing Miri-Dashe, represented the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Patrick Sunday Dakum.
Miri-Dashe said IHVN was attending the high-powered council meeting as a partner and stakeholder in the state’s healthcare progress.
He emphasized that the Plateau State Ministry of Health needs the expertise and collaboration of development partners to strengthen policies and improve service delivery for citizens.
He explained that IHVN’s presence at the event was a clear demonstration of its readiness to work hand-in-hand with the government and other stakeholders to achieve better health outcomes.
Reflecting on the opening session, Miri-Dashe described the ceremony as “quite impressive.”
He observed that Governor Caleb Mutfwang officially declared the council open, while goodwill messages were delivered by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and a representative of the Federal Minister of Health.
Looking ahead, the IHVN representative expressed optimism that the four-day council meeting will provide a solid platform to address critical health challenges, deliberate on policies, and chart a fresh course for improved healthcare delivery in Plateau State.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has been hailed for his people-centered reforms in the health sector, with particular focus on primary healthcare delivery across the state.
Delivering the commendation on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025, at the opening of the 11th Plateau State Council on Health, the Executive Director of the Plateau State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Raymond Juryit, said the governor has demonstrated “a strong and unwavering commitment” to transforming the health sector.
According to Dr. Juryit, Governor Mutfwang’s administration has already revitalized 82 primary healthcare facilities, with 10 fully completed, and is working in top gear to ensure at least one functional health facility in every political ward of the state.
He emphasized that the administration understands the crucial role of health insurance in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) but lamented that low enrollment rates remain a major challenge that must be urgently tackled.
To address manpower gaps, Dr. Juryit revealed that the government has approved the recruitment of 1,450 new healthcare workers, including skilled bed attendants, laboratory scientists, pharmacists, and doctors.
In addition, he disclosed that the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP) has been launched to provide solar power to 25 primary healthcare centers, ensuring uninterrupted services particularly in rural areas.
On medical supplies, Dr. Juryit stated that the administration is collaborating with the Drug and Consumables Management Agency to make essential drugs readily available at primary health facilities across Plateau State.
Backing these reforms with massive funding, he revealed that Governor Mutfwang has invested ₦2 billion in medical infrastructure and secured over $400,000 worth of medical supplies through partnerships with international organizations.
Dr. Juryit noted that these measures are geared towards improving access to quality healthcare, reducing out-of-pocket spending by citizens, and enhancing overall well-being, especially in underserved communities.
“Governor Mutfwang has shown clear leadership and commitment.
His vision is to make healthcare accessible, affordable, and sustainable for every Plateau citizen.
This is not just governance, but a revolution in health delivery,” Dr. Raymond Juryit declared.
In what he described as a “sacred promise to every Plateau citizen,” Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across Plateau State.
The Governor made the declaration while addressing stakeholders at the 11th Plateau State Council on Health in Jos, stressing that access to healthcare must never be a privilege but a guaranteed right for all.
Governor Mutfwang reeled out groundbreaking strides that have reshaped the state’s health landscape, including :
Expansion of primary healthcare facilities across the 17 LGAs, with a target of at least one fully functional health center in every ward.
Boost in PLASCHEMA enrollment, providing special cover for pregnant women, under-fives, the elderly, and people living with disabilities.
Strengthening of the State Drug & Commodities Agency, ensuring safe and affordable medicines.
Overhaul of the Plateau State Specialist Hospital with 22 new consultants, ₦2 billion worth of cutting-edge equipment, and the launch of electronic medical records.
Acknowledging lingering gaps such as underserved rural areas and uneven health worker distribution, Mutfwang assured citizens that his government is acting decisively : “We are recruiting, training, and retaining health professionals with incentives for rural postings and safer work environments.
Our vision is clear ,no Plateau citizen should be denied care because of location or cost.”
Shared Responsibility The Governor called for collective action, insisting that healthcare transformation is not the government’s task alone :
“A healthy Plateau is a prosperous Plateau. Every professional, policymaker, partner, and citizen must play their role.
We will invest, we will reform, and we will lead with transparency. The time to act is now.”
The Honourable Commissioner for Health, in his goodwill address, hailed the Governor’s leadership, describing governance as “stewardship and accountability,” while noting the national recognition accorded to Mutfwang by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and the House Committee on Health.
The Council, themed “Repositioning the Plateau State Health System Towards Universal Health Coverage,” convened a broad spectrum of stakeholders including the Plateau State House of Assembly, civil society, traditional rulers, WHO, UNICEF, Carter Center, and APIN. All pledged renewed support for Plateau’s march towards UHC.
The Chief Medical Director of Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), Dr. Pokop Bupwatda, has strongly advocated that health workers should be posted to serve in their local government areas of origin, insisting that such a policy would revolutionize primary healthcare delivery in Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
Dr. Bupwatda made this passionate call on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025, during an interview with journalists at the 11th Plateau State Council on Health held at Crispan Hotel, Jos.
According to the CMD, posting personnel outside their communities often leads to divided attention and avoidable loss of lives, as many workers shuttle between their work stations and their families.
“Why post someone from Jos North to the Southern Zone? He will be distracted, and the job will suffer.
If we identify people within their locality, train them for their health centers, and retain them there, they will serve wholeheartedly because they already belong to that community,” Bupwatda stressed.
He explained that training six to ten locals per community would eliminate the burden of transfers, accommodation challenges, and absenteeism, ensuring a steady healthcare presence in rural areas.
Dr. Bupwatda also urged the government to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with personnel to guarantee comfort while serving in rural postings.
He emphasized the need for housing, electricity or alternative power, internet access, and proper welfare support, to keep them connected and motivated.
Highlighting the role of technology, the CMD said healthcare workers in rural communities can always consult senior doctors remotely during emergencies.
“If a worker faces a case beyond their expertise, they should be able to call a consultant for guidance.
If it requires referral, the patient will be directed to JUTH or another facility with the right human resources,” he explained.
He underscored the importance of the State Council on Health, describing it as the right platform to design policies that can fix primary healthcare challenges.
“This is the practical way to close the gaps and ensure health workers are always available for the people within rural communities,” he added.
On wider reforms, Dr. Bupwatda revealed that under his leadership, JUTH has keyed into the National Emergency Medical System (NEMAS) launched by the Federal Ministry of Health under Dr. Ali Pati, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The initiative ensures that victims of accidents, gunshot wounds, snakebites, and pregnancy-related complications receive treatment free of charge.
He noted that more state governments are already buying into the scheme to expand emergency healthcare coverage nationwide.
“When healthcare workers live with the people they serve, there will be commitment, continuity, and better outcomes for citizens,” he declared.
The Chairman of Riyom Local Government Area, Hon. Sati Bature Shuwa, has raised alarm over the worsening insecurity ravaging his council, appealing passionately to Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, to empower his people to protect their ancestral land.
Hon. Shuwa made the appeal on Monday, August 18th, 2025, while addressing journalists at the opening of the 11th Plateau State Council on Health held at Crispan Hotel, Rayfield Road, beside the Air Force Base in Jos.
The council boss lamented that Riyom, the gateway into Plateau State, has come under sustained attacks allegedly carried out by armed Fulani militias, creating fear, panic, and displacing many who would have contributed to the development of the area.
According to him, the persistent insecurity has discouraged non-indigenes from accepting postings to Riyom, thereby crippling both civil service operations and private businesses.
He further decried the devastating effect of the crisis on healthcare delivery, stressing that hospitals and health workers have been unable to function optimally due to the climate of fear.
Despite the grim situation, Hon. Shuwa commended Governor Mutfwang, describing him as a leader with “telescopic vision,” a “political giant,” and one who effectively plays the dual roles of father and mother of the state.
He noted that the four-day health council meeting (August 18–21) would help chart a new course for healthcare delivery in Plateau State, provided peace is restored.
The chairman concluded by praying for Governor Mutfwang’s success, stressing that the people of Riyom are ready to defend their land if given the backing, while urging government and security agencies not to abandon the council to the mercy of attackers.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, on Tuesday 19th August 2025, paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, following the death of his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda, who passed away at the age of 83 after a prolonged illness.
Arriving at Prof. Yilwatda’s Abuja residence, the Governor described Mama Lydia as a virtuous woman of deep faith, simplicity, and courage who nurtured her children in Godly values children who today are contributing positively to humanity.
“For us, the death of any mother on the Plateau is a loss to all of us,” Governor Mutfwang said.
“We take comfort in the fact that Mama lived a worthy life. She served the Lord alongside her husband and, even after his passing, remained steadfast in God’s service.
My prayer always is that we should be the ones to bury our parents, and not the other way round.”
The Governor further highlighted Mama Lydia’s resilience, kindness, and sacrifices, noting that her passing at a time when Prof. Yilwatda shoulders huge national responsibilities creates a painful void.
On behalf of his family, the Plateau State Government, and the entire people of the state, Governor Mutfwang extended his deepest sympathies to Prof. Yilwatda and his siblings, praying that God would strengthen and comfort them in this season of grief.
In his response, Prof. Yilwatda expressed profound gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for the condolence visit, describing it as a major source of comfort to him and his family.
He paid glowing tribute to his late mother, whom he described as a woman of resilience, faith, and compassion, who devoted her life to raising her seven children in the fear of God and instilling in them values that continue to shape their lives.
“Mama served the Lord faithfully and left behind a lasting legacy that will continue to shine brightly through her children,” the APC National Chairman said, adding that the family takes solace in her fulfilled life of service to God and humanity.
Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, was agog on Monday, August 18, 2025, as the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, FNADM, led a high-powered delegation of the denomination on an appreciation visit to Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
The visit, according to Rev. Akanji, was to register the Convention’s profound gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support of Baptist missions and institutions, especially in the education sector.
He recalled how Governor Mutfwang’s timely intervention had salvaged the Baptist School in Jos after sections of the institution were destroyed by a devastating rainstorm.
Tracing the historic footprints of the denomination, the President explained that the Baptist Church, which arrived in Nigeria in 1850, has for more than 170 years contributed significantly to the nation’s moral, spiritual, and educational development.
He cited legacy schools such as the Baptist Boys’ High School, Abeokuta, which produced some of Nigeria’s finest leaders, as proof of the denomination’s enduring impact.
“We are grateful that Governor Mutfwang shares our vision of preserving mission schools that have shaped generations through Godly Training,” Rev. Akanji declared.
He also pledged the Convention’s continued partnership with government in education and healthcare, stressing that the Baptist denomination would “work together and labour together until the mission of adding value to society is fulfilled.”
Rev. Akanji did not fail to acknowledge the Governor’s gesture in appointing one of their distinguished alumni, Mrs. Helen Chundusu, as a Permanent Secretary in his administration, describing it as a testament to Mutfwang’s inclusive leadership style.
In his response, Governor Mutfwang extolled the Baptist Church for its pioneering role in Nigeria’s growth, particularly in education and healthcare.
He described the denomination as one of the earliest missionary movements to plant roots in the country, whose impact has remained immeasurable.
“As a student of church history, I am deeply aware of the invaluable role of the Baptist movement in the body of Christ globally,” the Governor said.
“Not many people realize that the Baptist denomination was among the first to establish its presence in Nigeria.
While you may not boast the biggest structures, your missionary impact has spread far and wide.”
Recalling his fellowship with the Baptist Chapel during his days at the University of Jos, Governor Mutfwang further commended the establishment of institutions such as Bowen University, which he described as “one of Nigeria’s leading private universities ,not built for profit, but for service to humanity.”
The Governor assured the delegation that his administration would continue to advocate for the preservation of mission schools even at the federal level, emphasizing that “the church has been at the forefront of education in Nigeria, benefitting people of all faiths.
We must not allow the gates of these institutions to be shut.”
He concluded by promising sustained partnership with the Baptist Convention in raising young leaders of integrity and strengthening health systems in Plateau State.
“For us, the services you render go beyond Nigeria. They directly benefit Plateau State as well. Be assured that we will continue to work together and labour together until God’s purpose for establishing these institutions is fulfilled,” he assured.
The Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) has joined the Yilwada family in mourning the death of their beloved Matriarch, Mama Lydia Yilwada, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwada, who passed away on Sunday, August 17th, 2025, at the age of 83.
In a moving condolence message, the Association, through its Electoral Committee Chairman, Comrade Shabul Mazadu, described Mama Lydia as a woman of rare virtue, a devoted Christian, and an exemplary mother whose footprints of humility, kindness, and godliness remain indelible in the sands of time.
Comrade Mazadu, speaking on behalf of the entire members of PPA, noted that Mama Lydia was not only a blessing to her immediate family and the Ngas nation, but also to the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Plateau State, and Nigeria at large.
“Mama was a peaceful, loving, and caring woman who touched lives beyond her family circle.
Her memory will remain evergreen as a wife who stood by her husband in service to God, and as a mother who nurtured her children in the fear of the Lord,” the statement read.
The Association further encouraged Professor Nentawe and the Yilwada family to accept the loss as an act of God and to be comforted by the assurance of eternal life promised to the faithful.
Comrade Mazadu added that Mama’s passing was not just a personal loss to the family but a collective pain to the Plateau people and beneficiaries of Nentawe’s benevolence, compassion, and leadership ingenuity.
The statement concluded with prayers for divine comfort and strength for the family in this moment of grief :
“May the Almighty God grant the Yilwada family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and may Mama Lydia’s gentle soul find eternal rest with the Lord.”
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Plateau State Chapter, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
Family sources confirmed that Mama Lydia died in the early hours of Sunday, August 17th, 2025, at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), at the age of 83.
In its condolence message, IPAC described the death as a painful loss, not only to the Yilwatda family but also to Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
The council noted that Mama Lydia lived an exemplary life of humility, Christian devotion and women leadership, especially through her active role in the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN).
“Alongside her late husband, Reverend Toma Goshewe Yilwatda, Mama Lydia contributed immensely to the growth of the church across Borno, Yobe, Bauchi and Plateau States.
She was a source of wisdom and motherly counsel, whose prayers uplifted many,” the statement read.
The council further consoled Professor Yilwatda, urging him to find strength in the enduring legacy his late mother left behind, which is clearly reflected in her children and in the countless lives she impacted.
“On behalf of all political parties under the umbrella of IPAC Plateau, we join in mourning with Professor Yilwatda and his family.
We pray the Almighty God grants her soul eternal rest and comfort the bereaved family at this difficult time.”
Plateau State was thrown into mourning as news broke of the passing of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda.
Mama Lydia, aged 83, slept in the Lord after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy steeped in faith, courage, and selfless service.
In a heartfelt condolence message, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, joined thousands in grief, describing the departed matriarch as “a woman of uncommon strength, love, and sacrifice, whose life was defined by service to God and humanity.”
Governor Mutfwang recalled Mama Lydia’s steadfast devotion to the Christian faith, noting how she and her late husband faithfully labored in God’s vineyard, raising children, touching lives, and inspiring hope across communities.
He said her earthly sojourn was marked by compassion, wisdom, tolerance, and kindness, qualities that made her a beacon to all who encountered her.
He further observed that attaining the age of 83 was a rare blessing, sustained by divine grace, and urged the Yilwatda family to find strength in the enduring legacy Mama leaves behind.
“Though Mama’s passing has created a painful void, her exemplary life remains a fountain of comfort, and God’s promises remain unfailing,” the Governor consoled.
On behalf of his family, the Government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended his deepest sympathies to Prof. Nentawe, his siblings, and the entire Yilwatda clan, praying that God’s comfort and peace will abide with them in this season of grief.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has unleashed a fiery attack on Saturday’s by-elections, branding the exercise a sham riddled with violence, vote buying, and brazen manipulation allegedly orchestrated under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a blistering statement on Sunday, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, declared that the polls were nothing but “a dark day for democracy,” marred by intimidation of voters, open bribery, and collusion by institutions that should defend the sanctity of the ballot.
Despite its recent adoption by frontline opposition figures, the ADC failed to secure a single seat in the contests across 13 states and 16 constituencies.
But the party dismissed the results as a sham, insisting the outcome was “not a reflection of the opposition’s strength but of Nigeria’s collapsing electoral system.”
“When elections are marred by widespread violence, when ballots are brazenly exchanged for money, when opposition candidates are sidelined without explanation, and when the very institutions entrusted to protect democracy become complicit, then the vote of the ordinary Nigerian ceases to have meaning,” Abdullahi thundered.
From reports of ballot box snatching to the arrest of nearly 300 armed thugs on election day, the ADC painted a grim picture of the polls. In one state, a suspected vote buyer was allegedly caught with ₦25.9 million cash for inducements, while in another, election officials were implicated in bribery scandals.
The party also swiped at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the recurring failure of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), accusing the electoral umpire of lacking competence and sincerity.
“Nigerians deserve elections that command the implicit confidence of every citizen and the respect of the rest of the world.
INEC must not be allowed to turn excuses into a code of conduct,” the ADC warned.
The death of Mama Lydia Yilwada, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwada, has drawn heartfelt condolences from the Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum.
Mama Lydia, aged 83, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) after a brief ailment.
Professor Dakum, in his condolence message, described Mama’s passing as “an excruciatingly painful loss, especially as she departed at a time her prayers and motherly counsel were most needed.”
He noted that while death is inevitable and comes only by God’s will, it is most devastating when it robs families of mothers who nurtured them through life’s thick and thin.
He urged Professor Yilwada and his siblings to take solace in the Almighty God, stressing that Mama Lydia had gone to eternal rest in the bosom of the Lord after living a life of impact and service.
Eulogizing the late matriarch, Dakum highlighted her remarkable devotion to God and humanity.
He recalled how Mama Lydia, alongside her late husband, Reverend Toma Goshewe Yilwada, strengthened the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) across Borno, Yobe, Bauchi and Plateau States.
“Mama was peaceful, benevolent, virtuous, and a true mother who raised her children in the fear of God.
Her legacies are clearly reflected in the life and successes of her son, Nentawe ,from the university classrooms, to INEC, to ministerial service, and now as APC National Chairman, serving Nigeria with distinction,” Dakum declared.
While mourning deeply with the Yilwada family, Professor Dakum prayed for the repose of Mama’s soul and asked God to grant them the courage and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
History was made in Jos yesterday 16th August 2027 as Plateau Central Senatorial District rose in one voice to declare Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang worthy of a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The thunderous endorsement, which came during a high-powered meeting at Retnan Suites, Jos, was described as a landmark declaration of faith in Mutfwang’s people-centered, transformational leadership that has touched lives in both urban and rural Plateau.
Chairman of PDP Central Zone, Hon. Monday Daspan, ignited the atmosphere when he declared that Governor Mutfwang has “raised the bar of governance in Plateau State,” earning the admiration and loyalty of the people.
In his words, “Within two years, Governor Mutfwang has boldly repositioned Plateau on the path of sustainable growth.
He is truly God’s gift to Plateau, sent to recover and rebuild the state in line with the dreams of our founding fathers.”
Riding on this fiery declaration, Hon. Raymond Deshi, former Kanke LGA Chairman, moved a motion for Mutfwang’s endorsement, stressing that the governor has restored the people’s hope in governance.
The motion was promptly seconded by Hon. Yakubu Ibn Salami, former PDP PRO, who assured that under Mutfwang, “Plateau will rise again and shine even brighter.”
Adding more weight to the endorsement, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters, Rt. Hon. Istifanus Mwansat, highlighted visible achievements in health, agriculture, transportation, education, and human capital development, noting that only a second term can consolidate these gains.
Chief of Staff, Bldr. Jeremiah Satmak, echoed the sentiment, insisting that Mutfwang’s mandate must be renewed to guarantee deeper rural development.
“The majority of Plateau people live in rural areas; extending Mutfwang’s leadership will ensure development truly reaches them,” he said.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Philemon Daffi, was even more emphatic, applauding the governor’s courage in securing communities against aggressors. He called on citizens to rally behind Mutfwang’s decisive leadership, stressing that “a peaceful and progressive Plateau is possible if we sustain this momentum.”
Elder Emmanuel Mangni and Mrs. Lububu Shemu, speaking for Elders and Women respectively, showered encomiums on the governor for delivering visible development across Plateau. They urged the party to unite firmly behind him, describing his style as a blessing to peace and stability.
Mutfwang : “I Will Remain Fair, Just and Empathetic”
In an emotional response, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang thanked Plateau Central for the resounding confidence vote.
He pledged to deepen inclusive governance anchored on fairness, justice, and empathy, while urging party leaders to uphold internal democracy and carry everyone along.
By the close of the meeting, which had in attendance all five LGA chairmen of Plateau Central, elders, women, youth leaders, and party stalwarts, a unanimous resolution was passed :
To return the “People’s Governor”, Caleb Mutfwang ,to Government House, Rayfield, come 2027.
The Emir of Wase and Chairman of the Plateau State chapter of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, has issued a stern warning to Fulani herdsmen in Plateau State, insisting that they must stop the destruction of farmlands belonging to natives if they truly want to live in peace with host communities.
The royal father gave the charge during a one-day sensitization programme on peace and peaceful coexistence held at the Sharna Palace in Jos.
According to the Emir, most of the recurring crises in Plateau communities are directly linked to herders deliberately grazing cattle on cultivated farms, thereby destroying crops and provoking clashes with natives.
Visibly disturbed, the Emir,himself a Fulani,expressed deep regret, noting that he often feels ashamed whenever crimes such as farm destruction, cattle rustling or violent attacks are traced back to his kinsmen.
He lamented that such reckless acts not only destroy community trust but also paint the Fulani tribe and the Islamic faith in a bad light.
“Our people must stop destroying farmlands. It is unacceptable, it is shameful, and it does not represent who we are. These actions fuel hatred, create enmity, and invite violence. If you want peace, respect farmlands and respect the rights of others,” the Emir cautioned.
While acknowledging that not every crime in the state is committed by Fulani herders and that some allegations are exaggerated, the monarch nonetheless insisted that the destruction of farm crops remains a major trigger of unrest.
He urged herders to embrace discipline and peaceful coexistence, reminding them that everyone will be held accountable for their actions on the Day of Judgment.
The sensitization programme brought together religious leaders, community representatives, and Fulani associations, all echoing the call for dialogue, tolerance, and an end to the reckless encroachment on farmlands.
With farming being the lifeblood of Plateau natives, the Emir stressed that the respect of farmland boundaries by herders is the surest path to peace in the state.
By, giwa alex, Jos
The Emir of Wase and Chairman of the Plateau State chapter of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, has issued a stern warning to Fulani herdsmen in Plateau State, insisting that they must stop the destruction of farmlands belonging to natives if they truly want to live in peace with host communities.
The royal father gave the charge during a one-day sensitization programme on peace and peaceful coexistence held at the Sharna Palace in Jos.
According to the Emir, most of the recurring crises in Plateau communities are directly linked to herders deliberately grazing cattle on cultivated farms, thereby destroying crops and provoking clashes with natives.
Visibly disturbed, the Emir,himself a Fulani,expressed deep regret, noting that he often feels ashamed whenever crimes such as farm destruction, cattle rustling or violent attacks are traced back to his kinsmen.
