CSP Iliya Ayuba Akawu, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rantya Cosmopolis Jos, Plateau State
By Ezekiel Dontinna
In recognition of his unflinching commitment in combating crime and criminality in his area of responsibility, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Iliya Ayuba Akawu, has emerged as the Best Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Year in Plateau Police Command.
CSP Ayuba, who is the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rantya Cosmopolis, Jos, bagged this award at the Maiden End of the Year Party and Award Night organised by the Plateau State Police Command, held at Crispan Hotel Jos, the State capital Saturday.
The Commendation Award was issued to CSP Ayuba by the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, psc after satisfactorily meeting the criteria for the selection of officers in that category.
His outstanding performance outstripped that of his contemporaries who head other Police Divisional Headquarters across Plateau State.
Prior to receiving the enviable CP’s Commendation, CSP Ayuba has been eulogized and celebrated by individuals, Community Leaders, Security Help Groups, Corporate Bodies, Religious Bodies, Civil Society Organizations and Students Union, and has subsequently received numerous award for excellent performance.
Other Police officers who received awards in other categories are as follows; CSP Musa Samila Gwani, who received CP’s Commendation Award, SP Lydia Bindip, emerged Community Policing Advocate of the Year, SP Donald Dogaba, Crime Buster of the Year and DSP Habila James(Rtd) emerged Sport Personality of the Year respectively.
Also recognised were; DSP Ikutanwa Idowu Esq., Police Legal Officer of the Year, DSP Bamidele Taiwo, emerged Tactical Commander of the Year, ASP Michael David, Award for investigator of the Year, while Inspr. Nehemiah Ishaya and STW Ezekiel Adams received award of integrity of the year and Traffic Controller of the Year in that order .
Speaking earlier, the Plateau Police Chief, CP Emmanuel Adesina lauded the contributions of the recipients and their dedication to duty.
He tasked them to recommit themselves to the primary duty of protection of lives and property of the citizenry, uphold Justice, integrity and respect in discharging their constitutional duties.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
People will not bear it when advice is violently given, even if it is well founded or intended.
Hearts are flowers; they remain open to the softly falling dew, but shut up in the violent downpour of rain. Approach is key in handling matters in life.
Always approach life with mentality of the cup half full rather than half empty.
The Lord said “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” Stop provoking people…The Lord instructs.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Man is never so tall as when he kneels before God, never so great as when he humbles himself before God.
And the man who kneels to God can stand up to anything. Time spent on knees in prayer will do more to remedy heart strain and nerve worry than anything else.
Prayer moves the hand which moves the world. The Lord said “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
Your morning is here. The Lord Listens…Good morning and a blessed Sunday….
Amos elected Speaker of Plateau Youth Council
Nurse Aseno Amos, the newly elected Speaker, Plateau Youth Council
The Plateau State Council (PYC), has elected Nurse Aseno Amos, from Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State as the Speaker of the Youths Council.
His election which was unopposed with a total of 60 votes unanimously agreed him to occupy the office following his track record.
Speaking after his election, Rt. Hon. Aseno Amos, expressed gratitude to God demonstrating his humility to members for the trust placed in him by the youths of Plateau State
He acknowledged the challenges facing the youth, including unemployment, lack of educational opportunities, social injustice, and political apathy.
Amos said, “despite these challenges I am remains optimistic and believe that with unity, determination and strategic vision, we can overcome these obstacles and create a brighter future for ourselves and future generations.
“As Speaker, I pledge to amend the PYC Constitution and Advocate for changes to ensure that the constitution reflects the needs and aspirations of all youth on the Plateau”, he reassured.
The Youth Speaker also promised to Organizing workshops, training programmes and skills development initiatives to equip youths with the tools they need to succeed.
He, therefore, emphasized the importance of true leadership, promoting transparency, accountability, inclusivity and respect among members.
The Lawmaker, added that the PYC under their Leadership would ensure transparency and accountability in their leadership.
He, therefore, urged his fellow youths to join PYC on this collective journey towards a better tomorrow, calling for unity, solidarity, and collective strength to build a prosperous and inclusive future for all.
The Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), has sealed an illegal park and entire shops housed by Amuzie Plaza along Zaria Terrace in Jos, for flaunting, resisting arrest and attacking the enforcers during sanitation.
This happened when the sanitation team approached the Plaza and arrested some offenders who flaunted the sanitation time, carrying out their normal businesses without any remorse.
Mr Samuel Dapiya, the Director General of PEPSA addressing Journalists
While arresting a roadside food vendor, a young man (name withheld) harassed the officers attached to the team and boldly ordered the woman not to follow the team of inspectors saying, “your not going anywhere.
This action forced the security personnel to arrest the young man for disrespecting the Government Order 001. However, as the security were dragging the young man, some groups of people came out and wrestled with the officers causing serious tension around the Plaza.
The Chief Magistrate explaining some issues
It, however, took the efforts of combined security personnel mobilised by the Director General of PEPSA, Samuel Dapiya, to arrest the situation.
The Director General Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), thereafter, sealed the entire Amuzie Plaza pending investigation to ascertain the authenticity of their operations as a park.
He said, “for us, as an agency, we intend to, first of all, address the man that challenged and threw stones at the enforcers this morning.
“And also, because of the zero compliance, we want to also look into the authenticity of this, the existence of this particular plaza.
“we are sealing this plaza this morning. We’ve called the GMDB to also look if this particular facility has the government approval to even be here, because you can see how looted and dirty it looks. Look at the water system behind, it’s entirely blocked”, Dapiya emphasized.
Dapiya, however, expressed concern over the attitude of some people noting that, it was not possible for government to do all of these things when most of the waste being generated were by these particular users here.
On her part, the Honourable Deborah Iyam, the Chief Magistrate with the Plateau District Judiciary, one of the magistrates saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the mobile courts, commended the PEPSA for taking this bold step.
The DG inspects the erosion site at West Of Mines
“I’m super excited because today is the first sanitation exercise of the year 2025 and for a couple of months, because of some reasons, we’ve not been able to have the monthly sanitation exercise.
“We’ve had the infection rate but we’ve not been enforcing the sanitation exercise, but, today is special because we’ve started off the full enforcement today and we have magistrates in all the mobile courts stationed here to make sure that violators are fine.
“So far we are doing very well. We are at Tafa Balewa road and now we are at Unity Junction where we had a little bit of problem with Amuzie Plaza and we’ve taken measures to see that the plaza is sealed and the violators are accordingly fine”, she reiterated.
However, the State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mrs Kaneng Tabitha Pam-Hworo, observed that more mobilization and sensitization should be made to continually educate the people on the importance of this exercise.
“This is because people need to know. We have to go to all nooks and crannies to tell the people that our sanitation is ongoing and is going to take place. That is what we want people to know”, she emphasised.
The exercise witnessed the arrest and prosecution of many defaulters by respective Mobile Courts stationed in Jos and Bukuru metropolis.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
There is a time to let things happen and a time to make things happen. Like a crab growing out of its shell.
Real growth requires you to shed what no longer fits: the people, beliefs, and habits that were holding you back as bravery comes from being vulnerable.
Self-care also means removing people and situations that cause you anxiety or stress.
Set and maintain strong boundaries that help you keep your inner peace. Loving from a distance is allowed.
You don’t always get what you wish for, you get what you work for.
Helping people gives life purpose. Don’t ever regret doing the right thing.
Doing the right thing has a way of coming back to you. The Lord directs…
The National body of Middle Belt Journalists Forum (MBJF), has joined the rest of Nigerians across the world in mourning the demise of former Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lieutenant General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, who died Thursday, after a protracted illness at the age of 81.
This came in a press statement jointly by the National President and National Secretary of the Forum, Mark Mayah and Ladi Emmanuel, and made available to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State capital Friday.
Lt. Gen. JT Useni (Left) with his boss, former Head of States, late General Sani Abacha
The statement states, “the Middle Belt Journalists Forum (MBJF), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lieutenant General Jeremiah Useni (Rtd).
“The Forum noted that the passing away of General Useni is a monumental loss, not only to his immediate family, but also to the Nigerian Armed Forces, Plateau State, and the nation at large.