He lamented that such reckless acts not only destroy community trust but also paint the Fulani tribe and the Islamic faith in a bad light.
“Our people must stop destroying farmlands. It is unacceptable, it is shameful, and it does not represent who we are. These actions fuel hatred, create enmity, and invite violence. If you want peace, respect farmlands and respect the rights of others,” the Emir cautioned.
While acknowledging that not every crime in the state is committed by Fulani herders and that some allegations are exaggerated, the monarch nonetheless insisted that the destruction of farm crops remains a major trigger of unrest.
He urged herders to embrace discipline and peaceful coexistence, reminding them that everyone will be held accountable for their actions on the Day of Judgment.
The sensitization programme brought together religious leaders, community representatives, and Fulani associations, all echoing the call for dialogue, tolerance, and an end to the reckless encroachment on farmlands.
With farming being the lifeblood of Plateau natives, the Emir stressed that the respect of farmland boundaries by herders is the surest path to peace in the state.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has ignited a fresh call for Christians to rediscover their divine purpose, insisting that every human life is created to fulfill God’s eternal plan.
The Governor gave this charge on Saturday, 16th August 2025, during the one-year memorial service and book launch in honour of the late Reverend Emmanuel Kanos, founder of The Parliament Church, held at the church auditorium near Lamingo Roundabout, Jos.
Governor Mutfwang who described himself as a “Child of Grace and Destiny”,said the testimonies of Rev. Kanos’ life continue to inspire, stressing that no journey in life has meaning unless interrupted by Christ.
“No life is an accident. Every life was meant to fulfill destiny. But let me say it again; any man whose journey in life is not interrupted by Jesus is going nowhere.
You must have a story of divine interruption if you are to find meaning and purpose in life,” the Governor declared, drawing loud applause from the congregation.
The service climaxed with the unveiling of the book “Destiny : A Fresh Biblical Perspective,” written in memory of the late cleric.
Governor Mutfwang pledged government support for its wide circulation, noting that it will guide many to discover God’s unique plan for their lives.
He further praised Reverend Mrs. Kanos, the family, and the Parliament Church congregation for preserving the vision of the late preacher, praying that God’s purpose for the ministry would be fully realized.
In her book review, Professor Funmi Para-Mallam described the work as “a life-changing resource,”
Stressing destiny is not determined by human interpretation but firmly anchored in God’s eternal will.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Friday made a historic move in the state’s education sector with the official launch of the Nigeria Learning Passport (NLP) — a digital learning platform set to transform access to quality education across the state.
The unveiling ceremony, staged at the Twin Theater, Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, brought together government officials, development partners, educators, and community stakeholders, in what many described as the dawn of a new era for Plateau’s education system.
In his address, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in schools, stressing that both urban and rural children must benefit.
“I thank God for this opportunity to leapfrog from where we are in public sector education to where we need to be. My gratitude goes to UNICEF, TECNO Mobile, Airtel, and other partners for deepening access to digital literacy, which is now an absolute necessity in today’s world,” he declared.
The Governor charged the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and other stakeholders to roll out the project “as far and as fast as possible.”
He directed the Ministry of Education to design a strategic plan for full digital integration in schools within two to three years.
Citing the successful pilot at GSS Kuru, Mutfwang assured Plateau communities of statewide replication.
He further addressed the shortage of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres, disclosing that discussions were underway with the Federal Ministry of Communications and telecom giants Airtel, MTN, and Etisalat to expand broadband through fibre optic installations.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Nazhat Rafique, UNICEF Bauchi Chief Field Officer, Mr. Abdulrahaman Ibrahim Ado said the NLP would drastically reduce the number of out-of-school children while improving learning outcomes.
“With over 2 million children in Plateau State now able to access the platform both online and offline, the NLP has come to stay,” he noted.
Plateau Commissioner for Education, Dr. Kachollom Gang, insisted that technology must become a permanent standard in Plateau schools. SUBEB Chairman, Mr. Samuel Amuna, called for more budgetary commitment to education in line with UNESCO’s 26% benchmark.
Leaders of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) and the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) equally pledged support to ensure the success of the programme.
The audience was treated to cultural displays by the Obasanjo Model School Hwolshe / Plateau State Arts and Culture Troupe, before a panel discussion on “Digital Learning: An Enabler for Better Access to Quality Education.”
The climax of the event came with the symbolic presentation of routers to 50 schools, officially kicking off the rollout of the Nigeria Learning Passport in Plateau State.
Bukuru town in Jos South, Plateau State, on Friday witnessed a landmark moment as the Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) returned to its roots, with the National Chairman, Sheikh Dr. Abdullahi Bala Lau, leading Jumma’at prayers at the world’s first Izala mosque“Masallacin Filin Sarki” newly rebuilt to its historic glory.
The grand prayer drew a constellation of dignitaries, including the Emir of Wase, HRH Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, who doubles as the Plateau JNI Chairman; the host, Muhammad Nasiru, Sarkin Bukuru; Plateau Commissioner of Commerce and Industry, Hon. Mohammed Salihu Nyalum; Ma’ajin Kano, Alh. Jafaru Muhammad Shanono (OON); ES Bunun Bukur, and several eminent Izala scholars and leaders from across Nigeria.
Delivering a charged sermon, Sheikh Bala Lau reminded worshippers that a mosque belongs only to Allah.
He described the mosque as a sacred sanctuary where believers gather to honor their Lord, seek divine guidance, and strengthen their faith.
“The mosque is a holy place where Allah’s presence is felt. It is not owned by any man but by Allah alone,” he declared.
He stressed the importance of revitalizing the historic Bukuru mosque, recalling how it once stood as the sole place of worship for Izala, which has now grown phenomenally to over 10,000 Friday mosques and 50,000 daily prayer mosques nationwide.
In a deeply emotional moment, Sheikh Bala Lau paid glowing tribute to Izala’s pioneers—Alhaji Musa Mai Gandu and Sheikh Ismaila Idris Bin Zakariya—praying Allah’s mercy and forgiveness upon them.
He further applauded Architect Saleh for masterfully rebuilding the mosque and hailed Sarkin Bukuru, Muhammad Nasiru, for his unflinching support.
The Izala leader recounted the prophetic story of a humble woman who quietly kept the mosque clean until her passing, unknown even to the Prophet.
Upon learning of her death, the Prophet prayed at her grave, and Allah granted her paradise an eternal lesson that even the smallest service to Allah’s house carries immeasurable reward.
Bala Lau urged Muslims to uphold the sanctity and cleanliness of mosques, promising divine reward for those who dedicate themselves to Allah’s house.
The event also featured spirited sermons from notable scholars including Sheikh Kabiru Gombe, Nasiru Gombe, Imam Zakari Adamu Nabardo, Ustaz Alhassan Jingir, Sadik Yusuf Mista Ali, Sheikh Abubakar Musa Azi, and Secretary A. Ismail, while the Plateau State JIBWIS Chairman, Sheikh Usman Ibni Khalid, traced the historic origins of the Bukuru mosque.
Hosts & Royal Call for Unity In his remarks, Sarkin Bukuru, Muhammad Nasiru, expressed gratitude to all guests and prayed for unity, wisdom, and blessings upon Bukuru, Plateau, and Nigeria.
Capping the event, the Emir of Wase, HRH Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, delivered a stirring call for unity, solidarity, and cooperation within the Muslim Ummah, stressing that only a united community can achieve resilience, harmony, and lasting progress.
The Bukuru Izala group, ably led by Umar Idris Umar (Mai Goro), and the Local Organizing Committee chaired by Baba Bala Mai Taya, were commended for their dedication in ensuring the success of the historic homecoming.
……. Punch Report Massive Grassroots Push To End Voter Apathy Before Polls.
By,giwa alex, Jos
In what observers are already calling the boldest civic mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, Punch reports that the Obidient Movement, ardent supporters of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has declared an all-out nationwide campaign to arm Nigerians with their Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs).
Unveiled Thursday under the rallying cry “A New Nigeria is Possible : Get Your PVC”, the operation is designed to penetrate every street, village, and city, with a special focus on first-time voters and citizens yet to register.
In a statement from its communication directorate, the movement thundered against voter apathy, branding it a “democratic killer” that has crippled past elections.
“The Obidient Movement will go the whole distance to ensure every Nigerian of voting age holds a PVC to shape the 2027 elections,” the group vowed.
This is not just a Peter Obi campaign, organisers insist , it is a national call-to-arms for citizens to seize control of their democracy and decide the future through the ballot box.
The strategy includes fiery town hall engagements, aggressive door-to-door outreach, and a digital media blitz aimed at reaching millions both in bustling cities and remote hamlets.
Partnerships with civil society groups, traditional rulers, and youth coalitions are already in motion to supercharge the push.
According to Punch, the movement believes an informed, determined electorate is Nigeria’s strongest weapon for good governance, stressing that the 2027 polls present a once-in-a-generation chance to demand accountability.
“A New Nigeria is Possible if the people are united, relentless, and ready to fight for their future through the power of the PVC,” the statement roared.
Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has lavished praise on the Plateau State House of Assembly for its bold and uncompromising resistance to the proposed relocation of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Headquarters from Jos.
Dakum described the Assembly’s position as noble, patriotic, and worthy of national emulation, stressing that such unity and firmness could have prevented Plateau from losing the Zonal Headquarters of other Federal Government agencies to rival states in the past.
According to Dakum, there is no justifiable reason for moving ITF’s headquarters from Plateau.
He said the state offers every requirement for the agency’s smooth operation favourable climate, warm hospitality, security, and a central location that ensures proximity to all federation states.
He reminded Nigerians that the ITF was founded in Jos by General Yakubu Gowon (rtd) under Decree No. 47 of 1971.
He argued that in respect for the elder statesman’s legacy, the headquarters should remain on Plateau soil.
Dakum highlighted the outstanding contributions of Plateau-born Director-Generals to the growth of ITF :
Prof. Longmas Sambo Wapmuk Initiated the 2011 ITF Amendment Act, expanding the agency’s scope to cover both public and private sectors, boosting revenue and project execution.
He also established the Model Skill Training Centre in Abuja, upgraded staff welfare from HAPSS to CONTISS, and initiated major infrastructure developments.
Sir Joseph Ari (KSM, KSS) Oversaw the first made-in-Nigeria mobile phone production, built and equipped an Introductory Technology Laboratory in Jos, renovated ITF headquarters, completed area offices in Lagos Island, Port Harcourt, Katsina, and Gusau, procured mobile training vans, and championed capacity building nationwide.
Dakum stressed that Plateau has more than earned the right to retain ITF, having provided the agency with unwavering hospitality, infrastructural support, and a conducive environment for growth.
He warned that the proposed relocation is not only unfair but an affront to the state’s contributions and the legacy of Gen. Gowon.
The IHVN boss called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang, federal lawmakers from Plateau, elder statesmen, stakeholders, and citizens to stand solidly behind the House of Assembly in this fight.
He reserved special praise for Speaker Rt. Hon. Naanlong Gapyil Daniel and his colleagues, declaring :
“Well done, and more grease to your elbows for defending Plateau’s interest with courage and dignity.”
……Orders Status Quo, Set To Meet Aggrieved Members Next Week For Peace Deal
By,giwa alex, Jos
The leadership storm rocking the Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) reached a turning point as the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT), Chief Amos Yaduksu Gizo, stepped in with decisive authority — dissolving the election earlier conducted under Daniel Bok’s watch, as well as all other planned elections in the association.
Chief Gizo’s order, which swept across both factions of the PPA like a political earthquake, came with a strong appeal for members to maintain the status quo pending his arrival next week to meet with all aggrieved parties for a comprehensive reconciliation.
The BOT Chairman’s directive was relayed to journalists by the PPA Electoral Committee Chairman, Mr. Shabul Mazadu, after a brief but decisive telephone conversation with Chief Gizo.
Mazadu disclosed that the discussion followed a meeting with the Director of Press to the Plateau State Governor, Dr. Gyang Bere, who advised all parties to respect the BOT Chairman’s counsel as the roadmap to lasting peace in the association.
“In my discussion with Chief Gizo, I briefed him on the existence of the Independent Publishers Association, the main PPA led by Chief Nanyah Daman, and the setting up of an electoral committee to conduct a substantive election,” Mazadu said.
“But he made it clear that all such activities be suspended. He emphasized that there is no need to rush into any election until he meets all publishers in Plateau next week.”
Gizo, who confirmed he had also spoken to Daniel Bok, stressed that unity among publishers is dear to him and that he would not recognize any election past or present nor any electoral committee until the forthcoming peace meeting.
In reaction, Mazadu described obedience to elders as “sacrosanct,” adding that no successful election can hold without the BOT Chairman’s approval.
He revealed that he immediately contacted former PPA Chairman, Chief Nanyah Daman, who welcomed the dissolution and pledged support for the reconciliation effort.
“Both myself and Chief Daman want one united PPA, which is why we have agreed to merge our two groups into one,” Mazadu confirmed.
Other members of the Electoral Committee, Comr. Nanzing Zingkong and Mr. Philip Zhatau, also threw their weight behind the BOT Chairman’s move, saying unity is the common goal.
All electoral activities have now been suspended, with the association awaiting Chief Gizo’s peace mission next week.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday fired the first major shot in its 2027 electoral battle plan with the inauguration of a high-powered National Convention Zoning Committee chaired by Bayelsa State Governor, Sen. Douye Diri, and Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, as Secretary.
The political bombshell was dropped at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja where Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum, charged the newly constituted committee to “lay the bricks for a leadership that Nigerians can trust, respect, and vote for.”
In a fiery address, Damagum declared the committee “the conscience and engine room of the party”, tasked with producing a zoning formula that will deliver not just electoral victory but restore Nigeria’s democratic soul.
“The decisions you take will shape our ability to serve Nigerians, win elections, and defend the values we stand for.
We need leaders with integrity, courage, and creativity people who can inspire hope and mobilize effectively,” he charged.
He warned that the zoning process must be fair, equitable, and strategically balance loyalty with competence to cement party unity and position the PDP for a 2027 comeback.
Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Sen. Bala Mohammed, threw the weight of all PDP governors behind the committee, pledging “unflinching support to identify leaders who can deliver electoral success.”
Former Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Inna Ciroma, hammered on inclusiveness, fairness, and collective resolve to rescue Nigeria from what she termed “a dangerous decline.”
Senate Minority Leader, Sen. Abba Moro, speaking for the PDP National Assembly Caucus, vowed legislative support to ensure the emergence of a leadership team that can “restore hope to millions of Nigerians.”
Taking the microphone, Gov. Douye Diri thanked the party for the trust reposed in him and promised an open, transparent, and inclusive process that will rebuild the PDP into a formidable force ahead of 2027.
Plateau State’s media space erupted in jubilation this week as one of its finest, Tongna’an Dada Bawa, clinched the coveted position of National Auditor of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), marking a new chapter in the state’s history of journalistic excellence.
Bawa’s victory was sealed on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, during a keenly contested bye-election held in Kano State at the NUJ National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
Her win instantly became a rallying point for pride across Plateau, drawing praise from the highest office in the state.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in a congratulatory message issued Thursday by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, described her emergence as “a proud milestone and a deserved reward for years of selfless service to the profession.”
The Governor recalled Bawa’s remarkable tenure as a two-term Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Plateau State Chapter, and as Zonal Secretary of NAWOJ.
He charged her to uphold the Plateau ideals of justice, fairness, equity, and compassion while deploying her new position to promote democracy, good governance, and people-focused policies nationwide.
“On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, I wish Tongna’an Bawa strength, wisdom, and sound health to deliver with excellence,” the Governor declared.
The NUJ Plateau State Council was equally effusive in its celebration, calling Bawa’s election a “clear demonstration of trust and confidence in Plateau journalism” by the Union’s national leadership led by President Alhassan Yahya.
In a joint statement signed by Chairman Comrade Ayuku Pwaspo and Assistant Secretary Timothy Tyem, the Council hailed Bawa’s “unflinching commitment to union activities,” charging her to approach the role with humility, discipline, and professionalism.
“We assure the National Auditor of our full support and collaboration to ensure a tenure that will move NUJ to greater heights,” the statement read.
In a thunderous legal blow to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the immediate reinstatement of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) into the nationwide by-elections scheduled for August 16, 2025.
The judgment, delivered Thursday, August 14, 2025, is being hailed as a political resurrection for SDP candidates sidelined by protracted internal disputes and administrative hurdles.
SDP’s National Legal Adviser, Chief Solsuema Osaro, described the ruling as “a landmark victory for justice, democracy, and the Nigerian voter”.
He attributed the triumph to the unflinching leadership of National Chairman Comrade Adamu Abubarkar Modibbo, the youthful and visionary National Secretary Dr. Ekpenyong Ambo, and the dogged National Working Committee (NWC), whose legal and strategic fight has paid off.
With the court’s gavel clearing the path, SDP’s political engine is back on full throttle, as candidates nationwide gear up for a fierce electoral contest that analysts say could change the balance of power in several constituencies.
, Hon. Abubakar Dogara has officially handed over the chairmanship of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Plateau State to Hon. Panshak John Verengkat, urging members to give the new leader maximum support.
The handover ceremony, held at the party’s state secretariat along Murtala Mohammed Way, Jos, was a low-key but significant event attended by party executives, stakeholders, and loyalists.
In his farewell remarks, Hon. Dogara, now the Deputy Chairman of SDP in the North commended Verengkat for his unwavering commitment to the party during his tenure as Deputy Chairman.
“I enjoyed working with him and never kept the secrets of running this party away from him.
I call on all members to work with him and the new executive so our aims and objectives will not be defeated,” Dogara said.
Taking over the mantle of leadership, Hon. Panshak John Verengkat wasted no time in rallying citizens of Plateau State, especially those yearning for genuine governance, to join the SDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Describing the party as “the only credible alternative” to the ruling and self-acclaimed mega parties, Verengkat said the SDP was ready to challenge political deception with people-driven policies.
“We are calling on Plateau citizens to come out en masse and register with the SDP.
We will soon commence a membership drive across all wards and polling units. The time to prepare for 2027 is now,” he declared.
The ceremony closed with solidarity pledges from party faithful, who vowed to stand by the new leadership as the SDP begins its political mobilization across the state.
With the handover complete, Plateau’s SDP has officially entered a new chapter — and the race toward 2027 has begun in earnest
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has extended warm felicitations to Hon. Pam Bot-Mang on his appointment by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Federal Commissioner representing Plateau State at the Federal Character Commission, Abuja.
In a congratulatory message, Governor Mutfwang described Hon. Pam Bot-Mang as a worthy son of Plateau State whose appointment is both well-deserved and a testament to his track record of dedication and service.
The Governor expressed confidence that Hon. Bot-Mang will bring honour to the state, given his wealth of experience and exceptional performance in both the public and private sectors.
Governor Mutfwang also conveyed his gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing and appointing a Plateau son to such a strategic national role. He urged Hon. Bot-Mang to uphold and exemplify the enduring Plateau values of justice, fairness, empathy, and tolerance in the discharge of his duties.
On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, the Governor warmly congratulated Hon. Pam Bot-Mang, the Chairman of the Commission, and all other Federal Commissioners from across the country.
He prayed for God’s wisdom, strength, and good health for them as they carry out their constitutional responsibilities to the glory of God and for the benefit of humanity.
Plateau State’s ruling party family has reacted strongly to what it calls a “malign and senseless attack” targeted at Distinguished Senator Timothy Adudu, North-Central representative at the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
The Plateau APC Justice Vanguard, in a strongly worded statement, described the attack as an orchestrated move by political actors threatened by Adudu’s rising profile and tangible achievements a campaign, they say, designed to discredit him for selfish advantage.
The controversy began when a faceless group published a social media article alleging that Senator Adudu is incompetent, nonchalant, and uncommitted to promoting the All Progressives Congress (APC), even threatening to report him to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The piece further accused Adudu of “working in isolation” without involving the APC State Executive Council.
The Justice Vanguard swiftly countered these claims with hard evidence. Citing the 19th February 2025 statement by APC State Publicity Secretary, Comrade Shittu Bamaiyi, the group noted that APC local government Chairmen in Plateau State had openly praised legislators and political appointees, including Senator Adudu, for their significant grassroots contributions.
Bamaiyi’s statement highlighted how the combined efforts of lawmakers and notable appointees like Adudu and Professor Garba Sharubutu had boosted the party’s image by delivering projects such as : Schools Clinics Boreholes Road construction Rural electrification
“Senator Adudu has gone a long way in supporting the APC at the grassroots.
This is not the mark of a dormant or isolated political figure,” the Vanguard stressed.
Beyond party work, the Justice Vanguard showcased Senator Adudu’s impressive record at FERMA.
Jos–Akwanga Road Rehabilitation (125.8km): Once a motorist’s nightmare, the road is significantly improved, reducing travel time and restoring safety.
2025 Budget Captures More Roads: Several key routes in Plateau and across the North-Central zone are awaiting fund releases for repairs, including :
Panyam–Shendam via Kerang and Abwor Dis
Panyam–Shendam via Pankshin, Kanke, and Langtang North
“These achievements are just the tip of the iceberg,” the group insisted, pointing to further projects in the pipeline.
The Justice Vanguard condemned the attacks as “unholy, unwholesome and diabolical,” driven by jealousy, tribal sentiment, and political rivalry.
“No amount of blackmail can erase Senator Adudu’s contributions. His performance speaks louder than any concocted lies,” they declared.
The statement also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing many Plateau citizens into strategic positions, commended party leader Senator Simon Lalong, and applauded APC State Chairman Hon. Rufus Bature for his leadership.
Special congratulations were extended to APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwada, on his recent elevation, with prayers for wisdom to lead the party to victory in 2027.
Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) has made a decisive move to stabilize its electoral process and silence political rumour mills by appointing Mr. Shabul Mazadu, Publisher of The Beacon Newspaper, as Chairman of its Electoral Committee (ELCOM).
The development followed an emergency congress meeting on Tuesday, 12th August 2025, convened after the sudden resignation of Prince Valentine Adese from both the Association and the Electoral Committee.
Prince Adese’s resignation letter was formally presented to the congress, alongside a notice of probable withdrawal from Walbe Orgak, Publisher of Grassroots Newspaper.
Both publishers explained that their dual membership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the PPA had become untenable, as NUJ leadership directed them to choose one body. After careful consideration, they opted for the NUJ.
The PPA, while accepting their decision, reaffirmed its cordial ties with the NUJ. “We are still one family, committed to the ideals, growth, and development of journalism in Plateau State and beyond,” the Association stated.
The congress’s unanimous nomination of Mazadu as ELCOM Chairman has, in the words of several members, “finally put to rest” widespread speculation that he was angling to retain the position of PPA Chairman.
By accepting the electoral role, Mazadu made it clear that his focus is now squarely on delivering a poll that will be transparent, credible, and widely accepted by all members.
Addressing the congress, Mazadu promised that no friendship, family tie, or personal interest would influence his conduct.
“As far as my leadership of PPA ELCOM is concerned, there is no family, no friends, no associates — only justice. Nobody is more PPA than the other,” he declared.
He assured aspirants that the playing field will be level and urged them to win on merit.
It was a day of inspiration, energy, and renewed hope for the next generation as Plateau State joined the rest of the world to mark the 2025 International Youth Day with a bold commitment to youth empowerment and leadership inclusion.
The colourful celebration, hosted at the prestigious Crispan Hotel, Jos, brought together hundreds of young men and women from all 17 local government areas of the state.
The event, jointly organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Plateau State Youth Council, focused on equipping youths with the skills, opportunities, and leadership space needed to drive the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs and even exceed them.
From the opening sessions, it was clear this was more than a ceremonial gathering.
Panels and keynote speeches rang with practical solutions from digital skills training to agricultural empowerment programmes all aimed at positioning Plateau youths as key players in governance, economic growth, and community Peace building.
In his goodwill address, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ashoms, underscored Governor Mutfwang’s unwavering trust in the capacity of Plateau’s young people.
“Our governor has placed a high premium on our youths, recognizing their critical role in development and the peace process,” Ashoms declared.
“Plateau youths are dogged, brilliant, and resilient. They have remained instrumental stakeholders in the state’s stability and growth.”
The commissioner also unveiled a forward-looking plan to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) training into youth empowerment programmes.
“We want to expose our youths to new ideas and strategies that can boost their businesses, improve interpersonal skills, and open up new opportunities,” he added.
Governor’s Adviser Unveils Back-to-Farm Expansion the speeches inspired hope, the statistics unveiled by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Development, Hon. Hitler Joshua Pwajok, gave it teeth.
He revealed that the government’s Back-to-Farm initiative had already cultivated over 1,000 hectares this year, with plans to scale up to 2,500 hectares in 2026 and 3,500 hectares by 2027.
The ambitious agricultural scheme, he said, would empower 15,000–20,000 youths through modern farming, mechanization, and business training.
60% Leadership Space Now Occupied by Youths Pwajok further noted that the Mutfwang-led administration had fulfilled its campaign promise to give young people a strong voice in governance.
“Today, about 60% of appointments and elective positions in ministries, agencies, parastatals, and other sectors are occupied by young people,” he announced.
“This is a government that values and trusts its youths as critical partners in Plateau’s development journey.”
The Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) on Tuesday, 12th August 2025, entered a new phase of leadership as Comrade Shabul Mazadu emerged Chairman of the Electoral Committee (ELCOM) following the sudden resignation of former Chairman Valentine Adese.
Adese’s exit came amid mounting pressure from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) over issues of dual membership, with the mother union insisting on upholding professional ethics and its six-week deadline for conducting a transparent, credible, and unbiased election into all vacant positions of the association.
In an emergency meeting convened to address the leadership vacuum, members of the PPA unanimously appointed Comrade Shabul to take the helm of the electoral process.
Delivering his acceptance speech, Shabul expressed deep appreciation for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to deliver a constitutionally guided election that would usher in a new, visionary executive capable of repositioning the association for greater service to Plateau’s media landscape.
“I will give my utmost to ensure we conduct elections that restore integrity, unity, and professionalism to PPA,” Shabul assured.
The new ELCOM Chairman used the occasion to set the record straight on recent speculations, stressing that the PPA is not on a collision course with the NUJ, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor (DOPPA), Dr. Gyang Bere, Hon. Timothy Golu, or Daniel Bok.
“We are not at war with anyone. Those pushing such narratives are mischief-makers trying to divide the media community.
The PPA is committed to collaboration, not confrontation,” he declared.
Shabul further called on the NUJ to see the Publishers Association as a partner in progress, united in the mission to support the government’s developmental goals and promote Plateau State’s image.
He also promised inclusive membership and urged stakeholders, partners, and well-meaning individuals to support the association’s efforts in delivering credible elections.
The Waziri Mushere, Ambassador Chief Yohana Yilpwan Margif, has delivered a blistering reply to an “unfounded and malicious” publication by an obscure group, “Vanguard for the Voice of Reasoning”, which accused him of unfairly faulting Governor Caleb Mutfwang over the displacement of his people.
Margif, speaking with the urgency of a man whose land bleeds, said the accusations were a shameless diversion from the grim truth that is unfolding daily in Mushere Chiefdom.
According to him, eight communities, Hokk, Kadim, Nawula, Njemut, Dulu, Nina, Margif, and Mbor have been violently attacked and their residents forced to flee by heavily armed Fulani bandits.
He stressed that as Chief Security Officer of Plateau State, the Governor has a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property, yet the people of Mushere are left in despair while invaders graze freely on their ancestral land.
“I will not abandon my people. Our homes now lie in ruins, our children cry themselves to sleep in fear, and our heritage is slipping away. I will not be silenced,” Margif declared.
Margif urged the public and the international community to ignore the baseless claims from faceless voices and focus instead on the real humanitarian crisis threatening the survival of the Mushere people.
“This is not politics, this is about life and death. I will keep speaking, keep fighting, and keep demanding justice until every displaced family returns to their home,” the Waziri vowed.
The Federal Population Commission , Plateau State, and the State Government joined forces to mark the 2025 World Population Day at Odilins Event Centre, Nunku Street, Jos.
With the global commemoration held on August 11, Plateau’s edition came a day later but with a sharper local focus anchored on the theme : “Empowering Young People to Create the Families They Want in a Fair and Hopeful World.”
Welcoming dignitaries, the Federal Commissioner representing Plateau State at NPC declared that Nigeria’s youthful population is not a burden but “a powerful opportunity” to drive national transformation.
According to him, over 130 million Nigerians are under 30, with youth aged 15–29 constituting nearly 64.4 million people — a demographic advantage few nations can boast of.
“These are not just statistics; they are our students, workers, and leaders-in-waiting. If we place their needs, voices, and aspirations at the center of our policies, Nigeria will thrive,” he said.
He contrasted Nigeria’s position with parts of the world facing population collapse due to low fertility rates and aging citizens, insisting that Nigeria’s challenge is to harness its youthful energy for innovation, productivity, and inclusive growth.
– Barriers to Youth Aspirations Citing the 2025 State of World Population Report, the Commissioner explained that many young people globally are not having large families because of economic instability, unemployment, poor access to health services, and lack of affordable housing not by choice but by circumstance.
He stressed that empowering youths is not charity, but a sustainable development strategy requiring investment in education, skills, jobs, reproductive health, and active youth participation in governance.
Mutfwang’s Promise Governor Caleb Mutfwang, in his remarks, praised the NPC for producing accurate data that would enable Plateau to plan effectively for jobs, skills training, and youth programs.
“Our administration recognizes the critical role of young people in building the Plateau of our dreams. That is why we deliberately involve youths in decision-making,” Mutfwang said.
The Governor assured that no Plateau youth will be sidelined in government programs under his watch, promising continuous inclusion in employment, empowerment, and capacity-building initiatives.
The commemoration closed with a united call from the Commissioner and the Governor for stronger collaboration between government, civil society, development partners, and the private sector.
The message was clear : whether in Lagos or Lafia, Kano or Calabar, every young Nigerian should have the opportunity to build the family they dream of in health, dignity, and hope.
On behalf of the National APC Christian Leadership Forum of Nigeria, Plateau State Chapter, it is my honor to extend our warmest congratulations to you on your appointment as Commissioner of the Federal Character Commission from Plateau State.
This distinguished appointment is a remarkable achievement, reflecting your exceptional leadership, integrity, and commitment to public service.
We are delighted that Plateau State’s rich talent and dedication are being represented at the national level through your appointment. Your expertise and passion for fairness and equity will undoubtedly make a significant impact in promoting national development and ensuring that the principles of federal character are upheld.
As a respected leader and a pillar in our community, your appointment is a source of pride not only for Plateau State but also for our organization. We have no doubt that your tenure will be marked by wisdom, diligence, and a steadfast commitment to the values of justice and equality.
We pray that God blesses you with wisdom, strength, and guidance as you embark on this new responsibility. May your service be impactful, and may you continue to be a shining example of leadership and integrity.
Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved appointment. We look forward to witnessing the positive change your leadership will bring.
Congratulations!”
Signed:
Rev. Sabo I. Goyol
Plateau State Coordinator,
National APC Christian Leadership Forum of Nigeria.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has joined numerous well-wishers and associates in celebrating the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, on the joyous occasion of his birthday.
In a congratulatory message, Governor Mutfwang described Rt. Hon. Naanlong as a vibrant and refined young leader whose remarkable record of selfless service has positively impacted many lives.
He urged the Speaker to continue upholding the enduring values of justice, fairness, and compassion, virtues that, according to him, reflect the true spirit of the Plateau people.
Governor Mutfwang commended Naanlong’s steadfast dedication to public service, good governance, and his unwavering commitment to peace and unity in Plateau State.
He encouraged him to champion people-oriented legislation that addresses the needs and aspirations of the citizens.
The Governor further acknowledged the Speaker’s tireless efforts in building bridges of understanding, fostering peace, and promoting inclusive, people centered leadership that transcends political and ethnic divides, a true embodiment of Plateau’s resilience and brotherhood.
On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang congratulated Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil and prayed for renewed strength, divine wisdom, and abundant health as he continues the noble task of contributing to the rebuilding of a new Plateau state.
Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, IHVN, Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has complimented the Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Gapyil Daniel , on the occasion of his birthday today, 10th August, 2025.
Dakum commended him for his contributions to the growth and stability of democracy in the state being a three timer in the legislature, and someone who played key roles in the House and has endeavored to empower his constituents.
The former Commissioner of Information and Health, also lauded the Speaker for the efforts he deployed in tackling some pressing issues in the state so far despite clinching the speakership newly; adding that this strides show his readiness and commitment to work which is a good omen.
Dakum further praised him for the distribution of fertilizer meted to his constituents yesterday, saying Plateau farmers really need to be supported especially at this season as its cost is so exorbitant beyond the rich of many subsistence farmers.
He wished the Speaker more fruitful years ahead, sound health and divine wisdom as he pilots the affairs of the state legislature.
The President, Plateau State Traditional Council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, has sent an urgent message to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, and senators unite now to crush insecurity and revive Nigeria’s battered economy, or watch the nation slide deeper into crisis.
The Royal Father gave the charge at his palace in Jos during a courtesy visit by the newly elected National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
He warned that on the Plateau, and in many other parts of the country, farmers can no longer go to their fields and traders dare not open shops for fear of attacks by “bloodthirsty militias.”
“We know many of these problems were inherited, but Nigerians are hungry, afraid, and hopeless.
Security and the economy must be rescued now. People are dying and food is disappearing from our tables,” the Gbong Gwom Jos declared.
Reminiscing on his years as a Customs Officer from 1977 to 1982, Da Jacob Gyang Buba lamented that Nigeria had never faced this insecurity. He cited the terror gripping Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Plateau, where communities now spend more time burying loved ones than planting crops.
“We want to appeal to all of you to work with the President so Nigerians can return to their farms and workplaces. God holds the destiny of nations, but He uses people to fulfill His plans,” he stressed.
Political Leaders Must Deliver The Gbong Gwom Jos reminded politicians that stability is all Nigerians desire.
He noted that every political party promises change, but urged leaders to back words with decisive action. He pledged that the Traditional Council will continue to pray for them, but challenged them to seek divine guidance in the restoration agenda.
APC Governors Show Solidarity Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, representing President Tinubu, praised the Gbong Gwom Jos for producing “a capable son” like Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
He said Nentawe’s leadership of the APC would restore peace in Plateau and beyond. Uzodimma, who also chairs the Progressive Governors’ Forum, recalled that visiting Jos in the 1980s was like “travelling to America” because of its multicultural harmony.
He expressed optimism that Nentawe’s tenure would return the state to those peaceful glory days. Nentawe’s Promise In his response, Professor Nentawe thanked President Tinubu, governors, and party leaders for their trust.
He attributed his values to the upbringing given by his parents, promising not to betray the confidence placed in him.
The delegation also included Senator Simon Bako Lalong, former Governor of Plateau State and senator representing Plateau South.
The Gbong Gwom Jos closed with a firm reminder to the APC National Chairman :
“This assignment will not be easy, but you must stand firm. Tell your colleagues that the people have accepted the challenge now you must deliver.
End the bloodshed and bring back Nigeria’s lost dignity.”
The Waziri Mushere, Chief Yohana Yilpwan Margif, has raised a heart-wrenching alarm over what he described as a creeping but coordinated plot by agents of terror to annex large portions of Plateau State, leaving indigenes landless and in despair.
In a strongly worded e-statement, Margif, who once flew the Labour Party flag in the governorship race, lamented that the killings and raids on villages across Plateau are no longer random but a carefully executed strategy to seize ancestral farmlands.
According to him, the perpetrators, mainly armed Fulani herdsmen, are working with precision and deadly intent to capture at least 40 percent of Plateau’s farming lands, exploiting their superior weapons to overwhelm “armless and defenceless” communities that have been left to their fate by government inaction.
“It breaks my heart that Governor Caleb Mutfwang has yet to fulfil promises made to grieving communities during his visits,”
Margif said in anguish, stressing that the unkept assurances have emboldened the attackers.
He noted with pain that even with security personnel stationed close to the scenes of these attacks, their response remains “either too late or crushed by the sheer force of the invaders.”
Margif recalled that this silent land war began years ago in Jos South, Barkin Ladi, and other parts of Plateau when leaders failed to stamp out early signs of occupation.
“Today, the herders have declared an open war, and Mushere Chiefdom, my people are now their direct target,” he warned.
He called on every Plateau citizen to rise from slumber, shun complacency, and confront this existential threat.
“This is no time for silence,” he insisted.
“We must unite and demand urgent action from leaders who appear to have forgotten their sacred duty of protecting lives and property.”
The Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) today 8th August 2025, as two respected figures, elder statesman Chief Amos Gizo, member of the Association’s Board of Trustees, and Dr. Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, successfully brokered peace between the warring factions of the body, paving the way for long-awaited elections into its executive positions.
The decisive breakthrough came at an emergency joint meeting held on Friday, August 8, 2025, convened by Chief Daman, Chairman of the PPA and Publisher of Newsgate Magazine, and Comrade Shabul Mazadu, Chairman of the Independent Publishers Association (IPA) and Publisher of The Beacon Newspaper.
The peace journey began when Chief Amos Gizo, in his capacity as a BOT member, invited the factions to the table, urging them to end years of division.
His call was amplified during a follow-up meeting on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at the NUJ Secretariat, Jos, where Dr. Gyang Bere reinforced the need for unity.
Dr. Bere told the publishers that without one strong, united body, they would continue to lose out on government benefits already enjoyed by the Broadcast Chapel, Correspondents Chapel, and the mother union, NUJ.
“Organize yourselves, reconcile, and move forward as one formidable association,” Bere charged, warning that disunity was a sure path to continued marginalization.
In an unprecedented show of commitment to the peace process, both Chief Daman and Comrade Mazadu announced they would step aside from their positions as chairmen of their respective factions.
This, they said, would allow a neutral Electoral Committee (ECOM) to oversee credible elections.
The meeting resolved that the election must be held within six weeks to avoid further delays and ensure the PPA taps into opportunities under the Mutfwang-led government.
“If we fail to unite now, we will keep working for others to enjoy,” Daman warned, calling the peace move “a turning point for Plateau publishers.”
Mazadu lamented the years of lost opportunities caused by disunity, noting that while the previous administration ignored publishers, the current government had shown willingness to work with them a chance they could not afford to waste.
Publisher of Reality Newspaper & TV Online, Val Adese, also threw his weight behind the reconciliation, stressing that unity would open new doors for growth and influence.
In a unanimous decision, the meeting appointed Val Adese as Chairman of ECOM, with a Secretary and PRO to assist him in midwifing the election process.
With Gizo’s wisdom and Bere’s mediation finally closing the chapter of factional strife, the Plateau publishing community now stands on the threshold of a new, united era one with a ticking 6-week countdown to leadership renewal.
The Plateau State Government has launched a fully digital business premises registration platform, marking a decisive shift from manual operations to a tech-enabled commercial framework.
The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, during a high-level stakeholder sensitization meeting held at the Sarau Event Centre on Wednesday, August 7, 2025, declared the transition to an online system as “a turning point in our journey toward a transparent, efficient, and technology-driven economy.”
Addressing a hall filled with industry stakeholders, business owners, local government chairmen, and development partners, the Commissioner emphasized that the manual system of registration had become obsolete in the face of rapid economic and technological evolution.
“For decades, our business registration has been paper-based effective in its time, but inadequate for today’s economic realities,” he stated.
The newly unveiled portal is designed to :
Provide a secure, user-friendly interface,
Guide users through each step of the registration process,
Enable instant online payments and issuance of digital certificates,
Offer real-time status tracking and
Minimize human error and bureaucratic bottlenecks.
According to the Commissioner, the move is in line with the “Time is Now” reform mantra of His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and conforms with global best practices in ease of doing business and digital governance.
“This isn’t just about digitizing a form, it’s about empowering businesses, improving our ease-of-doing-business ranking, and boosting investor confidence,” he added.
In his remark, the Director General of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS), Mr. Pam Wayas, commended the initiative, saying it marks the end of the pen and paper era.
“Now, once you log onto the portal, in a few minutes, you’re done with registration. Even if you don’t have a TIN (Tax Identification Number), the system allows you to generate it instantly,” Wayas revealed.
He said the innovation will not only ensure that all businesses in the state are traceable with accurate data but will also block revenue leakages.
“It may shock you to know that many businesses currently operate without any known address or proper registration.
This system ends that era. It’s like creating a Bio-Data profile for every business in Plateau,” he said.
He further noted that the initiative aligns with the government’s intention to support SMEs, especially in interventions and grants.
“When the government wants to support small businesses, this data will be critical.
Right now, many taxpayers don’t even have TINs — or they have useless numbers. This system changes that,” he stressed.
The ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Kanam Local Government Area, Alhaji Hanani, hailed the digital shift as revolutionary and timely.
“This innovation means increased revenue for the government, which can then be channeled into developmental projects across the state. I will personally lead sensitization efforts at the local level,” Hanani pledged.
The Ministry emphasized that the platform’s success depends on cooperation and engagement.
The Commissioner reassured stakeholders that training materials, customer service support, and physical help desks will be made available to facilitate a smooth onboarding process.
“We’re not just here to inform. We’re here to listen, engage, and build this system with you.
The future is online—and the future is now,” the Commissioner concluded to resounding applause.
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has taken a decisive step towards tackling environmental challenges by initiating an institutional framework in collaboration with the World Bank to generate reliable data aimed at mitigating floods, droughts, and other natural disasters confronting the state.
The Governor disclosed this during an interactive session with the World Bank team led by Mr. Francis Samson Nkoka, Senior Disaster Management Specialist, and Mr. Oluwaseun Ayodele, Urban Development Specialist, held at the Governor’s Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja.
Governor Mutfwang expressed appreciation to the World Bank team for extending their support to subnational governments, particularly Plateau State, which is currently contending with recurring floods, droughts, and acute water shortages, especially in the Southern Senatorial Zone.
He stressed that accurate and up-to-date data will guide government action through effective planning and targeted interventions.
The Governor emphasized the need to strengthen the state’s urban renewal policy, combining both structural and non-structural measures such as land use planning, enforcement of building codes, and the establishment of early warning systems to combat flooding. He commended the Plateau State Disaster.
Management Agency (PLASEMA) for its efforts in coordinating disaster prevention, mitigation, and community resilience initiatives aimed at minimizing risks.
“Flooding remains one of the most common disasters we face, but we are also contending with drought in the Southern Zone of the state. Recently, we experienced nearly three weeks without rainfall, which destroyed early crops planted by our farmers,” the Governor said.
He noted that the ACReSAL Project, which predates his administration but is now under implementation, forms part of ongoing efforts to address these environmental threats.
However, he pointed out that the project does not currently provide for the economic recovery of drought victims, adding that such gaps must be addressed through an inclusive investment plan.
“To tackle drought, we are exploring investment in irrigation systems to compensate for losses during the rainy season, alongside other sustainable measures,” he stated.
Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving road infrastructure, particularly in rural communities, noting that while the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) has recorded progress, government intends to deepen interventions to achieve a fully integrated approach across the state.
He underscored the central role of data in achieving these goals, pointing out this is the reason for the strategic partnership with the World Bank to meet the needs and aspirations of the people of Plateau state, especially in rural areas where the majority reside.
Earlier, Mr. Francis Samson Nkoka and Mr. Oluwaseun Ayodele briefed the Governor on the need to establish a robust institutional framework to strengthen development planning in the state. They explained that the World Bank had conducted in-depth studies on flood disasters in Nigeria, examining their sources, mitigation strategies, and economic impacts, and offered to domesticate the findings in Plateau to enhance disaster preparedness and ensure swift, coordinated responses.
Former Plateau State Governor, Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye, has felicitated with the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, on the joyful occasion of his 57th Birthday anniversary.
According to an e-statement, Senator Dariye extolled his leadership qualities, hard work, and his unwavering commitment to the service of his fatherland, which has seen his rapid rise from being a Resident Electoral Commissioner, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to the National Chairman of the APC.
He paid glowing tributes to the former Minister for his integrity, benevolence, and community service.
He offers scholarships to students who pass the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB exams annually.
The former Governor commended Professor Nentawe for his zeal, passion, and progress in Nigeria as he recorded a landmark achievement with the introduction of the BVAS Machine, which has drastically reduced fraud in the nation’s electoral system.
Senator Dariye praised the celebrant for being a strong advocate of unity and peaceful coexistence which he exemplifies after losing the 2023 Plateau State Governorship election by cautioning his supporters to remain calm and law abiding even in the face of provocation.
While expressing confidence in his ability to turn the fortunes of the APC around, Senator Dariye implored Professor Nentawe Yilwatda to bring his wealth of experience to bare in positioning the ruling party and galvanized it to victory as the APC seeks to maintain its popularity and dominance beyond 2027.
On behalf of his family, friends and political associates, the former Governor prayed for wisdom, strength and good health as he continues to pilot party affairs to the best of his ability.
E-Sign :
Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye PhD. Former Governor, Plateau State.
Director General of the Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), Hon. Samuel Nathaniel Dapiya, on Thursday, August 7th, 2025, stormed the Hausa-Fulani settlements within Jos North LGA, declaring what he described as a full-scale environmental offensive against illegal structures, poor sanitation practices, and imminent flood threats.
The DG’s surprise visit, which caught many unawares, was facilitated by Alh. Comr. Bello Dauda Gana, the Hausa-Fulani Coordinator to Hon. Amb. Daniel Asama , Member Representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, as part of a broader drive to strengthen synergy between grassroots communities and state agencies in environmental policy enforcement.
Hon. Dapiya, flanked by his technical team, commenced the field tour with a thorough inspection of water drainage lines, especially those dangerously clogged or obstructed by buildings erected without approval.
At several inspection points, the DG lamented the alarming level of urban encroachment and warned that the looming risk of flooding, as forecasted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), could become a reality if proactive steps are not taken.