“Lt General Jeremiah Useni was a selfless leader whose contributions to the development of Nigeria, particularly during his time as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory as well as a Senator of the Federal Republic cannot be forgotten.
“His commitment to the unity and progress of the nation was remarkable. General Useni, was a distinguished military officer and statesman.The nation has lost a great statesman, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” the Forum enthused.
Describing late General as a patriotic leader who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria, the MBJF extended its condolences to the Useni’s family, the people of Plateau State, the Middle Belt Region and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The Forum, therefore, prayed God to grant the family and his loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss, embracing them with divine comfort that would guide them in the difficult days ahead.
Hon. Dr. Joshua Sunday Riti, the Executive Chairman of Bassa LGC
By Ezekiel Dontinna
The Executive Chairman of Bassa Local Government Council (LGC), Hon. Dr. Joshua Sunday Titi, has achieved remarkable milestones within his first 100 days in office.
His leadership has brought significant progress in various sectors, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the development of Bassa LGA and the well-being of its residents.
This came in a press statement written and signed by James Bawa Rigye, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, as documented by the Director Research, Planning and Document, Kanzah Abel Daniel and compiled by Moses Maly, the Chief of staff to the Executive Chairman Bassa LGC and made available to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State capital.
The statement stated below a comprehensive account of his achievements: “The Thank You Tour: Hon. Dr. Riti embarked on an extensive ‘Thank You’ tour across all 20 wards in Bassa LGC.
“This initiative was aimed at expressing gratitude to the people for their support and conducting a needs assessment to identify the most pressing issues in each ward. This tour fostered community engagement and strengthened the bond between the local government and the good people of Bassa LGA”, it stated.
1. Also in the area of Security and Community Engagement:
“Hon. Dr. Riti embarked on an extensive ‘Thank You’ tour across all 20 wards in Bassa LGC. This initiative was aimed at expressing gratitude to the people for their support and conducting a needs assessment to identify the most pressing issues in each ward. This tour fostered community engagement and strengthened the bond between the local government and its constituents.
“Addressing the menace of insecurity in Bassa LGC has been a top priority. Hon. Dr. Riti, upon assumption to office, paid a courtesy visit to the GOC 3rd Armored Division/Commander Operation Safe Heaven, Jos, to synergize with security agencies to curb security challenges within Bassa LGA, thereby ensuring a safer environment for residents to live and thrive.
“In a bid to discover talent and potential within the LGA, Dr. Riti hosted the kickoff of the Governor’s Cup, which took place at Kent Academy, Miango, Bassa LGC”, accordingly.
2. Infrastructure Development:
Renovation of over 60 boreholes across the local government area, significantly improving water supply and sanitation for numerous communities.
“The ongoing construction of a state-of-the-art secretariat complex, which stands as a testament to Hon. Dr. Riti’s vision for a more efficient and modern local government administration. Once completed, this complex will enhance service delivery and administrative efficiency.
“Completion of the rural electrification project in Kihang Village, improving the quality of life for residents and spurring economic activities.
“Renovation of the NYSC Secretariat in Bassa LGC, showcasing support for the National Youth Service Corps and its contributions to community development.
“The issue of poor rural roads has been captured in this year’s budget to ensure enhanced connectivity within the LGA”, the statement revealed.
3. Economic Empowerment and Community Development:
“Provision of employment and appointments for several young people within the local government, creating economic opportunities and empowering the youth to actively contribute to the development of the area.
“Successful attraction of interventions from L-Press, leading to the construction of an abattoir and additional boreholes, promoting public health and improving water supply.
“Opening of a new market in Jebbu Bassa, a strategic move to boost local commerce and create economic opportunities for traders and farmers in the region.
“Partnering with the World Bank through the office of the Special Assistant to the Executive Governor on Plateau Commodity Market (PLACOM) to ensure smooth marketing of farmers’ perishable goods. This initiative includes government purchasing and storing goods during periods of glut to prevent farmers from incurring losses.