“This is not a political visit. It is a rescue mission. What I’ve seen here calls for urgent government intervention and strong community cooperation. We are here to protect lives, not just enforce laws,” Dapiya declared while addressing concerned residents.
The next stop for the PEPSA DG and his team was several notorious waste dump locations where locals indiscriminately dispose of non-biodegradable materials and household refuse.
In his words, Dapiya described such dumping as “slow suicide” that gradually poisons the environment.
Religious Leaders Offer Prayers, Endorse PEPSA’s Action Plan.
The visit also featured a symbolic but spiritually significant moment when religious clerics, imams, and traditional leaders gathered to pray for Hon. Dapiya and his team, describing the visit as a “healing wind” that signals inclusion and belonging.
The DG consulted with key leaders of the Hausa-Fulani community, reinforcing the Plateau State Government’s commitment under Governor Caleb Mutfwang to carry all communities along in its sanitation and urban development blueprint.
“This visit is proof that our voices matter. We are no longer on the sidelines,” said Alh. Comr. Bello Dauda Gana, who commended PEPSA and reiterated Hon. Daniel Asama dedication to inclusive governance.
DG Dapiya Applauds Community Spirit, Hails Governor Mutfwang’s Vision wrapping up the visit, Hon. Samuel N. Dapiya expressed profound gratitude to the community leaders and residents for their open arms and willingness to collaborate with government efforts.
He stressed that sanitation is not the duty of the government alone, but a collective social obligation where every resident, regardless of tribe or religion, has a role to play.
“You’ve proven that the Hausa-Fulani community is not only peaceful but development-minded. On behalf of the Plateau State Government and our action-driven Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, I say thank you. Let’s keep this partnership alive,” Dapiya concluded.
As PEPSA vows to sustain the environmental sanitation drive, and as stakeholders rally behind Hon. Dapiya’s blueprint, it is clear that the battle for a cleaner, safer, and flood-free Plateau is no longer just on paper,it is on the ground, and the Hausa-Fulani community in Jos North has joined the frontline.
The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, on Thursday, stormed the 3 Division Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba Barracks, in a high-powered visit to the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Maj. Gen. Abdusalam Folunsho Oyinlola, who also commands Operation Safe Haven (OPSH).
The visit, which was neither ceremonial nor courtesy in nature, was a deliberate tactical outreach to build a functional Media-Military synergy towards securing and stabilizing the Peace-Threatened Plateau.
Led by Executives and frontline reporters from leading national and international media houses, the Plateau Correspondents’ Chapel renowned for its watchdog role restated its commitment to partnering with security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Army, in the collective battle against insecurity, misinformation, and communal disintegration.
Speaking during the visit, the Chapel Chairman Mr. Polycarp Auta, described the engagement as “timely and tactical,” noting that journalists are not just storytellers, but critical stakeholders in the peace architecture of Plateau State.
“We are here to build a bridge between link and arms between press and peace. The narrative of Plateau must change, and we are ready to use our platforms to amplify truth and tranquillity,” the chairman declared.
In his response, Maj.-Gen. Oyinlola welcomed the chapel members with open arms, commending them for recognizing the need to strengthen institutional collaboration for the common good.
The GOC, known for his strategic leadership both in the barracks and on the field, charged the press to remain professional, patriotic, and people-oriented.
“You hold the microphone; you shape the mindset. What you report can build or burn. Choose to build,” the GOC said pointedly.
He encouraged journalists to balance sensitivity with truth, particularly in times of crises, while assuring the chapel of the Army’s openness to genuine partnerships that promote peace, national unity, and community cohesion.
The meeting offered a rare opportunity for brainstorming on collaborative strategies, including accurate information dissemination, peace advocacy, and proactive intelligence sharing between the media and security forces.
In a state like Plateau where disinformation has often fanned the flames of violence, both parties agreed that truthful storytelling and professional security response must go hand-in-hand to de-escalate tensions and rebuild trust among communities.
The GOC expressed optimism that the renewed collaboration with the media will translate into a more informed public and a more peaceful Plateau, pledging full cooperation with the Correspondents’ Chapel as frontline peace communicators.
“Together, we can win the war against terror and restore Plateau to its glory. Let the media and the military walk this path hand in hand,” Oyinlola affirmed.
In a time when leadership is no longer about position but vision, passion, and proven sacrifice, Comrade Azi Peter Aware emerges as the glowing symbol of hope and audacity for the Afizere Youth Development Association (AYDA).
Not a stranger to the corridors of grassroots governance, and certainly not a passerby in youth advocacy, Comr. Azi Aware represents a perfect blend of integrity, intellect, humility, and bold ambition a man forged in the furnace of service, tested through the storms of leadership, and trusted by the very people he now seeks to serve at a higher pedestal.
Comr. Azi’s political and social journey did not begin today. As the outgoing Vice President of AYDA, his tenure was a season of visible growth, youth reawakening, and repositioning of the association’s identity.
Through visionary initiatives, bold advocacy, and tireless coordination, he became a bridge between the old and the new, the elders and the youths, the local and the national.
Before rising to that position, he cut his teeth as a grassroots mobilizer, earning the respect of both peers and mentors for his exceptional communication, conflict resolution, and youth engagement skills.
His role as a Director in the Youth Council opened doors of opportunities for many proving that leadership is not about occupying space, but creating it for others.
Azi doesn’t just see the problem he maps out the solution. His bold agenda focuses on youth empowerment, skills acquisition, education reform, and job creation.
He is a man who listens more than he speaks, but when he does, he speaks truth to power. He’s bold in vision, grounded in humility.
He believes everyone counts, and under his watch, no Afizere youth will be left behind, regardless of location, status, or belief.
Not many aspirants can boast of completing a tenure without scandal and still walk the streets with their heads high. Azi’s tenure as VP speaks volumes.
He is beloved by both elders and youths, constantly building bridges between tradition and innovation—an important quality in uniting the diverse structure of AYDA.
At a time when AYDA stands at a critical crossroad between past glory and future possibilities ,Comr. Azi Peter Aware steps forward not just as a candidate, but as a calling.
He is not desperate for position; he is destined for purpose.
He is not seeking power; he is answering a people’s cry for genuine transformation.
He is not a politician in pursuit of title; he is a servant-leader pursuing legacy.
As campaigns intensify, let Afizere youths remember this moment in history. A moment when a man of honour, built from their midst, steps forward with nothing but a heart to serve.
Comr. Azi Peter Aware is not just ready to lead he is prepared to deliver.
The people of Bokkos Local Government Area in Plateau State have raised a fresh alarm over what they described as a raging genocide, ethnic cleansing, and systemic annihilation of their ancestral heritage by armed Fulani herders.
In a bold and impassioned press statement released on August 6th, 2025, the Bokkos Likeminds Association called for urgent intervention and sweeping reforms to halt the bloodshed before it completely erases their existence.
The statement, co-signed by Dr. S.T. Nguwap, President of the association, and Dr. Engr. Morgan Mangai, Secretary General, painted a chilling picture of continued mass killings, destruction of farmlands, burning of homes, and mass displacements orchestrated by suspected Fulani militias in the area.
“We vehemently condemn the frequent attacks and genocidal acts being unleashed upon our people by armed Fulani herdsmen. These are not communal clashes they are systematic and coordinated ethnic cleansing,” the leaders declared.
Over the years, the group noted, hundreds of lives have been lost, and entire villages wiped out in sustained waves of violence. What were once isolated attacks have now evolved into routine butchery, often executed in the dark of night and allegedly under the watch or delayed intervention of security operatives.
“Our people have been forced off their ancestral lands. Our farmlands are now occupied by those who came with guns, not identity.
We are bleeding daily, and yet the world watches,” the statement thundered.
The Bokkos Likeminds Association maintained that many of those perpetrating these heinous crimes are foreign Fulani immigrants who infiltrated Nigeria through porous northern borders, settling illegally and unleashing terror in what they termed a deliberate land-grabbing strategy.
In response, the association issued a series of bold demands aimed at restoring peace and justice to the beleaguered region :
Immediate eviction of all Fulani immigrants without legal or ancestral claims to the Bokkos land.
A total and nationwide ban on open grazing, which has proven to be a deadly trigger for conflict across Nigeria.
Adoption of modern ranching practices and enforcement of anti-open grazing laws by both federal and state governments.
Other demands of the association also include,
Strict enforcement of immigration protocols to prevent infiltration of armed foreign elements and undocumented settlers and
Constitutional recognition of indigenous rights, including the right to self-defence in collaboration with state-authorized security outfits.
“The Nigerian state cannot continue to fail in its duty to protect lives and properties. We demand reforms that empower our people to survive. We will not wait to be wiped out.”
The statement asserted.
The group insisted that documented deportation of foreign invaders, backed by stronger border security and surveillance, is key to ending the cycle of violence.
They also urged that local communities must no longer be left vulnerable and disarmed in the face of sustained terror.
With a heavy tone, the statement warned of dire consequences if urgent action is not taken :
“Without justice, reform, and security, the people of Bokkos will continue to face atrocities that stain Nigeria’s conscience and threaten her unity. Our ancestral lands are not for conquest.”
They called on the Plateau State Government, the Federal Government, and international humanitarian actors to rise and take immediate steps to bring an end to the carnage, restore displaced communities, and ensure that peace and dignity are returned to Bokkos land.
As Bokkos bleeds, its voice rises louder the cry for justice, protection, and ancestral restoration can no longer be ignored.
History was made in Jos today, August 6, 2025, as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, landed in Plateau State in a storm of political glory, flanked by six sitting governors, top senators, and a horde of federal lawmakers.
The private chartered aircraft conveying the APC boss and his high-profile entourage touched down at Yakubu Gowon Airport shortly after 1:00 pm, but the mood had already been set from as early as 8:00 am, when mammoth crowds of party supporters flooded the airport axis, chanting .
The National Chairman was accompanied by political heavyweights including :
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos)
Governor Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa)
Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun)
Governor Mai Mala Buni (Yobe)
Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe)
Governor Hope Uzodimma (Imo)
Also onboard were ranking senators, including Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, and House of Representatives members from across the nation.
Awaiting him at the tarmac were the Plateau APC State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Rufus Bature, the State Working Committee, Elders Council, and State Assembly Members led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Daniel Naanlong, who showered him with heartfelt tributes and warm embraces.
Traditional dancers, cultural troupes, and APC youth wings set the tarmac aglow with rhythm and color, reflecting Plateau’s pride in Nentawe’s elevation to national leadership.
Without wasting a moment, Professor Nentawe drove straight from the airport to a private engagement with the Plateau State Traditional Council, led by respected monarchs from all senatorial zones.
He is also scheduled to hold separate closed-door sessions with Christian leaders under the CAN bloc and Muslim clerics under JNI a deliberate move to foster religious harmony and build a broader alliance for national unity.
Though officially described as a private visit, today’s outing has clearly redefined the political landscape of Plateau and reaffirmed Nentawe’s growing national influence, barely months into his tenure as APC’s National Chairman.
Observers believe this visit signals the beginning of a renewed political roadmap for Plateau, as Nentawe consolidates his leadership with a grassroots touch and high-powered national alignment.
He is expected to return to Abuja later this evening.
Pix of Participants & Dignitaries At The Workshop.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has sent a strong warning to the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to rise up to its constitutional responsibility of regulating, monitoring, and disciplining its members to prevent quackery and impersonation in the noble profession.
The Governor, who issued the stern charge during a three-day workshop for Nurses and Midwives in the North Central Zone held at Crispan Hotel, Jos, on July 5th, 2025, said unchecked quackery could drag the hard-earned reputation of the nursing and midwifery profession into the mud. Represented by the Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicolas Bamlong, Governor Mutfwang stressed that his administration is aggressively transforming the health sector to ensure that nurses and other medical professionals operate under the best conditions.
Mutfwang’s Scorecard: “In Just Two Years, We’ve Changed the Game”
Highlighting his administration’s strides in less than two years, the Governor revealed massive upgrades in primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities across all 17 local government areas of Plateau State.
“At the primary health level, we have commenced the revitalization of 82 health institutions across the 17 LGAs,” the Governor announced.
He added that essential drugs are now readily available through a well-structured Drugs and Commodity Management Agency, which boasts the best pharmaceutical-grade store in Nigeria today.
At the secondary health level, Mutfwang disclosed that several moribund hospitals have been revived and equipped with modern facilities, including : General Hospital, Mabudi , Lantang South LGA
These facilities, he said, were previously in a state of abandonment, but have now been restored with X-ray machines, scanning equipment, and other advanced medical tools.
Plateau Specialist Hospital Now World-Class Governor Mutfwang further disclosed that the Plateau State Specialist Hospital has undergone significant upgrades to international standards, particularly in its laboratory services and ward renovations.
“We have ensured the laboratory department now meets global standards. This is a clear testament to our determination to deliver quality healthcare,” he said.
He also revealed that the state has scaled up health insurance enrollment from 18,000 to nearly 100,000 vulnerable residents, including children, women, and the elderly, under the Plateau State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme.
Nursing Council Must Act Fast – Mutfwang Despite these achievements, the Governor urged the NMCN not to relax, warning that failure to enforce standards could allow quacks to infiltrate and destroy the profession.
“You are doing well with capacity building, but please protect the integrity of nursing. Don’t allow quackery to hijack and dominate this noble profession,” Mutfwang stressed.
NMCN Backs Governor, Sets New Agenda Earlier, the Registrar and CEO of NMCN, Mr. Ndagi Alhassan, said the workshop—held bi-annually for the North Central zone—aims to upgrade the skills of current and prospective examiners and mentor them for better healthcare delivery.
He charged participants to take the training seriously and apply the knowledge to improve nursing practice across Nigeria.
A loud cry for help has echoed from Plateau State as Waziri Mushere of Bokkos Local Government Area, Yohana Margif, passionately begged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a State of Emergency to stop the ongoing bloodbath and land-grabbing by armed terrorists.
Margif, speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, said the horror in Plateau has reached a breaking point, warning that seven villages have already fallen under the control of bloodthirsty invaders.
“The savage killings and destruction of homes continue even as of today, Tuesday, Aug. 5th, 2025.
Seven communities have been captured, and many lives lost. No one knows what will happen next. The people cannot sleep and are helpless,” he said tremblingly.
According to the embattled traditional leader, innocent villagers have been slaughtered, their homes burnt, and their ancestral lands forcefully taken over.
Displaced families now roam as refugees in their fatherland, he lamented.
Margif, visibly emotional, condemned the failure of government and security agencies to act decisively, describing it as a gross betrayal of constitutional duty.
“The primary duty of any government is to protect lives and property. If it fails to do that, then it has no business being in existence,” he thundered.
The Waziri Mushere warned that unless the Federal Government intervenes NOW, more blood will flow, and entire communities will be wiped off the map.
“I call on President Tinubu to declare a State of Emergency in Plateau State before we are all gone,” he pleaded.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has joined numerous well-wishers and associates in felicitating with the Mishkaham Mwaghavul, His Royal Highness, Da John Putmang Hirse, on the joyous occasion of his birthday.
In a heartfelt congratulatory message, Governor Mutfwang described Da Hirse as a towering statesman and a reservoir of wisdom, whose impactful contributions have significantly shaped community development, good governance, and strategic collaboration within Plateau State and across Nigeria.
He extolled Da Hirse as a distinguished administrator, a principled and visionary traditional ruler, and a forward-thinking entrepreneur whose selfless efforts have lifted many out of poverty and despair.
The Governor further commended the revered monarch’s enduring legacy of fairness, justice, tolerance, and steadfast commitment to the collective progress of the Mwaghavul nation and Plateau State.
According to him, these exemplary attributes have earned Da Hirse widespread respect and honour from far and near.
Governor Mutfwang expressed deep appreciation for the royal father’s consistent counsel and prayed that his wisdom would continue to guide efforts toward building a peaceful, united, and prosperous Plateau.
On behalf of his family, the government, and the good people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang extended his warm felicitations to Da John Putmang Hirse and prayed for continued strength, good health, and divine grace as he continues to discharge his royal responsibilities for the benefit of the people.
Gyang Bere Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State August 5, 2025
Gov.Mutfwang Flanked by Hon.Daniel During Commissioning
History was made in Plateau State as Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang and Hon. Daniel Asama jointly unveiled The Great Oaks Trauma Informed Education Centre a world-class educational facility aimed at restoring the hopes and dreams of less privileged and crisis traumatized children in Bassa Local Government Area.
The landmark project, a product of collaboration between Back2Back Ministries, USA, Hon. Daniel Asama Member Representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, and Vineyard Church, Cincinnati, stands as a shining example of compassion in action for orphans and vulnerable children whose lives have been battered by years of insecurity and hardship.
Speaking at the commissioning held at Great Oaks Academy Kisaghip “B” Bassa Local Government 4th August 2025, Governor Mutfwang described the initiative as a clear demonstration of the teachings of Jesus Christ.
“I commend Hon. Daniel Asama and all your partners for this labour of love. You are feeding the hungry, giving water to the thirsty, and offering opportunity to the underprivileged. This is true ministry,” Mutfwang stated.
He applauded Vineyard Church for investing in both the education and eternal value of human lives, assuring them that “Heaven is recording your efforts, and even if the world never hears your names, your rewards are secure before God.”
The Governor urged other privileged Nigerians to emulate such generosity, warning that “wealth not used to uplift others is waste.” He pledged the full support of his administration to ensure the school meets its transformative mission.
In his remarks, Hon. Daniel Asama revealed that the vision began modestly with just four people, himself, Jason, Emily, and their driver, but has now blossomed into a facility with 135 full-time staff and 24 ad-hoc workers.
“This is one of only four trauma informed schools in the world. We combine Nigerian and American curricula tailored to the needs of children from crisis backgrounds.
Our goal is to break the cycle of generational poverty through holistic care,” Asama said.
He emotionally recalled how children from Vineyard’s Sunday School once donated their pocket money to build the preschool block, describing it as “a movement built on love and sacrifice.”
Chairman of Bassa Local Government Council, Dr. Joshua Sunday Riti, hailed the project as a strategic investment in the future, declaring, “A society without education is doomed. This is a beacon of hope for the hopeless.”
Representing the Kiche community, Ati Ezekiel Angai thanked Governor Mutfwang for his inclusive leadership, recalling that since 1999, three administrations had contributed to the project’s journey from land acquisition to compensation ,but Mutfwang had crowned the efforts with the commissioning.
He also lauded the Governor for integrating Kiche indigenes into his administration and for facilitating the establishment of a local MOPOL squadron.
With the commissioning of this groundbreaking institution, Bassa’s children once scarred by conflict now have a renewed path to healing, education, and a brighter future thanks to the shared vision of Governor Mutfwang, Hon. Asama, and their global partners. He maintained.
The leadership crisis rocking the Plateau Publishers Association (PPA) boiled over at the weekend as two major power brokers in the state’s media space, Chief Amb. Nanyah Andrew Daman and Shabul Mazadu, jointly denounced what they called a fraudulent and kangaroo election that produced Prince Daniel John Bok as factional Chairman.
In a blistering joint press statement, the duo—who control over two-thirds of genuine PPA membershipurged the public, government agencies, and private organisations to disregard Bok’s claim to the chairmanship, warning that any dealings with him in that capacity “will be at their peril” and could trigger legal action.
How The Drama Unfolded.
The crisis erupted ahead of the July 29, 2025, Media Parley with Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.
According to Daman and Mazadu, Nash Vongdip, self-styled chairman of an electoral committee, hurriedly staged a secret “election” installing Bok, moments after learning of an official meeting between the PPA and the Director of Press and Public Affairs (DOPPA), Dr. Gyang Bere.
In a move they say betrayed ulterior motives, Nash allegedly conducted the election without knowing the wider association and vanished without attending the parley—despite being a key figure in creating the controversy.
Official Vs.Parallel Of Invitation
Evidence presented by the PPA leaders shows two different invitations to the media parley :
The official DOPPA invitation, which openly called on all recognized media bodies including the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the original PPA, the Plateau Bloggers Association, and social media influencers.
Bok’s private message, which claimed attendance was “strictly by invitation” and was sent selectively to publishers on an individual basis.
The duo described this as “clear fraud at work” designed to sow division and manipulate attendance.
DOPPA Rejects”Election”
At a follow-up meeting on Sunday, August 3, 2025, Dr. Bere reportedly : Rejected the Conducted election outright .
Directed all factions to obey Chief Amos Gizo, BOT Chairman, by dissolving splinter groups and conducting fresh, transparent elections.
Announced he would not engage with any of the factional leaders—Daman, Mazadu, or Bok—until an authentic, unified executive was presented.
The Independent Publishers Association (IPA), led by Mazadu, has since merged with the original PPA under Daman, representing the majority. A fresh election for a legitimate executive is expected “within the week.”
Final Warning To Bok.
In their closing remarks, Daman and Mazadu warned Bok to stop parading himself as PPA Chairman or face the “giant teeth of the law.”
“Any Ministry, organisation or department that recognises Daniel Bok as PPA Chairman and has any dealings with him in that regard does so at its peril,” the statement read. “If he uses a different name, that’s his constitutional right—but not under the Plateau Publishers Association banner.”
Plateau State has been listed among 30 states and the Federal Capita Territory (FCT) likely to witness heavy rainfall that may trigger flooding between 31st July and 4th August 2025, according to an urgent alert issued by the Federal Ministry of Environment.
The warning, released by the National Flood Early Warning Center (FEWS), placed Mangu, Bokkos, Bukuru, and Jos in the high-risk category, urging residents, local councils, and emergency agencies to prepare for possible disaster.
The Director of Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management Department, Usman Abdullahi Bokani, said the prediction follows detailed weather analysis and is meant to avert loss of lives and property.
“Relevant stakeholders should kindly take note and act swiftly to minimize risks,” Bokani stated, urging proactive measures such as drainage clearance, relocation from flood-prone zones, and public sensitization.
In a rare show of political camaraderie, two towering figures of the North-Central political landscape — Senator Joshua Dariye, former Governor of Plateau State, and Hon. Solomon Ewuga, former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, ex-Senator, and Minister of State for the FCT — on Saturday stormed the Abuja residence of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in what party insiders describe as a “power visit with a purpose.”
The high-profile courtesy call, coming just weeks after Prof. Yilwatda assumed the mantle of leadership of the ruling party, has been interpreted by political watchers as a clear signal of deepening alliances and renewed political strength in the region.
Senator Dariye, in his remarks, showered warm congratulations on the APC chairman, declaring his confidence in Yilwatda’s ability to steer the party to greater heights. He prayed for God’s wisdom and knowledge to guide him in his stewardship.
Hon. Ewuga, equally effusive in his goodwill, hailed the visit as more than mere formality, describing it as a reaffirmation of shared vision, political solidarity, and friendship forged over decades of service.
Senator Dariye, remembered for his two-term tenure as Plateau State Governor from 1999 to 2007 and later as a distinguished voice in the Senate, remains an influential figure whose political endorsements carry weight across the region.
Hon. Solomon Ewuga, on the other hand, is revered as one of Nasarawa’s most versatile politicians — having served as Deputy Governor, a Senator representing Nasarawa North, and later as Minister of State for the FCT — a portfolio that expanded his political reach nationally.
For many observers, the meeting was a symbolic handshake across the Plateau and Nasarawa divide — a reminder that in politics, experience, unity, and strategic alliances remain the bedrock of victory.
A coalition of concerned Muslims in Plateau State has openly rejected a recent statement by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), describing the group’s allegations against Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang as “reckless, inciting, and far from the truth.”
The coalition, in a statement signed by Alhaji Mohammed Adamu, expressed “utter disbelief and deep concern” over the remarks issued by MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola.
They accused him of attempting to provoke religious animosity in a state where, they said, peace and inclusiveness have been steadily nurtured.
“We categorically and unequivocally dissociate ourselves from MURIC’s statement. It is a desperate attempt to paint the peace-loving people of Plateau State in a bad light. That dog will not hunt,”
The statement read.
Praise For Inclusive Leadership.
The group said Muslims in Plateau State have enjoyed unprecedented fairness under Governor Mutfwang, with appointments based on merit, not religious identity.
They cited visible projects — from roads and schools to water supply and health centres — reaching Muslim communities, alongside the transparent organisation of annual pilgrimages to Mecca.
“Our leaders under Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) enjoy direct and open access to the Governor to raise issues and offer counsel in the spirit of dialogue and mutual respect,” the coalition stressed.
A Stranger Can’t Beat The Drum….’
Condemning Prof. Akintola’s comments, the coalition said it was baffling that someone who neither resides in Plateau nor understands its reality would attempt to “set fire to the house while pretending to pour water.”
“A stranger cannot beat the drum better than the owner of the masquerade,” the statement declared, describing MURIC’s allegations as “venomous and devoid of facts.”
They warned Akintola against meddling in Plateau’s affairs, likening his interference to “the fly that follows the corpse into the grave.”
Urging Muslims nationwide to disregard MURIC’s position, the coalition said Nigeria needs “healing voices, not toxic tongues.”
“The truth is like the sun — you can cover it for a while, but you cannot stop it from shining,” they said.
Reaffirming their support for Governor Mutfwang, they pledged to resist any attempt to sow division among Plateau’s diverse communities.
“We are stakeholders in the peace and progress of our dear state, and we shall not allow anyone to plant seeds of discord in our midst,” the statement concludes
Plateau Publishers Association (PPA),and the independent Publishers Association (IPA),has disclaimed Self acclaimed one Daniel Bok parading himself as the Chairman of all Publishers on the Plateau .
As Daniel Bok is nothing but an imposter whose action is aided and abated by his kinsman in the corridor of government,the Director Of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Caleb Mutfwang Dr. Gyang Bere , the Commissioner of youth and Sports Musa Ibrahim Ashoms and Adviser to the Governor on strategic communication Mr. Timothy Golu and call for the Governor’s immediate Sack of the duos.
The two association jointly made their position know in a press conference held in jos 31st July 2025 signed by the Chairman Plateau Publishers Association, Ambassador N.A Daman and Chairman Independent Publishers Association Shabul Mazadu respectively.
The Executive members of Publishers on the Plateau comprising Plateau Publishers Association (PPA), and Independent Publishers Association (IPA) in the statement said it’s imperative to address the press describing the time as vexatious and crucial time over the sacrilegious and disrespectful incident that occurred at the ill prepared and bias media Parley held in New Government House Little Ray Field in jos South LG on 29th July 2025.
“At the event ,one Daniel Bok was fraudulently presented as the Chairman all Publishers on the Plateau before the Plateau State Governor Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, Commissioners , Political appointees , National and lnternational Media as well as teeming population of journalists on the Plateau.”
The Association however reiterated it vehement rejection of the illegal and fraudulent imposition of Daniel Bok who is no longer a secret is a kinsman to the Director of press and Public Affairs to the Governor Barrister Caleb Mutfwang as the Chairman of Publishers on the Plateau.
The body advised the Governor , Commissioners, National and International Media to disregard such vexatious , illegal and fraudulent imposition of Daniel Bok who also double as cousin to Gyang Bere the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the eGovernor of Plateau State Caleb Mutfwang.
Further said the cosmetic recognition given to Bok,who is know to be unproductive Publisher at the instance of Director of Press and Public Affairs, DOPPA, Gyang Bere ,was an imposition and totally misleading because currently productive Newspaper, Magazine and online Publishers in the state are currently in factions as you are aware and the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor has no right whatsoever to dabble into the Affairs of Publishers , where he knows nothing of.
The association decries the conspiracy of the recognition given to Daniel Bok, as there is no record anywhere in which the Publishers on the Plateau held election and elect Bok as the Chairman of the body nor interim Chairman.
” Therefore we are issuing a declaimer , urging the Governor , Commissioners, Government Appointees including the Fourth Estates of the Realm and members of the general public to disregard Daniel Bok parading himself as Chairman Publishers on the Plateau and not have anything to do with him on behalf of the productive , genuine print and online Publishers to avoid litigation.”
” Member of the general public may wish to know that the unproductive renegade group he held sway as Chairman ,has since dissolved him and his Exco in preparation for a new elections , the question is how the did Daniel Bok announced and given recognition as Chairman of all Plateau Publishers at the instance and discretion of DOPPA at the parley with the Governor held Tuesday 29th July 2025?
” We thereby inform the members of the general public that the act was not done in good faith but with an ulterior motive to fleece Government of resources through retainership , therefore we are unequivocally distancing our association from the appointment of Daniel Bok as Chairman of all Plateau Publishers but each group be treated separately.”
The association again reiterated that Daniel Bok is not the Chairman of the Mentioned body and will never be the leader of the association , anybody who transacts any business with him on behalf of the Publishers ,does so at his/her peril.
Call on the Government of Plateau state not to discuss any business or have any dealings with Daniel Bok as Chairman on behalf of all Plateau State Publishers ,but treat each group on it’s merits.
However frowned at the involvement of the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor Gyang Bere ,the Commissioner of youth and Sports Musa Ashoms and Adviser Strategic Communication Timothy Goku as embarrassing, illegal and fraudulent behavior .
” We are calling for the immediate removal and the Commissioner for youth and Sports, Musa Ashoms and Adviser Strategic Communication Timothy Golu and all those found Culpable in the conspiracy with immediate effect for causing what the association described as humongous embarrassment to the Governor and the people of Plateau state before they set the Journalists against the Governor.”
The Independent Publishers Association, IPA, Plateau State chapter has condemned in strong terms Unilateral appointment of one Daniel Bok as the Chairman of the association.
As the association hereby expressed with total dismay the disgraceful treatment meted to its members by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, who invited them to a media parley with Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and then presented his kinsman, Daniel Bok as the “Chairman” of all Plateau Publishers.
The condemnation of the body is contained in a press statement dated 30th July 2025 signed by it Chairman Shabul Mazadu and made available to “Gnews” in jos, Plateau State capital.
The statement read in part:
We didn’t react in the hall yesterday by means of protest, because of the respect we accord the governor whom we believe was ignorant of Bere’s scheme, and for the dignitaries and the entire government that were present.
It’s a known fact to Bere that the publishers in Plateau have no single umbrella, but different groups which are Plateau Publishers Association 1, headed by Chief Ambassador Nanyah Daman, Plateau Publishers Association 2, which had Daniel Bok as chairman, but dissolved the chairmanship and other positions to conduct elections, Independent Publishers Association, IPA, with Shabul Mazadu as chairman, and others who did not align with any group.
To our chagrin, Bere, before national and international cameras, Plateau State Governor, Commissioners and other government appointees and huge number of journalists, arranged the recognition of Daniel Bok as the chairman of all publishers on the Plateau, gave him a special seat and made him snap picture with the governor, which is historical.
We felt used by Bere as means of promoting his kinsman, whom also I learnt is his cousin to be accepted by the governor and be communicating with the government on our behalf.
DOPPA has the right to appoint his choice to lead a faction of publishers who choose to align with him, but not the entire publishers, and that, without their consent .
This act is fraudulent and total deception, mischievous and cruel because we have been humiliated and disgraced before all the attendees and all who watched it on television.
IPA is issuing a stern warning to Bere that it will not tolerate any form of fraud using it again. If he wants to promote his kinsman and cousin, he should follow the right channel.
He is in government and has the right to create leadership for Bok and use him to report all government activities without dragging us into his schemes.
He can form his publishers association and make Bok his kinsman the chairman, and ensure that it has nothing to do with us in any way especially giving the impression that we are subject to him.
We will not take any imposition of leadership on us without our consent.
It appears Bere is idle that’s why he could cooked up such mischief, in case of any repeat, we will keep him busy till he has no time to take bath.
Please the general public should take note, Daniel Bok is not the chairman of publishers on the Plateau. He was the chairman of PPA2 which is now led by an ELCOM chairman who will soon conduct elections.
By,giwa alex,jos
The Independent Publishers Association, IPA, Plateau State chapter has condemned in strong terms Unilateral appointment of one Daniel Bok as the Chairman of the association.
As the association hereby expressed with total dismay the disgraceful treatment meted to its members by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere, who invited them to a media parley with Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and then presented his kinsman, Daniel Bok as the “Chairman” of all Plateau Publishers.
The condemnation of the body is contained in a press statement dated 30th July 2025 signed by it Chairman Shabul Mazadu and made available to “Gnews” in jos, Plateau State capital.
The statement read in part:
We didn’t react in the hall yesterday by means of protest, because of the respect we accord the governor whom we believe was ignorant of Bere’s scheme, and for the dignitaries and the entire government that were present.
It’s a known fact to Bere that the publishers in Plateau have no single umbrella, but different groups which are Plateau Publishers Association 1, headed by Chief Ambassador Nanyah Daman, Plateau Publishers Association 2, which had Daniel Bok as chairman, but dissolved the chairmanship and other positions to conduct elections, Independent Publishers Association, IPA, with Shabul Mazadu as chairman, and others who did not align with any group.
To our chagrin, Bere, before national and international cameras, Plateau State Governor, Commissioners and other government appointees and huge number of journalists, arranged the recognition of Daniel Bok as the chairman of all publishers on the Plateau, gave him a special seat and made him snap picture with the governor, which is historical.
We felt used by Bere as means of promoting his kinsman, whom also I learnt is his cousin to be accepted by the governor and be communicating with the government on our behalf.
DOPPA has the right to appoint his choice to lead a faction of publishers who choose to align with him, but not the entire publishers, and that, without their consent .
This act is fraudulent and total deception, mischievous and cruel because we have been humiliated and disgraced before all the attendees and all who watched it on television.
IPA is issuing a stern warning to Bere that it will not tolerate any form of fraud using it again. If he wants to promote his kinsman and cousin, he should follow the right channel.
He is in government and has the right to create leadership for Bok and use him to report all government activities without dragging us into his schemes.
He can form his publishers association and make Bok his kinsman the chairman, and ensure that it has nothing to do with us in any way especially giving the impression that we are subject to him.
We will not take any imposition of leadership on us without our consent.
It appears Bere is idle that’s why he could cooked up such mischief, in case of any repeat, we will keep him busy till he has no time to take bath.
Please the general public should take note, Daniel Bok is not the chairman of publishers on the Plateau. He was the chairman of PPA2 which is now led by an ELCOM chairman who will soon conduct elections.
Gov.Mutfwang’s Condolence Visit To Elaigwu’s Family
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has paid glowing tribute to the late Professor Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, describing him as a towering intellectual, patriotic statesman, and a formidable pillar in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
During a condolence visit to the family residence of the late academic luminary in Dogon Karfe, Jos, Governor Mutfwang extolled the life and legacy of the renowned political scientist, noting that his influence extended far beyond the lecture halls and left an enduring imprint on Nigeria’s political and academic landscapes.
“Prof. Elaigwu was not just a lecturer; he was an institution in himself,” the Governor remarked.
“Having spent the greater part of his career in Jos, his intellectual contributions helped shape the civic and scholarly identity of Plateau State.”
Reflecting on his personal experience, Governor Mutfwang recounted taking an elective course under the late professor in 1984, an experience he described as transformative.
“It was a turning point in my academic journey,” he said.
“His teachings ignited in me a lifelong passion for public policy and democratic governance.”
The Governor praised Professor Elaigwu’s pivotal role during Nigeria’s transition to civilian rule under General Ibrahim Babangida, describing his intellectual interventions and advisory engagements as
“crucial to laying the foundational blocks of democratic governance.”
“He was a scholar of intimidating credentials, deeply respected both at home and abroad.
His voice resonated in critical moments of national discourse, and his research and policy inputs were instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s political restructuring,” Mutfwang added.
Governor Mutfwang expressed profound condolences to the bereaved family and the broader academic community, stating that Nigeria has lost one of its brightest minds.
“This is a national loss. But we are comforted by the life of scholarship, patriotism, and integrity he lived, values that continue to inspire and shape nation-building,” he said.
As a symbolic mark of honor, Governor Mutfwang directed that the ongoing road construction project in the area be extended to the late professor’s residence.
He emphasized that the gesture would stand as a modest but lasting tribute to a man whose contributions elevated the intellectual and democratic fabric of the state and the nation.
Responding on behalf of the family, the daughter of the deceased and current President of the Institute of Governance and Social Research (IGSR), Victoria Elaigwu, thanked the Governor for the condolence visit.
She pledged the family’s and the Institute’s commitment to sustaining her father’s vision for peace, good governance, and inclusive development.
Professor Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, who passed away at the age of 77, was a distinguished political scientist, erudite scholar, and policy advisor.
Until his death, he served as President of the IGSR and left behind a rich legacy of academic excellence, public service, and unwavering commitment to national development.
The Position of the Middle Belt Forum on the Proposed Legislation Making the Sultan of Sokoto, Permanent Co-chairmen of National Council for Traditional Rulers of Nigeria
Forum under the auspices of the “Middle Belt Forum (MBF) “,has frowned at the proposed legislation making the Sultan of Sokoto the Co-Chairman of National Council for Traditional Rulers Of Nigeria.
As the Forum icategorically express its firm opposition to a contentious clause in the National Council for Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024, currently before the National Assembly.
The Middle Belt Forum made the serious condemnation in a strong worded press statement dated 27th July 2025 signed by it National Spokesman Luka Binniyat in Abuja and made available to “Gnews” electronically in Jos, plateau state.
The Bill, sponsored by Senator Simon Bako Lalong representing South in the Senate who respected son of the Middle Belt and the Gwad-Goemai of the Goemai ethnic nation, has passed its second reading as of March 2025 and is now under consideration by the Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service.
At the heart of the controversy lies a deeply troubling clause in the Bill which proposes that the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife be made permanent co-chairmen of the proposed National Council for Traditional Rulers.
While we leave our esteemed partners from the Southern region, to determine their position on the inclusion of the Ooni of Ife, the Middle Belt Forum unequivocally rejects, abhors, and condemns the institutionalisation of the Sultan of Sokoto as a permanent co-chairman of this proposed council.
This rejection is anchored on strong historical, cultural, constitutional, and moral grounds, which we now outline in clear terms:
-The Sokoto Sultanate is Historically Junior to Middle Belt Monarchies.
Historically, the Sokoto Caliphate is a relatively young institution compared to ancient kingdoms and confederacies in the Middle Belt.
For instance, the Kwararafa Confederacy, which flourished for centuries, predates the Caliphate.
It is a historically documented fact that the confederate state of Kwarafa existed right back to circa 800s-1700s A.D.
The Aku Uka of Wukari, its current spiritual heir, represents a legacy that predates Sokoto Caliphate’s very existence.
The Sultan of Sokoto can therefore not supersede the Aku Uka of Wukari in status and prestige to seat over him as Chairman of the Traditional Council created by law.
-The Attah of Igala Ranks Higher in Historical and Traditional Status
The Attah of Igala, whose kingdom flourished well before and after the 14th century, occupies a higher pedestal in terms of history, cultural roots, and legitimacy.
The Igala Kingdom never came under the caliphate’s domain and continues to represent deep-rooted indigenous authority far older and more authentically Nigerian than the Sokoto Sultanate.
– The Tor Tiv Represents a Powerful, Independent Cultural Identity
The Tiv Nation, one of the largest ethnolinguistic groups in Nigeria, was never conquered by the Sokoto Caliphate.
The Tor Tiv stands as the supreme symbol of a proud, resilient people who were acephalous and thrived independently before colonial rule. To ask that the Tor Tiv permanently defer to the Sultan in council matters is a gross distortion of historical facts and a violation of indigenous dignity.
-The Nupe Kingdom Preceded the Sokoto Caliphate
The Nupe Kingdom, with a proud lineage dating back to the 15th century, has its own deep-rooted traditional structures.
Even though Fulani jihadists eventually imposed Islamic rule in Nupe land post-1835, the Etsu Nupe today still represents an enduring cultural institution that predates the Caliphate. In no logical or historical context can the Caliphate claim seniority or supremacy over Nupe tradition.
-Sultan is Primarily a Religious Leader, Not a Secular Traditional Monarch
In Nigeria today, the Sultan of Sokoto is widely acknowledged as the spiritual head of all Nigerian Muslims, particularly across the 19 Northern States and the FCT.
His spiritual leadership role is fundamentally religious. It is not secular. Therefore, his institutionalised leadership over a national council of traditional rulers would alienate Christians, traditional worshippers, and other faiths, violating the secular spirit of Nigeria’s Constitution.
It would also skew the balance of representation in favour of Islam, thereby promoting religious supremacy under the guise of traditional unity.
Though the Kanuri people are not part of the Middle Belt, the truth must however be told :
The Shehu of Borno ranks higher than the Sultan of Sokoto in historical standing. Kanem-Borno embraced Islam as early as the 11th century (circa 1085 AD), long before the 1804 Sokoto Jihad, which never conquered Borno. It is therefore left for the Kanuri people to state their position on this matter.
-The Sultan’s Patronage of MACBAN and the Fulani Crisis
It is on public record that the Sultan of Sokoto is the permanent patron of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), an organisation whose name has become closely linked with violent Fulani herdsmen, who are responsible for thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions, especially in the Middle Belt.
The Sultan has not done enough to condemn or dissociate himself from these atrocities. Making him a permanent co-chairman under such circumstances is a grievous insult to the thousands of victims who continue to suffer under Fulani militia attacks.
The Middle Belt Cannot Continue to Defer to the Sokoto Sultanate
Sixty-five years after Nigeria’s independence, the Middle Belt can no longer accept a subordinate position to the Sultanate of Sokoto or any traditional institution that does not reflect our history, culture, or aspirations.
Historically, the diverse ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt resisted the incursions of Usman Dan Fodio’s jihadists.
While Hausaland fell under the control of Dan Fodio’s forces in the early 1800s, the Middle Belt remained largely unconquered, preserving its distinct identity and sovereignty.
The imposition of the indirect rule system by the British colonial administration altered this dynamic.
By forcefully placing our autonomous communities under the control of Emirate systems—most notably the Sokoto Caliphate—the colonial authorities created an artificial hierarchy that granted undue privilege and influence to Fulani-dominated Emirates over the indigenous peoples of the Middle Belt and beyond.
More than six decades after the end of colonial rule, it is unacceptable for any traditional authority to be elevated above others, particularly in a democratic Nigeria that champions equality, justice, and federal character.
Our Position
In light of the above, the Middle Belt Forum hereby states emphatically that :
i) If the Senate passes this bill with the contentious clause and it is assented to by the President, we will mobilise all ethnic nationalities across the Middle Belt to boycott participation in the Council.
ii) Traditional rulers of the Middle Belt will neither recognise nor attend meetings of a Council whose leadership is permanently skewed in favour of a non-indigenous, religiously aligned and a lesser monarch status to our traditional rulers.
iii) We shall, in accordance with constitutional liberties, form our own autonomous Council of Middle Belt Traditional Rulers, which shall reflect the historical, cultural, and moral values of our people.
The Path Forward :
To preserve national unity, equity, and fairness, we propose the following :
(a) The Chairmanship of the Council should be rotational. It should cut across all geo-political zones or ethnic blocs.
(b) It should also be tenure-based in a manner that gives all traditional rulers and their peoples a sense of belonging and dignity.
(c) Another alternative is for traditional rulers themselves to democratically choose their chairperson(s) through a transparent, inclusive process that reflects Nigeria’s pluralism.
(d) Such a Council must reflect the values of equality, justice, and historical truth.
Conclusion.
The Middle Belt Forum stands firm in its belief that true national cohesion can only be achieved through fairness, mutual respect, and recognition of our rich historical diversities.
Any attempt to impose a permanent religious figurehead on a national institution of traditional rulers is a violation of Nigeria’s secular character, cultural heritage, and federal structure. We shall resist it using every lawful and democratic means available to us.
The Chairman Jos North local government Traditional Council,the Ujah of Anaguta Dr. Johnson Magaji has promise to organize football competition in Plateau before the end of the year 2025.
As the game of football has been identified as means or vehicle for unification and fostering unity especially among the youths who are mostly targeted in the subversion and destruction of peace when they are left idle.
The Ujah Anaguta Dr. Johnson Magaji disclosed this in his speech during the finals 5th editions of Peace, Unity and Scouting football tournament organised by Operation Save Haven / 3Div, played at the Polo Field in Jos 26th July 2025.
The Royal Father who is the Chairman of the occasion hailed OPSH/ 3Div for their Consistent in organizing Spot tournament back to back 5th times with the moves in fostering peaceful Coexistence in the state.
Stressed that the Peace Tournament does not only promote peace, but enforced peace.
The HRH used the occasion to convene governor Caleb Mutfwang heartfelt appreciation to the Goc 3 Div who doubled as the commander operation Save Haven(OPSH), Maj.Gen.E.F Oyinlola who made the “Peace Tournament” possible .
“On behalf of our able governor, Caleb Mutfwang we say thank you to the Goc 3 Div and OPSH, and all the securities in Nigeria, that they are doing excellently well,and deserve our unalloyed supports”.
Condemned those castigating the security for no reason ,said it’s a ploy to demoralize them instead of encouragement.
” I am challenge, by the Grace of God, before the end of this year 2025 ,there would be another competition,but this time is going to be “Ujah Anaguta Peace Tournament”.He maintained.
Speaking earlier in his goodwill message the Goc 3 Div ,Major General EF Oyinlola charged all to be involve in security issues which should not be left alone to the conventional security .
The Goc 3Div represented by the Chief of staff Major General Agi said the task of restoring peace is not just the responsibility of the security agencies but the collective responsibility of every one of us. We must never relent in our sustained efforts towards maintaining the peace within the JOA and by extension Nigeria.
Further add that I am aware different teams from different communities have played at different levels and we are about to witness the finals. Unlike violence that has no winner and loser, one thing that is sure in sports is that, there is always a winner.
This is because sports is all about camaraderie, affection, team spirit, community of interest, love for one another, and comradeship. Play together, win and lose together and still celebrate together. This will no doubt help in promoting unity in
diversity among the various groups.