4. Human Capital Development and Youth Empowerment:
“Recognizing the importance of empowering the youth, Hon. Dr. Riti facilitated the employment and appointment of over 20 watchmen to protect school materials, children, and teachers after conducting assessments of primary schools within the LGA.
“Initiating a registration process for farmers upon assumption of office to identify and document all farmers within the LGA. This initiative is designed to enhance support for farming activities and facilitate access to farm inputs directly from the government.
“Training over 100 youths in various skills acquisitions, including sewing and hairdressing, to promote self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
5. Health:
“Dr. Riti conducted assessments of primary health care (PHC) centers and identified ongoing projects, shortages of manpower, and drug supplies. He has ensured that these issues are captured in this year’s budget for resolution and completion.
6. Welfare:
“Hon. Dr. Riti demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of legislators by increasing the overhead cost of the legislative arm of the LGA, addressing previously inadequate allocations.
“Salaries and allowances for civil servants have been increased, and the payment of salaries is up-to-date, including the implementation of the 70,000-naira new minimum wage.
“The acting President of the Traditional Council of Bassa LGC, Bra-Ngwe Rigwe Retired Rev. Ronku Aka, paid a courtesy visit to Dr. Riti to discuss challenges faced by traditional leaders, which he has pledged to address.
7. Revenue:
“Upon assuming office, Dr. Riti discovered poor revenue generation within the LGA and quickly constituted a Task Force for Revenue Generation and Mobilization, chaired by Mr. Mike Barje. This move aims to enhance the LGA’s revenue base.
8. Effective Leadership and Gender Inclusion:
“Hon. Dr. Riti’s administration is committed to inclusivity, ensuring that women play a significant role in governance. Women will form a considerable percentage of the soon-to-be-released appointments for positions such as Special Assistants (SAs) and Supervisory Councilors.
“His visionary leadership and dedication to service have been instrumental in achieving these milestones within such a short period”, as listed by the signitaries.
Lastly according to the statement, Hon. Dr. Joshua Sunday Riti’s first 100 days in office have been marked by impactful initiatives that addressed key developmental challenges in Bassa LGC.
His administration’s commitment to security, infrastructure development, economic empowerment, community engagement, human capital development and effective leadership has set a strong foundation for sustainable progress.
As he continues to work tirelessly for the people of Bassa LGC, his achievements in this short period serve as a beacon of hope and a promise of greater things to come.
Late Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni, former Nigeria’s FCT Minister, Senator representing Plateau South and one time Governorship Candidate
By Ezekiel Dontinna
The Senior Special Assistant to Plateau State Governor On Middle-Belt Ethnic Nationalities Hon. Dan Kwada, has expressed sadness over the demised of the former FCT Minister, Lieutenant General Jeremiah Timbut Useni (Rtd).
He described the demise of a renowned military strategist, statesman, and champion of the Middle-Belt struggles as a great shock and loss to not only Plateau State and Middle Belt, but to Nigeria and Africa as Continent.
Late Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni, former Nigeria’s FCT Minister
Hon. Kwada, says “I received with rude shock the news about the demise of Lt. Gen. JT Useni’s, it is a monumental loss, not only to his family and the people of Plateau State but to the entire Middle-Belt region.
“Gen. Useni’s unwavering commitment to the cause of the Middle-Belt, is unshakeable in the face of adversity, and his selfless service to the country will forever be etched in the nation’s memories”, he enthused.
Late General Useni, was Senator representing Plateau South and one time PDP Governorship Candidate of Plateau State
The SSA to Governor Mutfwang fondly remembered late Gen. Useni, an elder statesman who throughout his career demonstrated exceptional leadership, courage, and vision.
He noted that, the General was a military officer who served with distinction, rising through the ranks to become a Lieutenant General with military exploits and strategic brilliance, earned him numerous accolades and recognitions.
Hon. Kwada recalled his tireless advocacy for the rights and interests of the Middle-Belt people which truly defined his leadership, because he was a vocal critic of injustice, a fierce defender of the oppressed, and a passionate advocate for the development and progress of the region which earned him the name (Baba Mai Tuwo).
As Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Senior Special Assistant on Middle-Belt Ethnic Nationalities, he had the privilege of working with Lt. Gen. Useni on various initiatives aimed at promoting peace, understanding, and development in our region.
He, therefore, acknowledged that, Late Lt. Gen. Useni’s legacy would live on through the countless lives he touched, the many communities he empowered, and the enduring impact of his selfless service to our nation.
“His wisdom, guidance and unwavering support were invaluable. His passing leaves a gaping void in our midst. As we mourn the passing of this iconic leader, we recommit ourselves to the values he embodied: courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare and prosperity of our people”, Hon. Dan Kwada prayed.
While offering his condolences to the immediate family, the Taroh Nation, the Government and entire people of the Plateau as well as his business associates, friends and well wishers, Hon Kwada prayed that the legacy he left behind would continue to inspire and motivate people to strive for a brighter future for the Middle-Belt region and Nation at large.
IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD NPM, the Inspector General of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF)
By Ezekiel Dontinna
The Inspector General of Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has trained and passed out over six hundred and Sixteen (616): 55 Regular Intake of Police Constables at the Police Training School (PTS) Jos, the State Command.
AIG Nwonyi Polycarp Emeka PhD, the Commandant, Police Staff College Jos
Out of the above enlisted number of Constables, over five hundred and four (504) were males, while one hundred and twelve (112) were females.
However, among the 616 constables passing out at the Police Training School, Wednesday, Plateau State command has over two hundred and eighty-three (283), while the remaining three hundred and thirty-three (333) constables were for Taraba State respectively.
Hon. Justice Paul Galumje JSC (Rtd), the Hon. Commissioner I of Police Service Commission (PSC), representing the PSC Chairman
Addressing the newly enlisted officers, the Reviewing Officer, who is the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, congratulated the Police Constables and urged them to observe professionalism and remember that they were the face of the law.
Represented by the Commandant of Police Staff College Jos, AIG Nwonyi Polycarp Emeka PhD, the IG said, “today marks the culmination of months of rigorous training, discipline and personal growth.
“You have been tested-physically, mentally and emotionally. You have endured challenges that have prepared you to uphold justice, ensure safety and protect the rights of every citizen.
“As you take on the responsibilities of this noble profession, remember that you are the face of the law. Your actions, your words, and even your silence will shape how the public perceives the police force. Always act with honor and uphold the trust that the public places in you”, he emphasized .
Egbetokun, encouraged the newly enlisted officers to see policing as more than a career, but a calling that requires courage, integrity, compassion and a steadfast commitment to the principles of fairness and justice.
CP Emmanuel Adesina psc, the Plateau State Police Commissioner
The IG, therefore, commended the trainers and instructors, for their dedication and hard work in molding these young officers, preparing them to face the challenges ahead with confidence and professionalism.
Earlier, the Representative of Chairman, Police Service Commission (PSC), Hon. Justice Paul Galumje JSC (Rtd), who is the Hon. Commissioner I, PSC, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for graciously granting the request for manpower improvement and provision of needed logistical support.
He noted that, the need for Police support was obvious and charged the new officers to go out and reciprocate government’s good gesture.
The Chairman, further charged them to strive and work in partnership with other security agencies to help eliminate or reduce the security challenges currently running our beloved nation.
“Let me inform you that, the commission will closely monitor your activities. From today, I will not hesitate to sanction anyone who deviates from the time-tested established police rules of engagement.
“I want to congratulate you for successfully completing this training programme and for the nation to have found you worthy to wear this uniform. The sky is your limit and I wish you all a rewarding and productive career in the Nigerian police”, he prayed.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Decisions are very important in our daily lives. What we are or who we are today is the sum total of the decisions we made yesterday. What becomes our tomorrow is the result of our decisions today!
One wrong decision can destroy a whole life of efforts and achievements, one wrong move can cripple an entire destiny so let’s be guided in our daily decisions.
The progress of rivers to the ocean is not so rapid as that of man to error. Just as the smallest ripple can create a large wave, your small but consistent efforts can result in big changes.
Keep taking bold steps this year. Let the word of God be your guide in your decisions. The Lord directs……
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