Until recently, we have achieved quite a good period of relative peace devoid of violence in the Joint Operations Area. This is the manifestation of your collective resolve to live in peace by putting the past behind
What we are witnessing today is very significant in enhancing peaceful co-existence among the diverse ethno-religious and socio-cultural groups across Operation SAFE HAVEN Joint Operations Area (JOA).
At the end of the final tournament between Bassa local government and Shendam LG where Shendam carried the cup and Bassa local government come second runner.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has extended his warm felicitations to Former Governor of Plateau State, Distinguished Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye, on the joyous occasion of his 68th birthday.
The statement is contained in a press statement dated 27th July 2025 signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Caleb Mutfwang Dr. Gyang Bere and made available to “Gnews”electronically in Jos .
Governor Mutfwang described Senator Dariye as a seasoned politician, a renowned entrepreneur, and an accomplished public servant whose unwavering dedication to the ideals of unity, peace, and development has remained the guiding principle of his life.
In a press statement, the Governor recalled Senator Dariye’s impactful and selfless service to the people of Plateau State, both as Governor and as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, emphasizing that his legacy continues to inspire generations and remains carved in the hearts of the citizens.
He noted that Senator Dariye distinguished himself through principled leadership, legislative excellence, and courageous advocacy for the rights and aspirations of his constituents by consistently upholding democratic ideals and serving with honour, integrity, and commitment to the common good.
Governor Mutfwang further applauded Senator Dariye’s enduring efforts in building bridges of unity, promoting peace, and advancing an inclusive, people-centered leadership that transcends political, ethnic, and religious boundaries, qualities that reflect the enduring Plateau spirit of resilience, excellence and brotherhood.
On behalf of the government and the good people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang prayed for continued good health, renewed strength, and divine wisdom for Senator Dariye as he continues to offer guidance to the younger generation and render service to God and humanity.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, IHVN, and Professor Public Health, School of Medicine Maryland University, Baltimore, USA, Patrick Dakum, heartily felicitate Senator Dr. Joshua Chibi Dariye, on the occasion of his 68th BIRTH anniversary.
Dakum eulogized Dariye aka Head Boy for his numerous contributions to humanity, democracy and leadership in Plateau and the country at large.
This is contained in a press statement issued by Professor Dakum, dated 27th July 2025 signed by his Media Consultant Mr Shabul Mazadu and made available to “Gnews” electronically in Jos, plateau State Capital.
The former Commissioner of Information and Health under the Reengineering Administration of Dariye, commended the Khawung Mushere for lasting legacies he left behind in the health, education and other critical sectors, adding that he was a progeny of Joseph Dechi Gomwalk in governance.
Dakum pointed out some of achievements to include among others; General Hospitals Tunkus in Mikang LGA, Angware in Jos East LGA and Dengi in Kanam LGA, College of Agriculture Garkawa, College of Arts and Remedial Studies Kurgwi and Plateau State University Bokkos, likewise increase of HND courses in Plateau State Polytechnic from 2 – 14, relocation of College of Education Gindiri from its temporary to permanent site, upgraded Colleges of Health Zawan’s and Pankshin’s certificates to national standards and so many others which have ingredients of human development index the basic necessities of good governance.
He added that Dariye is a philanthropist of the finest order, lover of God and an epitome of resilience, doggedness and ingenuity in goal getting; and someone who never faints in battle.
Dakum wishes Dariye, divine health, knowledge, wisdom and understanding; and above all more progressive and prosperous years ahead.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, IHVN, and Professor Public Health, School of Medicine Maryland University, Baltimore, USA, Patrick Dakum, heartily felicitate Senator Dr. Joshua Chibi Dariye, on the occasion of his 68th BIRTH anniversary.
Dakum eulogized Dariye aka Head Boy for his numerous contributions to humanity, democracy and leadership in Plateau and the country at large.
This is contained in a press statement issued by Professor Dakum, dated 27th July 2025 signed by his Media Consultant Mr Shabul Mazadu and made available to “Gnews” electronically in Jos, plateau State Capital.
The former Commissioner of Information and Health under the Reengineering Administration of Dariye, commended the Khawung Mushere for lasting legacies he left behind in the health, education and other critical sectors, adding that he was a progeny of Joseph Dechi Gomwalk in governance.
Dakum pointed out some of achievements to include among others; General Hospitals Tunkus in Mikang LGA, Angware in Jos East LGA and Dengi in Kanam LGA, College of Agriculture Garkawa, College of Arts and Remedial Studies Kurgwi and Plateau State University Bokkos, likewise increase of HND courses in Plateau State Polytechnic from 2 – 14, relocation of College of Education Gindiri from its temporary to permanent site, upgraded Colleges of Health Zawan’s and Pankshin’s certificates to national standards and so many others which have ingredients of human development index the basic necessities of good governance.
He added that Dariye is a philanthropist of the finest order, lover of God and an epitome of resilience, doggedness and ingenuity in goal getting; and someone who never faints in battle.
Dakum wishes Dariye, divine health, knowledge, wisdom and understanding; and above all more progressive and prosperous years ahead.
The Plateau State Monthly Environmental Sanitation for the month of July 2025 took dramatic turn as the Agency weighed sledged hammer against habitual defaulters, as the agency Closed down not fewer than (2) filling stations who were selling fuel during period of environmental sanitation exercise.
The Director General (DG),of PEPSA,Hon. Samuel Dapiya said the decision to apply stiffer penalty on defaulters is to serve as deterrent to those who may further want to take PEPSA ,and the state government for a ride and unserious.
The DG Plateau Environmental Sanitation Protection Agency PEPSA ,Hon. Dapiya Stated this today 26th July 2025 in an interview with journalists during monitoring exercise of this month July environmental sanitation.
The affected Filling Stations sealed during the monitoring exercise when they were expected to be at their respective homes clearing their surroundings Includs : Infinite Plus filling station and Kasian Oil and Gas all located Along Lamingo Road in the state.
The affected Stations management however swung into actions and pay undisclosed amount of fined after Pleaded guilty before Hon. Mrs Debra Nyam led Mobile court.
Some individuals who were also convicted of the same offence were also made to couch out fined ranging from One Thousand Naira and above before they were left of the hook.
The areas covered by the inspection by management of PEPSA ,Includs, British American, Lamingo Road, Zaria Terrace off Apata street and Tuduwa.
Earlier in an interview, the PEPSA Director General Hon. Samuel Dapiya hailed the success of this month exercise following the level of compliance of the people, said although people and business premises were found wanting , but sanctioned accordingly to serve as deterrent.
Hon.Samuel said the active projects of Keeping plateau clean is a collective one,but admitted that though the agency is not there yet ,as they are moving from point A-B in the right direction.
However appealed to the citizens of Plateau to bear with the government as the action is not intentional, promise when the goal is achieved, environmental Sanitation will be done with no enforcement.
Commend the Executive Governor of plateau State, barrister Caleb Mutfwang for his investment on the issue of environmental Sanitation.
On the proposed flooding in the state predicated by Nimet ,he disclosed that the core mandate of PEPSA is to embark on advocacy using the media in addressing the issue of proposed flooding in the state.
Further disclosed that so far, the agency has entered retainer ship with some media houses, however appealed to other stations to make their media houses accessable to the agency for the benefits of the citizens of Plateau state.Hon.Dapiya Maintained.
The Plateau State Monthly Environmental Sanitation for the month of July 2025 took dramatic turn as the Agency weighed sledged hammer against habitual defaulters, as the agency Closed down not fewer than (2) filling stations who were selling fuel during period of environmental sanitation exercise.
The Director General (DG),of PEPSA,Hon. Samuel Dapiya said the decision to apply stiffer penalty on defaulters is to serve as deterrent to those who may further want to take PEPSA ,and the state government for a ride and unserious.
The DG Plateau Environmental Sanitation Protection Agency PEPSA ,Hon. Dapiya Stated this today 26th July 2025 in an interview with journalists during monitoring exercise of this month July environmental sanitation.
The affected Filling Stations sealed during the monitoring exercise when they were expected to be at their respective homes clearing their surroundings Includs : Infinite Plus filling station and Kasian Oil and Gas all located Along Lamingo Road in the state.
The affected Stations management however swung into actions and pay undisclosed amount of fined after Pleaded guilty before Hon. Mrs Debra Nyam led Mobile court.
Some individuals who were also convicted of the same offence were also made to couch out fined ranging from One Thousand Naira and above before they were left of the hook.
The areas covered by the inspection by management of PEPSA ,Includs, British American, Lamingo Road, Zaria Terrace off Apata street and Tuduwa.
Earlier in an interview, the PEPSA Director General Hon. Samuel Dapiya hailed the success of this month exercise following the level of compliance of the people, said although people and business premises were found wanting , but sanctioned accordingly to serve as deterrent.
Hon.Samuel said the active projects of Keeping plateau clean is a collective one,but admitted that though the agency is not there yet ,as they are moving from point A-B in the right direction.
However appealed to the citizens of Plateau to bear with the government as the action is not intentional, promise when the goal is achieved, environmental Sanitation will be done with no enforcement.
Commend the Executive Governor of plateau State, barrister Caleb Mutfwang for his investment on the issue of environmental Sanitation.
On the proposed flooding in the state predicated by Nimet ,he disclosed that the core mandate of PEPSA is to embark on advocacy using the media in addressing the issue of proposed flooding in the state.
Further disclosed that so far, the agency has entered retainer ship with some media houses, however appealed to other stations to make their media houses accessable to the agency for the benefits of the citizens of Plateau state.Hon.Dapiya Maintained.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Professor Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, an eminent political scientist, erudite scholar, and President of the Institute of Governance and Social Research (IGSR), Jos, who departed this life on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the age of 77.
In a condolence message, Governor Mutfwang described the late Professor Elaigwu as “a towering intellectual, prolific author, and patriotic Nigerian whose legacy in nation-building, federalism, and democratic governance remains indelible.”
He noted that Professor Elaigwu’s lifelong dedication to public scholarship and national service is reflected in the many strategic roles he held, including Director-General and Chief Executive of the National Council on Intergovernmental Relations; Chairman, Board of Trustees of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR); Member of the Presidential Advisory Committee; and Director at the New Nigerian Development Company, among others.
The Governor noted that through his groundbreaking research, influential writings, and far-reaching public engagements, Prof. Elaigwu championed the ideals of democratic inclusion, federal cohesion, and good governance, values that continue to shape academic discourse and public policy in Nigeria and beyond.
Governor Mutfwang described the loss as a deep vacuum, not just for Plateau State but for the nation at large, saying “Nigeria has lost a rare gem, an intellectual compass, and a bridge-builder whose works will continue to inspire and guide generations to come.”
On behalf of the government and people of Plateau State, the Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Elaigwu family, the IGSR community, and all who were touched and inspired by his impactful life and scholarship.
Governor Mutfwang prayed for the peaceful repose of Professor Elaigwu’s soul and asked that God grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
The Executive Governor of plateau state who doubled as visitor to Plateau State University, Bokkos, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang has approved the appointment of Professor Gaya Shadrach Best as the (6th), Substantive Vice Chancellor of the plateau state University, Bokkos.
The appointment of Professor Best is based on strong recommendation by the Governing Council of the University.
The appointment is Contained in a circular from the office of the registrar of the University, Captioned “Public Announcement “dated 24th July 2025 signed by Yakubu Ayuba Secretary to the Council and made available to “Gnews” electronically.
The circular further state that the appointment of the substantive VC is for a single tenure of (5),years from the 24th July 2025.
Until his recent appointment, Professor Best is a renowned Scholar and professor of international relations and Peace Building, with over (33), years of teaching and research in the University.
Best also served as Secretary to the Government of Plateau State between 2011-2015 ,and has been engaged in conflict resolution and peace building ventures at the national and international levels.
He is married to Professor Kachallom Shadrach Best bless with (4), Children.
The late professor Janet Punyit Plang has been described as embodiment of humility, diligent , Commitment and adviser .
As her contribution particularly in her place of work, University of jos where she worked until her demise specifically department of Sociology reflects back on her 25 years with the University and Department of Sociology where she demonstrated aforementioned mentioned traits without blemished.
These where the Tributes showered on late Professor Janet Punyit Plang during the Valedictory Session and Service of Song held in her honour at the Senate Chamber of the University of Jos and Service of Song organized by the Plateau State Government held at the Chapel of Grace Old Government House seprately on Wednesday 23rd 2025.
The well attended Valedictory Session and Service of Song brought together virtually all members of the Senate of the University ,colleagues ,family members, husband to the deceased professor Sen.Dike Plang and other family members too numerous to mention.
At the Valedictory Session, which was the Institution ritual,commenced with the taking of possession by the Senate members as they filed Into the Hall, venue of for the event with their academic regalia .
As normal academic tradition the Senate formalized the Valedictory Session to allow non Senate Members to participate in the session by moving a motion which was seconded.
In their separate tributes to Professor Janet Punyit Plang, the late Professor Janet’s Departmental colleagues in sociology department ,reflects on the contribution of Janet Punyit 25 years of her meritorious service to the University before her demise.
They said in those years, Prof. Mrs Plang did not only serve as lecturer ,but as an adviser, mentor and mother to countless students of the University who availed themselves to her service.
She contributed in a great deal to researches as it relates to her field of specialization on Gender issues , and has consistently push beyond boundaries.
Her students who is now a colleague revealed that the late prof.Punyit was one time his level coordinator, following by her academic prowess,we the colleagues are remembering her for Commitment for guiding most us through academic journey.
“Offering not just advise,but her door is always open to all that are willing.”
“As first female to occupy the Head of the Department (HOD), of Department of Sociology from 2017/21 she was elected twice for the position and she led with mission and vision”.
She always prioritize the well being of the department,add that her legacy is not just the paper she had published, courses she taught but the lives she have shaped.
In another tribute in her honour ,professor Janet Punyit Plang , was described as protector of students especially the female gender from any form of abuse from any angle.
Political associate to the husband Professor Diket Plang ,in his tribute said he had course to have a very pleasant encounter with the late Punyit during the recent 2023 political electioneering campaign in the state ,how she always ensure we take something (food) before continuing our campaign so that we have enough strength.
It always left me to wonder how she always combine her class room work as lecturer with political activities.
However encourage all, that death is a necessary end to all mortal that would come when it will come , encouraged the family to take heart and bear the irreplaceable loss.
The husband of the deceased Senator Diket in his remark admitted that death has robbed him the treasure of his life .
The senator explained the immense contributions of his wife Professor Janet to his political journey from counselor to Chairman, House of Assembly Member and now to Senator Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Senator Plang further explained that all these political journey, wouldn’t have been possible without the constant support of his late wife Professor Punyit.
Said he has take solace on God to push him alone ,describing the period as a very difficult one in his existence.
Thank the University Senate for deeming it necessary to honour their colleagues even in death.
Earlier in her biography revealed Professor Janet Punyit Plang was born in Panyam in Mangu local government of Plateau state in 1970.
Her lives was defined with deep Scholarship and Commitment .She attended ABU Staff School, Zaria and Girls Science School Ginderi,in Plateau state.
She then proceeded to ABU for her degree program where she graduated from the department of Sociology and M.SC in Sociology in 1999 and M.sc in Social Works in 2007.
Late Prof.Janet joined the service of the University 10th January 1995 as graduate Assistant and rose to the rank of Professor In 2022,and her area of specialization is Gender studies.
At the Chapel of Grace Church Old Government House, where the Service of Song was Organized in honour of late Professor Janet by the Plateau state government,the officiating reverend who doubled as the reverend in Yan Trailer Church admonished all to strive and make use of any opportunity opened to us.
The Rev. Said Professor Janet Plang cashed on every opportunities that come her way , which explain while she achieved a lot even with her short stay on earth.
Reading from the Book of Genesis Chapter 1 Vs1-3 he said is not how long you live, but what impact have you made and the live you impacted on.
Added with the testimonies from people on the live of Janet , it’s clear she leaves right with God,and God decides to call her home to rest on “His Bossom” where there would not be sorrow, non stress as the case may be.
Challenged all who are still in doubt of whether they will make heaven , that is not late to make an amend to make their way right with God before it’s too late.
Many dignitaries attended the Service of Song Including representative from the state Government.
The Former committee member of Presidential Campaign Council in 2023 General Elections, Hon. Ishaya Itse has congratulates the Former Minister on Humanitarian Affairs and Deserters Management Professor Nentawe Yilwada over his election as National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress APC,
The election of Prof.Nentawe did not come as a surprise considering his wealth of experience as a lecturer, INEC Commissioner in Benue State, Governorship Candidate under APC platform in 2023 General Elections.
The APC family have taken the right steps in the right direction by giving the National Chairman position to a vibrant, educated , articulate without no doubt will bring his past experience garnered as INEC boss in Benue State to bear in his new position as the party National Chairman.
I want to use this congratulatory message to advise the New National Chairman of our great party APC ,to leverage on these real opportunity to write his name on Gold and ensure that the party sweep all futures election in the country from counselors to presidential election.
The new Chairman should also use his tenure to bring all the aggrieved members of the party to round table settlement for amicable resolution for the continues survival of the party at all levels.
Ones again congratulates.
Signed : Hon.Ishaya Itse
Former Member 2023 Presidential Committee Campaign Council.
The people of Mangar, at home and in diaspora, thrown it’s weight behind the aspiration of Sen. Dr. J. C. Dariye’s bid for the position of National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress.
The support on the aspirations of Chief Joshua Dariye’s for APC National Chairman of APC is contained in a statement dated 23rd July 2025 sighed by Adame Micah Maram National Secretary M.D.C.A, on behalf of the president of the body ,Maju Timothy David National President, M.C.D.A. and made available to “Gnews”i electronically n Jos.
According to the statement,Sen.Dariye is tested and trusted leader, experience and visionary whose track record speaks volume of his person.
A governor from 1999-2007, and a Senator from 2011-2019, whose experience and visionary leadership skills is needed to reposition the Party for victory at all levels of elections across the nation.
A unifier, a quality that make his personality and presence contagious in the political space. A grassroot politician who naturally attracts crowd due to his experience, academic credentials, philanthropic and peace-building quality.
We therefore call on all delegates and opinion leaders to consider the candidacy of Sen. Dr. J. C. Dariye, a name which is synonymous to victory, to help reposition the Party that everyone will be proud of.
Sen. Dr. J. C. Dariye, Still, Our Dependable Choice for National Chairman, All Progressive Congress.
Association under the auspices of the “Mushere Chiefdom Development Association Abuja and Environs” has thrown its weight behind Senator Joshua Dariye’s bid for the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairmanship position.
The unalloyed support by the above mentioned association is contained a press statement dated 22nd July 2025 signed by it Chairman, Amos Dalek and Miskakham Jap Mushere respectively and made available to this medium electronically in Jos.
The association believes that with Senator Dariye’s leadership, the party can thrive in 2027, citing his tested and trusted track record as a key asset.
Why Senator Dariye?
Experience :
Senator Dariye has accumulated decades of experience in governance, having served as Governor of Plateau State from 1999 to 2007 and later as Senator representing Plateau Central from 2011 to 2019.
Leadership :
He is known for his exceptional leadership style, which has earned him the nickname *”Head Boy”.
Visionary :
Senator Dariye is seen as a visionary leader who can reposition the party for success, not just in Plateau State but across the nation.
Unifying Figure :
His leadership style is believed to be inclusive, making him a potential unifying figure for the party.
Senator Dariye’s candidacy has garnered support from various groups, including the CPC Forum, which described him as a seasoned administrator, academic, philanthropist, peace-builder, and grassroots politician.
The Mushere Chiefdom Development Association’s endorsement of Senator Dariye’s candidacy underscores his growing support base within the party.
As the APC navigates its internal dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections, Senator Dariye’s experience and leadership credentials make him a formidable contender for the National Chairmanship position.
When Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang took over the reins of leadership in Plateau State, many knew change was inevitable but few could have imagined the sweeping transformation unfolding in the transport sector today.
With the fuel subsidy removal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration that created abnormality in the transportation industry, the Plateau State Governor refused to sit on his hands.
Instead, he rolled up his sleeves, thought outside the box, and took the bull by the horns.
One of his earliest interventions, the introduction of the Metro Bus Service, quickly won the hearts of Plateau citizens.
With fares as low as ₦200, the buses became a lifeline, especially for workers, students, traders, and everyday hustlers trying to make ends meet.
In quick succession, additional buses were injected into the system based on public demands, crisscrossing more routes and bridging the mobility gap.
The revival and reorganization of the Plateau Express Service also saw more vehicles hitting the roads, connecting not just local government areas within the state but also stretching out to other parts of the federation.
Today, these buses are so well-patronized that demand often outstrips supply, a testament to how deeply the people have embraced them, saving up to N40,000 per individual monthly.
Yet, like a farmer who does not rest after planting maize but goes ahead to sow yams as well, Governor Mutfwang was not done.
The rail shuttle between Jos and Bukuru, a visionary masterstroke that has added steam to the ongoing transportation revolution, commenced operations officially last week.
At just ₦200 per trip, this service has become an instant hit, offering residents a safe, clean, affordable, and time-saving alternative to the ever-congested roads.
The economic benefits are already speaking volumes. For many, the train has cut down commuting costs drastically, money saved is money earned.
With the rising cost of fuel, the train service is like water to a thirsty land, relieving pressure on household incomes and boosting productivity across sectors.
On the social front, the train is connecting the Jos-Bukuru axis closer together.
Residents now wake up with less anxiety about getting to their places of work, schools, and markets.
Punctuality has improved, and time once wasted in traffic jams is now being used for more meaningful engagements.
It is often said that “when the rhythm of the drum changes, the dancer must adjust his steps.”
The people of Plateau have adjusted, joyfully to this new rhythm set by Mutfwang’s transportation blueprint.
Convenience, too, has been taken to new heights. Trains, unlike buses or cars, run on a dedicated track.
No holdups, no bottlenecks, and no roadside drama. The shuttle runs on schedule, dependable as the sunrise.
Commuters are now enjoying their rides in a relaxed, safe atmosphere, with scenic views that remind us all why Plateau remains the Home of Peace and Tourism.
Speaking of tourism, the reintroduction of the rail system opens up a fresh corridor for adventure seekers and visitors to explore Jos and its environs with ease.
With consistent investment, the rail line could soon connect more tourist hotspots. As the saying goes, “when the road is good, the journey becomes a pleasure.”
In this case, the train ride is already turning into an experience.
The environmental impact is another feather in the administration’s cap.
In an age where carbon emissions are a global concern, the shift to rail transport helps reduce vehicular congestion and air pollution. It is a strategic, future-looking move that aligns Plateau State with modern sustainability goals.
Through all of this, one truth has become glaring: Governor Caleb Mutfwang is a man of action, not empty words.
He understands that governance is not about making noise but about making positive impact on the people.
In revamping the transportation sector, he has not only provided physical movement for the people but also stirred hope, restored dignity, and strengthened the social contract between the government and the citizens.
If truly “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” then Plateau State has already taken giant strides under this administration.
With each passing day, the state is inching closer to a fully integrated, efficient, and people-focused transportation system.
Indeed, Governor Mutfwang is not just moving people, he is moving Plateau forward. And if the early signs are anything to go by, the rail shuttle is only the beginning of even greater things to come.
Gyang Bere
Is the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State
When Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang took over the reins of leadership in Plateau State, many knew change was inevitable but few could have imagined the sweeping transformation unfolding in the transport sector today.
With the fuel subsidy removal by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration that created abnormality in the transportation industry, the Plateau State Governor refused to sit on his hands.
Instead, he rolled up his sleeves, thought outside the box, and took the bull by the horns.
One of his earliest interventions, the introduction of the Metro Bus Service, quickly won the hearts of Plateau citizens.
With fares as low as ₦200, the buses became a lifeline, especially for workers, students, traders, and everyday hustlers trying to make ends meet.
In quick succession, additional buses were injected into the system based on public demands, crisscrossing more routes and bridging the mobility gap.
The revival and reorganization of the Plateau Express Service also saw more vehicles hitting the roads, connecting not just local government areas within the state but also stretching out to other parts of the federation.
Today, these buses are so well-patronized that demand often outstrips supply, a testament to how deeply the people have embraced them, saving up to N40,000 per individual monthly.
Yet, like a farmer who does not rest after planting maize but goes ahead to sow yams as well, Governor Mutfwang was not done.
The rail shuttle between Jos and Bukuru, a visionary masterstroke that has added steam to the ongoing transportation revolution, commenced operations officially last week.
At just ₦200 per trip, this service has become an instant hit, offering residents a safe, clean, affordable, and time-saving alternative to the ever-congested roads.
The economic benefits are already speaking volumes. For many, the train has cut down commuting costs drastically, money saved is money earned.
With the rising cost of fuel, the train service is like water to a thirsty land, relieving pressure on household incomes and boosting productivity across sectors.
On the social front, the train is connecting the Jos-Bukuru axis closer together.
Residents now wake up with less anxiety about getting to their places of work, schools, and markets.
Punctuality has improved, and time once wasted in traffic jams is now being used for more meaningful engagements.
It is often said that “when the rhythm of the drum changes, the dancer must adjust his steps.”
The people of Plateau have adjusted, joyfully to this new rhythm set by Mutfwang’s transportation blueprint.
Convenience, too, has been taken to new heights. Trains, unlike buses or cars, run on a dedicated track.
No holdups, no bottlenecks, and no roadside drama. The shuttle runs on schedule, dependable as the sunrise.
Commuters are now enjoying their rides in a relaxed, safe atmosphere, with scenic views that remind us all why Plateau remains the Home of Peace and Tourism.
Speaking of tourism, the reintroduction of the rail system opens up a fresh corridor for adventure seekers and visitors to explore Jos and its environs with ease.
With consistent investment, the rail line could soon connect more tourist hotspots. As the saying goes, “when the road is good, the journey becomes a pleasure.”
In this case, the train ride is already turning into an experience.
The environmental impact is another feather in the administration’s cap.
In an age where carbon emissions are a global concern, the shift to rail transport helps reduce vehicular congestion and air pollution. It is a strategic, future-looking move that aligns Plateau State with modern sustainability goals.
Through all of this, one truth has become glaring: Governor Caleb Mutfwang is a man of action, not empty words.
He understands that governance is not about making noise but about making positive impact on the people.
In revamping the transportation sector, he has not only provided physical movement for the people but also stirred hope, restored dignity, and strengthened the social contract between the government and the citizens.
If truly “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” then Plateau State has already taken giant strides under this administration.
With each passing day, the state is inching closer to a fully integrated, efficient, and people-focused transportation system.
Indeed, Governor Mutfwang is not just moving people, he is moving Plateau forward. And if the early signs are anything to go by, the rail shuttle is only the beginning of even greater things to come.
Gyang Bere
Is the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State
Since the dramatic and controversial resignation of H.E. Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje as National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), there seems to be multiple schemings and conspiracy theories as well as agitations and intense lobbying for the Party’s top job by various individuals and interest groups.
A position which since the merger that birthed the APC has been the preserve of former Governors ranging from Bisi Akande former Gov of then Oyo State to John Oyegun and to Adam’s Oshomole both former Governors of Edo State to Mai Mala Buni current Governor of Yobe State to Abdullahi Adamu former Gov of Nasarawa State and Abdullahi Ganduje former Gov of Kano State.
While that seems to be the unwritten rule in the Party, the North Central geological Zone which appears to have a sense of entitlement over the position following the removal of Sen. Abdullahi Adamu barely one and a half years into his tenure, has the most interested parties in the job.
Top on the list of interested candidates are two former Governors of Plateau State Sen. Joshua Chibi Dariye and Sen. Simon Lalong, a former Gov of Benue State Sen. George Akume, Sen. Tanko Almakura, former Gov of Nasarawa State as well as his two term Deputy, Silas Agara.
And of recent non former Govs whose names have been mentioned in the struggle for the top job is the current serving Deputy National Secretary of the APC, Barr Festus Fuanter, the current Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Prof Nentawe Yilwada and Chief Amos Gizo the current Chairman of the Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority.
In all this jostling, Plateau State seems to have the most interested individuals jostling for the top job and this may not be unconnected with the insinuations that all the APC Govs in the North Central with the exception of Plateau State (which is PDP) have since declined the emergence of the Party Chairman from their States for very obvious reasons.
But in all this, what are the chances of each of the candidates and what does it portend for the future of the Party in Plataeu State? To understand this insightful question, it is important to have a brief understanding of the background and chances of each of the candidates.
First, Sen. Joshua Dariye, a one time Governor of Plateau State may be said to be qualified going by the preference of the Progressive Governors Forum to maintain status quo where the National Chairman has to be a former Governor.
He is also known to be a close ally of the President as both of them served as Governors at about the same period. But what might be a minus against him is that he was not a part of any of the Parties that participated in the legacy merger.
As for Senators Simon Bako Lalong and George Akume, while they are both eminently qualified for the position by all measures, they both appear to be lackadaisical about their ambitions as both have tersely denounce the insinuations of their desires knowing the implications of throwing away what they have for what is so vulnerable and uncertain.
The other former Governor in the mix is Sen. Umaru Tanko Almakura who besides being a former Governor of Nasarawa State is also a former Senator who can conveniently be said to be amongst those that are eminently qualified for the position of the National Chairman as he was a founding member of the CPC, a Party that was in the forefront of the merger that formed the APC.
He contested keenly with former Gov Abdullahi Adamu who subsequently clinched the position in the 2022 convention.
His weaknesses may however be in the area of his faith as the power that be are more disposed towards having a Christian National Chairman in order to maintain a seeming balance in anticipation of the possibility that the President considers running again on a Muslim-muslim ticket in 2027.
The other ‘former Governor’ who has been mentioned time without number in the race is Sen Tanko Almakura’s former Deputy His Excellency, His Excellency, Silas Agara who is currently the Director General of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE).
He is amongst those who can be said to be eminently qualified to hold the office having been a two time deputy Governor in the APC and also like his boss is from the CPC wing of the legacy merger.
Besides all that, he is one of the few who is personally known to the President which explains why he was trusted with the responsibility of managing the Independent Campaign Council (ICC) which was the President plan B’’ Campaign Council.
Though he has not expressed interest, his young age and position of responsibilities held in the past will definitely be a plus for him.
As for all the non former Governors in the race, it is important to note that if the conspiracy and desires of the Progressives Governors Forum is anything to go by, all of them would certainly not be qualified.
Be that as it may, amongst the non former Governors jostling for the position is Chief Amos Gizo who obviously is the oldest amongst the non former Governors.
He is a journalist and a seasoned politician who aspired for the Governorship of Plateau State in 2023 but did not join in the race when it mattered the most.
He was said to have supported another Party candidate against his Party’s but was known to have worked assiduously for the emergence of the present President as the President knows him personally.
This knowledge of him and his political antecedents may make or mar his chances for consideration.
Next in the list of the non former Governors in the race is Barr Festus Fuanter, the present Deputy National Secretary of the APC and the current Chairman of Council of the National Teachers Institute, Kaduna.
A former State cabinet member of the Governor Simon Bako Lalong administration, he was elected to the position of the DNS during the 2022 Convention that brought in the Sen Abdullahi Adamu as National Chairman.
As the number five in the hierarchy of the National Working Committee of the Party and who also served as an Acting National Secretary when Chief Iyiola Omisore resigned, he is seen as one of the courageous, forthright and trustworthy member of the NWC.
If considered, he could bring stability in the Party as he can be a likely bridge between the old and new generation members of the Party.
The most interesting and most intriguing of all the names jostling for the position of the National Chairman of the Party is the current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Nentawe Yilwada who was also the Party’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 election.
Two questions that would come to a discerning mind is, one is the President his Principal aware of his ambition and two did he get the go ahead to get involved in this imbroglio?
If the President is not aware, this could spark off insubordination and ungratefulness. But if he is aware, the the innuendoes of the conspiracy theory might be right.
As the Minister of a super grade ‘A’ Ministry, it is very curious why he would choose to be in the race risking his cabinet position and the benefit which Plateau is bound to benefit from this very strategic Ministry.
One, however, wanders if the Hon. Minister is aware of the innuendos around his candidacy which has it that some high level conspiracies around the President are at play to ensure his removal as the Minister so as to allow for his replacement by a muslim nominee from Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State in order to correct the imbalance in appointments.
As it is, one can say he might have wittingly or unwittingly played into the hands of the conspirators by showing a desire for the National Chairmanship.
It still remains a wander to many why he would dump such a relevant Ministry for Plateau State that has been beleaguered by perennial displacement of people due to bloody attacks.
A position which Plateau never had in the past and waited nine months after the resignation of Lalong to get.
If Dr Nentawe’s ambition is at the behest of the President, then he is not being fair to Plateau State because if the replacement of the Minister is a Muslim, this will further create a bigger gulf between the majority Christians in the State and the APC.
Again, this would further hurt the political status of Dr Nentawe Yilwada in the State as he will be seen as a sell out.
His desire to be the National Chairman of the Party might just be a personal gain rather than the collective interest of Plateau.
For if he leaves the Ministerial position today, there is no guarantee that Plateau State will get back the same Humanitarian Ministry.
And if he gets it, are there guarantees that he will be allowed to serve his term in an office that many did not? If Dr Nentawe Yilwada takes this bait however, it will no doubt spell doom for the Party in Plateau State.
As the Party hold its National Executive Committee meeting on 24th July, 2024, it remains to be seen what all these will portends for Plateau State.
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Ms. Kachollom Daju, and the entire Daju family following the passing of their beloved son and brother, Mr. Mafeng Daju, who departed this life on July 16, 2025.
Governor Mutfwang, accompanied by the former Military Administrator of Plateau State, Rear Admiral Samuel Bitrus Atukum (rtd), paid a condolence visit to the Abuja residence of the deceased to commiserate with the bereaved family during their time of mourning.
Conveying his condolences, Governor Mutfwang described the passing of Mafeng Daju as both painful and deeply distressing.
“Death remains a debt that all mortals must pay,” the Governor said. “Yet, the loss of a loved one always leaves a void that no words can truly fill.
I pray that God, in His infinite mercy, will grant you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and bring divine comfort to your hearts.”
He encouraged the family to take solace in their faith and in the knowledge that God’s grace is ever sufficient, even in the darkest hours of grief.
Responding on behalf of the family, Ngo Simi Daju expressed profound appreciation to Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his thoughtful visit and comforting words.
“Your Excellency, your presence here today, alongside Rear Admiral Atukum, has brought immense consolation to our hearts.
Your compassion, humility, and personal touch continue to endear you not only to the Daju family but also to the people of Plateau State,” she said.
She further noted that the Governor’s visit was a source of strength and a testament to his enduring empathy and humaneness, especially during moments of sorrow.
Sequel to tussle over position of Chairmanship of African Democratic Congress(ADC), Plateau state chapter,”Gnews”has digged deep to unravel the authentic Chairman of the party in the state which has been raising dust in the state for the past few weeks.
As the alleged INEC list made was available by anonymous person to “Gnews” ,who did not want his name on online,can authoritatively report that the name of Ambassador Hannatu Gagara was “Conspicuously” written as Chairperson of ADC in plateau state.
The list of the party Chairmen made privy to this medium on Monday 21st July 2025 also contained the names of all the Chairmen of African Democratic Congress ADC in all the 36 states including FCT with their functional Phone numbers possibly for easy contact.
These new development will help to douse palpable tention the recent chairmanship position in the party Into the party has been engulfed with for some week now.
Alhaji Kabiru Gwamlar has been accused of sponsoring and carrying out same unwarranted, undeserve religious profiling against Governor Caleb Mutfwang for reasons best know now to him the move described as inhuman , frowned at by two religious Adherence both ,lslam and Christianity.
Mohammed however issued Stern warning to Alhaji Kabiru says “Enough is Enough”said no matter where ,and who is behind his unwarranted and UNGODLY religious Profiling against innocent Governor Mutfwang whose Performance in governance just Two years is clear to the citizens of Plateau and beyond.
The renowned Muslim Cleric Mohammad from Jos North local government of the state , stated this in a press statement dated 21st July 2025 personally signed by him and made available to “Gnews” electronically in Jos, plateau State.
The press statement read in part :
I find it perplexing and troubling that Alhaji Kabiru Gwamlar who describes himself as the Secretary of Plateau State Muslim Indigenes would author a petition laced with baseless insinuations, accusing His Excellency, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, of selective condemnation and favouritism in handling the persistent security challenges bedeviling our state.
Frankly, I do not know whether he was speaking for himself or under some imagined mandate. As a Muslim from Plateau, I am not aware of any forum that authorized him to write such a divisive and unfounded petition in the name of Muslims.
If indeed Alhaji Kabiru Gwamlar exists and was not conjured for the sole purpose of mischief, then he must be speaking from the deep recesses of personal bias.
Let it be known loud and clear that any attempt by the author of that disjointed and inflammatory submission to pitch indigenous Muslims against a Governor who has demonstrated fairness and compassion to all citizens is nothing but a misadventures .
He has become, wittingly or unwittingly, a courier of hatred, carrying a message that seeks to fragment the unity we all strive to uphold in Plateau state.
SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT
We say in our culture, “He who fetches firewood infested with ants should expect the lizards as guests.”
It is important that Alhaji Gwamlar takes responsibility for the consequences of spreading falsehoods wrapped in religious garb.
His freedom of expression does not grant him the license to peddle misinformation or misrepresent facts, especially on matters as sensitive as security and religion.
For the benefit of discerning Nigerians and peace-loving citizens of Plateau State, I wish to state the following :
I wholly condemn the recurring acts of terror and violence in rural communities across Plateau State, regardless of who the victims are.
The persistent insecurity in some parts of the state appears orchestrated by shadowy elements determined to sabotage Governor Mutfwang’s vision of building a peaceful and united Plateau. We must resist being pawns in the hands of such merchants of division.
No part of Plateau has been neglected by Governor Mutfwang. From his first day in office, the Governor has consistently shown empathy and concern for all communities, irrespective of tribe or religion.
Whether in Kanam, Wase, Mangu, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, or Langtang, his actions speak louder than words.
Governor Mutfwang is a leader of rare breed, full of empathy, fairness, and commitment to the welfare of all Plateau people.
In times of adversity, he has stood by victims and taken bold steps to restore hope. His response to the attacks in Kukawa and other affected areas is a testament to his compassion and proactive leadership.
The claim that 70 people were killed in the Kukawa incident is misleading. Verified records from Kanam Local Government indicate that 12 lives were regrettably lost.
Although this remains a tragedy, but far from the exaggerated figure peddled by Gwamlar. Some of the unidentified casualties are believed to be armed elements caught in a clash with their counterparts. Truth should not be sacrificed on the altar of propaganda.
Governor Mutfwang did not fold his arms when the Kukawa incident occurred. Upon receiving the report, he promptly directed his Chief Security Officer to work with the Local Government leadership to investigate the incident.
A press statement issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Information clarified the situation, leaving no room for the speculations and distortions peddled by mischief makers.
What Governor Mutfwang needs now is our collective support not needless profiling. He deserves to be encouraged and strengthened in his commitment to serve Plateau with sincerity and justice. It is unfair, and indeed uncharitable, to subject him to religious profiling for doing what is right.
7. As a proud Muslim in Plateau, I refuse to be misrepresented by elements who sow discord in the name of faith. We must not allow anyone to use religion as a smokescreen to advance narrow political or ethnic interests.
Governor Mutfwang has shown courage and integrity, and I stand with him not because of sentiment, but because of truth and justice.
However concluded with quote:
A wise man once said, “When the drumbeat changes, the dancer must adjust his steps.”
We must begin to dance to the rhythm of unity, not dissonance. Let us focus on the things that bind us, not those that tear us apart. Plateau is our home, and we must guard its peace jealously.
Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, has pledged full scholarship to the best graduating students of his constituency as part of his commitment to promoting academic excellence and investing in the future of the youth .
He made this known during the maiden Speech and Prize Giving Day, Magazine Launch, and Appeal Fundraising Ceremony and the furnishing of the Corps Members’ Lodge and Library of Government Secondary School Piapung, held at the school premises in Mikang Local Government Area.
Rt. Hon. Gapyil, who was the Chairman of the occasion, used the opportunity to encourage students to take their academics seriously, noting that education remains the most potent tool for empowerment and community development.
Represented by his Senior Legislative Aide Alfred Kungrap,the Speaker emphasized the importance of girl-child education, stressing that empowering the girl-child through education is critical to building a more inclusive and progressive society.
The Speaker commended management of the school and staff for their dedication and expressed delight at the strides the institution has made despite numerous challenges.
He assured them of his continuous support in providing the enabling environment for teaching and learning.
The event also featured a keynote address by Prof. Longmam Pienswang, who served as the Guest Speaker.
In his remark, Prof. Pienswang highlighted the role of education in transforming societies and called for collaboration among stakeholders to bridge infrastructural and learning gaps in rural schools.
The Executive Chairman of Mikang Local Government Council, Hon. Bernard Alkali, and the Long Piapung, His Royal Highness, Lawrence Nashel attended the occasion alongside other dignitaries from various walks of life.
In his welcome address, Principal of Government Secondary School Piapung, Habila Dakas, expressed gratitude to the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, other stakeholders for their presence and support.
He enumerated some of the school’s pressing needs and appeal for support from stakeholders and other illustrious sons and daughters.
Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of prizes to outstanding students, unveiling of the school magazine, cultural displays by students, and the appeal fund launch which received generous contributions from guests in support of the Corpers Lodge and school library project.
The Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has sworn in Hon. Kadi Badamsi Kabir Adam as a Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal, Jos.
The Governor charged the new judicial officer to uphold justice with utmost integrity, professionalism, and reverence for the rule of law.
Speaking during the swearing-in at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the appointment was purely merit-based, devoid of ethnic, religious, or political considerations.
“We have maintained merit as our guiding principle, and this appointment followed due diligence by the Judicial Service Commission and was duly affirmed by the National Judicial Council,” the Governor stated.
He described the judiciary as a vital pillar of democracy, currently grappling with a national crisis of confidence, and urged the newly sworn-in Khadi to be a shining light in restoring public trust in the justice system.
“You are assuming this sacred responsibility at a time when the judiciary is under intense public scrutiny.
I urge you to uphold fairness, equity, and impartiality. Let your judgments be guided by the fear of God and a clear conscience,” he charged.
Governor Mutfwang commended the Plateau State judiciary for maintaining a high standard of professionalism, adding that the state has largely been insulated from the negative perceptions affecting the judiciary in other parts of the country.
He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary, including addressing outstanding entitlements of retired judicial officers.
In his response after taking the Oath of Office, Hon. Kadi Badamsi Kabir Adam pledged to uphold the sacred trust reposed in him and to align his service with the values of justice, equity, and moral uprightness.
“I am deeply honored by this appointment. I pledge to discharge my duties with integrity and impartiality, to promote the welfare and dignity of all who appear before the Court, and to collaborate with all stakeholders in the pursuit of justice,” he declared.
The ceremony drew attendance from across the judiciary, executive, legislature, religious and traditional institutions, reflecting the significance of the occasion and the administration’s commitment to institutional integrity and good governance.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has formally presented the Staff of Office to His Royal Highness, Miskoom Ambassador Yahaya Kwande, as the 28th Long Kwo of Kwo Chiefdom, marking his elevation to a Second Class Traditional Ruler.
The historic event, which took place at RCM Primary School, Kwande in Qua’an-Pan Local Government Area, drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries, including former governors of the state, royal fathers from across the country, senior government officials, and thousands of jubilant indigenes, all united in celebration of a new era for the Kwo Chiefdom.
In his remarks, Governor Mutfwang described the occasion as both
“significant and deeply symbolic,” reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring the dignity and relevance of traditional institutions under the “Time is Now” agenda.
“This ceremony is more than a formality; it is a bold statement of our administration’s respect for the traditional institution as a cornerstone of social cohesion and cultural continuity,” the Governor declared.
The coronation was also a moment of healing and renewal for the Kwo people, following the peaceful transition of leadership after the passing of the late Long Kwo, His Royal Highness Miskoom Col. Fidelis Longtoe Atahiru (Rtd), in March 2024.
Governor Mutfwang lauded the kingmakers and the entire Kwo community for their maturity, dignity, and decorum in managing the succession process, describing it as “a model worthy of emulation.”
The Governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to fill vacant traditional stools across the state through inclusive, transparent, and culturally respectful processes.
He acknowledged ongoing chieftaincy disputes in some communities and called for reconciliation in the interest of peace and development.
“To our newly installed Royal Father, HRH Miskoom Ambassador Yahaya Kwande, your ascension is not only divinely ordained but a solemn call to service.
Lead with wisdom, fairness, and inclusiveness. Be a rallying point for unity, embracing all regardless of faith, ethnicity, or background,” he charged.
Governor Mutfwang further emphasized that the elevation of the Long Kwo stool to Second Class status affirms the cultural, historical, and strategic relevance of the Kwo Chiefdom within Plateau State’s traditional leadership structure.
Also speaking at the event, the representative of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs and the Long Goemai of Shendam, His Royal Majesty Miskoom Martins Shaldas III, described Kwo Chiefdom as a historical landmark in the Goemai nation.
He acknowledged its cultural uniqueness and enduring contributions to the heritage of the Goemai people.
In their separate goodwill messages, Chairman of Qua’an-Pan Local Government Council, Hon. Christopher Wallat, and the National President of the Goemai Unity and Development Organization Miskoom Albert Alkali hailed the seamless and divinely guided selection process that led to the emergence of Miskoom Ambassador Yahaya Kwande Kwalgurum II as the new Long Kwo.
In his acceptance speech, the 97-year-old monarch and elder statesman pledged to serve his people with humility and a sense of purpose.
“I accept this responsibility with deep gratitude and a solemn promise to lead as a servant, a bridge to the past, and a guide into a hopeful future,” he declared.
His Royal Highness Miskoom Yahaya Kwande, a distinguished diplomat and respected elder, expressed appreciation to Governor Mutfwang for the honor bestowed on him.
He assured the people of Kwo that he would deploy his vast experience, wisdom, and integrity in the service of the Chiefdom and Plateau State, ushering in a new era of unity and progress.
The Chairperson of ADC in plateau state Ambassador Mrs Hannatu Gagara has send Stern warning to one Hon. Samuel Pam Gyang to restrain from impersonating himself as the authentic Chairman of the party in the state , remind him the grievous consequences of intended actions
Hon. Amb. Mrs Hannatu Gagara who just returned from meeting convened including 36 state and FCT chairmen alongside the interim leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by the Former Senate President David Mark and others distinguished members of the National Working Committee (NWC).
The Chairperson of the party in state warning and advice to Samuel Pam Gyang is contained in press statement dated 17th July 2025 personally signed by the Chairperson , and made available to “Gnews” electronically.
She explained that Contrary to assertions made by Hon. Samuel Pam Gyang, he was conspicuously absent from the meeting, despite his claims to the contrary regarding his position as State Chairman.
His subsequent media appearances have, however, generated confusion, which is unbefitting of the people of Plateau State and unacceptable to our party.
The meeting served as a clarion call to Hon. Samuel Pam Gyang and others who may misconstrue the ADC coalition’s objectives. Our coalition’s true purpose is to unify and support states in building a more robust and inclusive party that benefits all.
The national body’s affirmation of state chairmen as ‘partners in building a stronger political party’ is a resounding vote of confidence that emboldens us to redouble our efforts. The leadership’s commitment to unity and inclusivity is evident, and we are well-equipped to address any attempts to sow discord.
As seasoned politicians, we remain undeterred by individuals seeking to undermine our positions. The national body’s inclusive approach has facilitated our active participation in negotiations, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation. This, in turn, has galvanized our efforts to mobilize support, resulting in a substantial influx of new members at our Jos office.
We are heartened by the overwhelming response, with thousands joining our ranks. We extend an invitation to even more individuals to join us on this journey, showcasing the party’s dedication to diverse perspectives and talents. By doing so, the ADC is bridging longstanding gaps in our nation’s political landscape and redefining the contours of inclusive governance.
To the good people of Plateau State, I wish to assure you that our national leadership will not countenance any illegitimate claims or attempts to undermine the party’s structure. Let us remain resolute in our pursuit of building a stronger, more inclusive party, disregarding unfounded claims and distractions.
The New Speaker of Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil has approved the appointment of Mr. Philip Eplong, as his Press Secretary.
Until his appointment, Mr. Eplong has been an Assistant Chief Information Officer with Jos North Local Government Council (LGC), where he worked tirelessly and distinguished himself over the years.
Philip Eplong’s media experience has spans several years, having worked in the newsroom of Plateau Radio Television Corporation (PRTC), between 2003 and 2004, as a “News Reporter” with Media Temple Global, a Jos-based Private Media outfit.
Philip Eplong holds a Diploma and a Bachelor’s degree certificates in Mass Communication from the University of Jos.
According to the press statement announcing his appointment, the Speaker has expressed confidence that “Eplong will bring his wealth of experience in media and public communications to bear, in promoting his activities, and that of the House”.
He also, wished the new Press Secretary, “success in his new role”.
Forum under the auspices of Legacies Party Defunct comprise of A.C.N, ANPP, C.P.C Central Zone , Plateau state Chapter has thrown weight behind the Candidate of Chief Sen.Joshua Dariye for APC National Chairman.
The members of the legacies party are party men and women of the defunct, A.C.N, ANPP AND C.P.C who come together to foster unity and progress in our party, All Progress Congress (A. P. C).
The members from central zone, of plateau state deem it imperative to support His Excellency Chief Dariye for the position of National Chairman of All Progress Congress (A. P. C).
Our reason is base on the principle of the party of Equity, Fairness and Justice and if this is true, Plateau State deserves the National Chairman of the party.
The person at this period is no other person than Chief Dariye; who is Focus, Courageous and a True Leader.
Therefore if All Progress Congress (APC) will want to get it right, the party should never contemplate by giving the position to Plateau State and the person that the caps fits is Chief Dariye.
We as critical stakeholders in All Progress Congress (APC) are aware of the critical moments the party is facing and for the party to move to victory it has to be a man who cannot just do a trial and error but who knows the job of politics well.
Dariye is a Mobilize, Unifier and all Inclusive Leader, hence the AKA “HEADBOY.”
We therefore solicits for support from all leadership of the party and members to rally round in support of no any other person, than:
His Excellency Sen. Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye (PHD) Khawung Mushere.
It was a heart-wrenching and deeply emotional moment as the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, visited Binda in Tahos Village, Riyom Local Government Area, the scene of a brutal and genocidal attack carried out by suspected Fulani militias.
The heinous attack, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 15, 2025, claimed innocent lives, left many others injured, and resulted in the destruction of homes, including a church.
Food items belonging to villagers were also looted by the attackers, compounding the tragedy.
Disturbing eyewitness accounts from survivors revealed that the armed assailants invaded the community in large numbers, and military operatives stationed 200 meters away couldn’t intervene successfully to prevent the carnage, with no arrests made in the aftermath.
Addressing the traumatized residents, Governor Mutfwang condemned the killings in strong terms and assured the people that his administration would not abandon them in their time of grief.
He pledged a comprehensive review of the state’s security architecture to ensure those charged with the protection of lives and property discharge their responsibilities without compromise.
“Let me promise you, by the grace of God, Riyom will not fall,” the Governor declared. “We will deploy every resource at our disposal to end this genocide.
This is not a case of farmer-herder conflict.This is terrorism; this is genocide, plain and simple.
And I assure you, we will escalate this matter to the highest levels.”
Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the efforts of gallant soldiers who have stood firm in defense of Plateau communities but noted that some bad elements within the security agencies must be identified and removed for peace to reign.
“We cannot continue like this. These attackers are not spirits, real people carried out these atrocities and vanished without a trace.
Sector Commander, you were in command when suspects were arrested over a soldier’s death. Why are there no arrests today?
Those young men currently held must be released immediately unless you have solid evidence to charge them to court,” the Governor demanded.
He urged the affected communities to find solace in God, assuring that the government will organize a dignified burial for those killed and take steps to support those who lost their homes.
“To our elders and youth, please remain calm and vigilant. I thank our young people across these areas for their courage in defending their communities.
We see you, we appreciate you, and we will continue to support you morally and otherwise to ensure that no one drives you from your ancestral lands.”
Governor Mutfwang called on the security agencies to stop targeting scapegoats and go after the real perpetrators.
“I want to hear of arrests, not excuses. The era of so-called ‘unknown gunmen’ is over.
These killers live among us and must be brought to justice. Let them serve as an example to deter others who plan to destabilize our communities.
“To our security forces: you are not here on a peacekeeping mission. You are deployed to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.
Anyone threatening these lives is an enemy of the state and must be treated accordingly,” he emphasized.
The Governor also extended his visit to Gwong, Fang, Keng, and Rachi communities in Bachit District of Riyom LGA, all of which have recently suffered similar deadly attacks.
He sympathized with the people, encouraging them to remain resilient and steadfast in defending their ancestral heritage.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Riyom LGA, Rev. Davou Musa, blamed the military for failing in its duty to protect the people.
He accused some personnel of complicity by shielding the attackers and called on the Federal Government to withdraw the military from the area. He also appealed for urgent humanitarian relief to support the survivors.
Chairperson of African Democratic Congress (ADC),in plateau state, Ambassador Mrs Hannatu Gagara has called on plateau citizens to make hast and register with the party in the state aheld 2027 General Elections.
As the Chairperson of the party who doubled as Organizing Secretary of Inter-Party Advistory Council (IPAC), said she is optimistic that with the recent coalition of the party , ADC is party is one party to defect in 2027 General election in Plateau and Nigeria as whole.
Ambassador Gagara disclosed this to Journalists in a press conference held in her Office along Domkat Bali Road in Jos, plateau State.
The Chairperson who had been member of the party for over (16), years of patience and resilience, revealed that the party was formed (20) years ago, with Chief Raph Uwosu as it first chairman and the party came to plateau state (19), years ago , formed precisely 27th March 2005.
She expressed her happiness over the recent coalition of the party’s initiative, said (20) years of ADC’s existence is a fairly long period of time,not (20) days.
Revealed that the party had not pulled the crowd it pulled during the coalition excise held at Abuja,and we are so happy seeing people coming into the party, is something that really make us happy which we thank God for.
She maintained.
On the acceptability of the party at the local governments of the State,the Chairperson disclosed that on resumption of office as chairman of the party last year 2024, I restructure the party with my excos from Wards, LG and the state level.
Explained that it’s undisputable facts that the party have being accepted from local government elections in the state in 2024 , barley two years of my assumption in office as state chairman of the party ..
She stressed that through the voting process, ADC was able to get 999 votes within (2) months ,we campaign vigorously,which brought about the votes we garnered during the local government elections.
“I just used it as testing ground to see if really is going to be a breaking ground for the people of plateau state.And it was widely accepted that time, let alone now that the party is opened to everyone, which by the grace of God,it will be Party for all”.
Whether she is not threatening by some persons who may be eyeing her chairman seat particularly now the party is growing, Mrs Gagara “Laughed” further revealed she have being in ADC for (17) years which l most say, to some extent,I know the games involved in the party inside out.
Added that the people calling for coalition were not doing that to hijacked the party from us the original owners,to regroup the party to faction out ways to move this country forward,so I will not be afraid of anybody because I know nobody will be puzzle about it.
The Claim by faceless person parading himself as Chairman of the party saying he had been member of the party for 3-4 years,Mrs Gagara claimed ignorance of the existence of the character ,said if anybody is claiming anything,is for himself or herself and it has nothing to do with the party.
“I am the one recognize by INEC, and also organizing Secretary of Inter-Party Advistory Council (IPAC), both in the state and National level ,so whatever you are doing here in the state, you should ensured you have the National support and blessings.”
However call on the people of plateau state to leverage on these real opportunities and rush to register with (ADC), in the state brandishing the party’s register before Journalists, says because there is many existing vacates positions to be filled in the party.
Stressed that the party’s door is opened to all desirous to become member,advised them not be skeptical of the party Success in the coming general election, assured that the party would be the only party to reckoned with in 2027 election.
Former Plateau State Governor, Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye, has described the demise of former president Muhammadu Buhari as a monumental loss, not only to his immediate family, Daura, Katsina state, but to Nigeria and African continent at large.
This is contained in a statement dated 14th July 2025 personally signed by Sen. Dariye and made available to “Gnews” electronically.
Senator Dariye stated this while reacting to the news of the demise of the former president who died at London Hospital on Sunday 13th July 2025.
The former governor, who commended Buhari for being a disciplinarian, patriot, astute administrator and a fine military officer, noted that his demise would be felt for generations to come.
While paying glowing tributes to the late General, Senator Dariye commended his unwavering commitment to the corporate existence of Nigeria which he always defended with high sense of responsibility.
” General Muhammadu Buhari is an elder statesman, whose life exemplifies discipline, honesty, service, commitment which he exhibited as a soldier and administrator while serving as Military Head of State and democratically elected president”.
” He is a staunch advocate of a corrupt free-society which he championed throughout his years of service to the nation.
Buhari’s legacy of honesty in service, which discourages the primitive accumulation of wealth, will continue to be a reference point in the annals of Nigeria’s history”.
Dariye further praised the former president for his strong-willed posture characterized by resilience and deep belief in the ideals of service to the nation. This propelled him to contest for the highest office in the land on three occasions, despite deliberate efforts to undermine his commitment.
The former governor stated that President Buhari’s reforms in the public service aimed at ensuring discipline, efficiency and due process as the hallmarks of service, would be remembered for ages.
The former Governor equally used the opportunity to commiserate with his immediate family, the Daura Emirate Council as well as the people and government of Katsina State over the great loss praying God to give them the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.
On behalf of his family, friends and political associates, Senator Dariye prayed God to forgive him his shortcomings and grant him Aljanna Firdaus.
Ambassador Yohanna Margif who contested for Governorship election on the platform of Labour Party (LP ),in 2023 general election in plateau state ,has Exonerated President Tinubu led Government from causing current Nigeria economic misfortunes contrary to the believe of Nigerians.
Margif further explained that rather than blaming Tinubu Government, Nigeria should blame the immediate past administration of late president Mohammadu Buhari whose (8), years as president of Nigeria destroyed the economy of the country beyond imagined, Tinubu Government is currently battling to reposition.
This is contained in press statement dated 14th July 2025 personally signed by Ambassador Margif and made available to “Gnews”electronically in Jos , plateau state capital.
The Press Statement Captioned “Ambassador Margif Speaks on Nigeria’s Current Challenges and President Tinubu’s Governance”,read in part:
In a bid to shed light on the current state of our nation, I wish to address the inheritance of the negative legacy of the late Muhammadu Buhari’s administration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The genesis of our current economic hardship and insecurity can be traced back to the policies and decisions of the previous administration.
As we navigate these challenges, I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s governance for its commitment to inclusiveness.
Despite the original plans of some aggrieved coalition leaders, President Tinubu has chosen a path that seeks to bring Nigerians together, rather than drive them apart.
This approach is a breath of fresh air in our nation’s politics and demonstrates the President’s willingness to listen and engage with diverse perspectives.
I urge all Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.
As we move forward, I believe it is essential to acknowledge the past and learn from it. By doing so, we can build a brighter future for our nation and ensure that the sacrifices of our forebears are not in vain.
Plateau State Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has joined family members, friends, well-wishers, and associates in celebrating the Director General of Research, Planning and Documentation, Government House, Jos, Mr. Sam Godongs, on the occasion of his birthday.
Governor Mutfwang Felicitation is contained in a press statement dated 13th July 2025 , signed by the governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs Dr.Gyang Bere and made available to Gnews in Jos.
In a heartfelt message, Governor Mutfwang described Mr. Godongs as a fountain of wisdom, marked by compassion, humility, and generosity.
He noted that Godongs’ invaluable contributions to governance and development in Plateau State remain indelible, as his work continues to shape and align government policies with the everyday needs and aspirations of the people.
The Governor applauded Mr. Godongs for deploying his intellect, skills, and deep knowledge to advance good governance, describing him as a symbol of hope and an inspiration to the younger generation.
He also acknowledged his pivotal role in grassroots development and political enlightenment across the state.
Governor Mutfwang further extolled Godongs as a model of humility, wisdom, and vision, whose leadership, resilience, and patriotic spirit have positively impacted countless lives.
He lauded his steadfast commitment to the ideals of love, unity, and public service.
On behalf of his family, the government, and the good people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang wished Mr. Godongs a joyful birthday celebration, praying for renewed strength, sound health, and divine wisdom as he continues to contribute meaningfully to purposeful leadership and sustainable development in the state.
In the past few weeks, a string of falsehoods, calculated blackmail, and malicious insinuations have been peddled in public circles mostly from within my home base of Kanam Local Government Area seeking to diminish my integrity, misrepresent my political involvement, and pitch me against fellow stakeholders in Kanam.
Today, I speak not out of anger, but in the interest of truth, posterity, and responsible leadership.
Let it be on record that I, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, was neither consulted nor informed formally or informally by the Plateau State Party leadership, Hon. Rufus Bature; the Hon. Minister, Hon. Nentawe Yilwatda; Distinguished Senator Simon Bako Lalong; nor any stakeholder whatsoever before the announcement of the newly constituted principal officers of the Plateau State House of Assembly.
Like every other citizen, I encountered the news through the media not through any privileged political consultation.
For the avoidance of doubt, I categorically state that I played no role whatsoever in the removal of Hon. Kalamu Idris Dal as Chief Whip of the Plateau State House of Assembly. Any suggestion to the contrary is false, mischievous, and deliberately engineered to malign my name and sow discord within the party.
I neither initiated, encouraged, nor influenced the change in principal officers. My conscience is clear.
Furthermore, I find it imperative to debunk the reckless insinuations being spread about my alleged interest or involvement in discussions regarding the Plateau Central Senatorial seat.
I have never had any conversation or understanding directly or indirectly with anyone, including Distinguished Senator Diket Plang or Hon. Barji, about contesting the Plateau Central Senatorial seat.
In fact, I have not met Hon. Barji more than three times since the beginning of my second term in the National Assembly, making such claims laughable and malicious.
In the same vein, let it be known that I have neither discussed nor endorsed any aspirant for the Plateau State House of Assembly seat in Dengi or Kantana constituencies.
I remain firmly committed to the guiding principles of our political movement in Kanam, where decisions regarding elective offices are made collectively not dictated by personal whims or factional manipulations.
It is also important to address another dangerously false insinuation: that I denied Hon. N.D. Shehu Kanam consideration for a federal appointment.
I state unequivocally that at no point did I have such a conversation with him or with anyone else.
It is not in my character, and it has never been my practice, to undermine any competent son or daughter of Kanam in their pursuit of service to the nation.
I have not discuss with ND Shehu as speculated that someone have told me not to consider him for political appointment.
Let me make one thing abundantly clear: my political journey has never been one of handouts, pity, or mere goodwill.
I was not “picked up from the streets” or “discovered in a village in Gum.” I had built a solid political base, earned the trust of my people, and was duly elected into the Plateau State House of Assembly in 2015.
I subsequently emerged as the Deputy Speaker of the 8th Assembly even as a member of the opposition party and without the backing of some of today’s vocal actors, including the then Governor, Barr. Simon Bako Lalong.
That achievement was not a fluke it was a testament to my political pedigree, resilience, and wide grassroots acceptance.
Those who seek to rewrite history by reducing my journey to charity or sheer luck are not only dishonest but insulting to the thousands of men and women who have stood with me, believed in me, and worked tirelessly alongside me.
Every step I have taken in public service has been fought for, earned, and paid for with sweat, sacrifice, and God’s grace.
On a specific note, I wish to address the recent claim making the rounds that Prof. Sale Kanam confronted me and supposedly told me that “leadership is not about wealth but about service to the people.”
Let me state clearly and categorically: at no time did Prof. Sale Kanam ever make such a statement to me. I will not descend to respond in the same tone as those spreading this tale.
But I urge them to reflect: before I joined forces with any political camp, God had already blessed me with the grace of success, and I have never failed in using that blessing to serve my people with sincerity and impact.
I have searched my conscience and I am satisfied that I have done my best and will continue to do my best for the people of Kanam. Leadership for me has never been about accumulation but about service, sacrifice, and impact.
I have also never authorized anyone to write, speak, or issue any statement on my behalf to undermine or insult any leader or stakeholder.
I have maintained silence out of respect for our elders, and because I have been focused on my health and my constitutional duties as your representative in the House of Representatives.
I am aware of the sustained efforts to provoke me into a public war of words—some of them sponsored by individuals who benefit from chaos.
But let it be known: I will not be dragged into political mudslinging. I respect our elders, I honour our institutions, and I will not exchange decency for drama. However, if the blackmails persist, I may be compelled to fully respond with facts in due time.
—-RESOLUTIONS:
— Appreciation: I express my heartfelt appreciation to all those who have supported my political journey, particularly Prof. Sale Kanam and other leaders of goodwill within Kanam Local Government Area.
Since the bulk of these unfortunate insinuations originate from Kanam, I have deliberately chosen to focus my response on our internal political environment.
—–Reviewing Political Realities: In light of the emerging political dynamics within Kanam and the Kanam Progressive Political Movement (KPPM) a structure I have served with utmost loyalty, commitment, and sacrifice I am undertaking a personal and political review. In due course, I will make my decisions public. Politics, for me, has never been and will never be a do-or-die affair.
——Call for Restraint: I strongly appeal to all my supporters, followers, and well-wishers in the name of Allah do not join issues with anyone over this matter. Do not issue statements. Do not respond to provocations. Do not fight my battles. I have spoken my truth with clarity and conscience. That is enough.
As always, I remain steadfast in my commitment to the peace, unity, and progress of Kanam and the entire KPPM. I will not be distracted by malicious propaganda, nor will I retreat from my duties. May God continue to expose falsehood, reward sincerity, and guide us all on the path of honour.
The Former Governor of plateau and Senator Federal Republic of Nigeria,Chief Sen.Joshua Chibi Dariye has Commiserates with I .D Gyang over the death of his mother NGO Lyop Dung Gyang who dead at the age of 96 years on Thursday 10th July 2025 .
Chief Dariye stated that death is inevitable to everyone, and when it comes, the deceased’s love ones should see it as an act of God who takes and gives lives and find solace in him.
According to him, Mama Gwey Lyop, has impacted positively on governance in Plateau and the entire country through her son, Senator I.D. Gyang, whom she groomed well and has served the state in various capacities and also as Senator of the Federal Republic.
The former Former Governor of plateau and senator Federal Republic of Nigeria calls on Gyang and the entire family to see Mama’s passing away though being painful, as a celebration of life and not to be overwhelmed by grief and sorrows seeing that she by far exceeded the seventy years as spoken by the scripture; adding that she lived well and saw her grand and great grand children flourishing.
He further admonished them to also take solace in the legacies she left behind and be greatly comforted that she came, saw and conquered by impacting positively on countless lives.
Dariye prayed God to comfort Senator Gyang, and the entire family and to grant them the fortitude ,grace to bear the irreparable loss and for Ngo’s soul to rest in peace at the bossom of the Lord.
The All Progressive Congress (APC),under aegis of “Forum Of Defunct Congress For Progressive Change (C.P.C),the above forum are former members of the defunct C. P. C who believe in coming together for the unity and progress of Plateau State.
The members of this forum are loyal party faithfuls of the All Progressives Congress (A.P.C).
The forum came together on the 8th of July, 2025, with one voice to throwing our unreserved support for the National chairmanship candidature of a great achiever, a mentor and a role model, CHIEF HIS EXCELLENCY SEN. JOSHUA CHIBI DARIYE (P.H.D).
This decision is as a result of the volumes of track records of this man, one time Governor for Eight years, A former Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, an Academician, a Philanthropy, a lover of peace, a leader per-excellence, and a true father of all (HEADBOY).
With all sense of Responsibility, we solicit support for Chief Dariye. As true founding members of the All Progressives Change (APC) we have no doubt that by giving him such an opportunity, it will be a work over for A.P.C not just in plateau state but in Nigeria comes 2027.
This is a man who knows the game of politics and can play the game to victory. As founding members of the party (APC) we urge and solicit the Plateau State chapter to immediately do the needful for Chief Joshua Dariye to clinch the National chairmanship.
We have the believe that our voice will be heard for the progress of A.P.C in Plateau State and Nigeria, Indeed we will never regret having Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye (PHD) as our National chairman. He has done it, he will do it better again.
GOD BLESS PLATEAU STATE A.P.CGOD BLESS NATIONAL A.P.C NIGERIA________________ ________________REV DR. DAVID JOSEPH DABIT NANKO BINFAChairman Secretary(07033730903) (09129346769) ________________ ALH AMINU MOHAMMED P.R.O (0703310419)
gnews.com 
You must be logged in to post a comment.