Streetbell Online

In quiet moments, when hearts align, even the simplest conversation becomes sacred. It’s not the words, but the truth within them that stirs the soul.

Some voices heal, and some presences truly understand. God often speaks through others, so when grace brings someone who awakens peace or fire within, pause, listen, and receive.

A small word, touched by heaven, can set your spirit free. Don’t die in silence, there are still a few trusted ones out there.

Speak! The Lord said, “The truth shall set you free…” You will be fine.

Good morning and a blessed Wednesday….

By Ezekiel Dontinna 

Plateau State Commissioner for Local Government and  Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon.Ephraim Usman Gar has described Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s emergence as a divine appointment. 

He made this known while playing host to the leadership of the Mwaghavul Development Association Women Wing, in his office in Jos, the Plateau State capital recently.

Speaking to the leadership of the Mwaghavul Development Association Women Wing in his office, the commissioner emphasized that the present administration was committed to repositioning the state through infrastructure development and other initiatives.

He added that part of the BARC Farm would be given out to youths for farming to empower them economically and boost the internally generated revenue of the State, hence the need for youth to key into it

Usman, therefore, attributed Governor Mutfwang’s emergence as devine, underscoring the administration’s commitment to transforming Plateau State.

The Commissioner pledged to continue supporting the association’s programs, particularly those meant for empowering widows and orphans.

Earlier in her remarks  the National President of the Mwaghavul Development Association Women Wing, Mrs. Grace Joseph Gora, said they are in the commissioners office to seek areas of collaboration.

 Mrs Gora praised Governor Mutfwang for appointing Usman based on his proven track record and assured him of their total support in achieving his set goals for the ministry.

Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Yakubu Ishaya Mallo credited the ministry’s achievements to Governor Mutfwang’s unwavering support.

The visit concluded with the National President decorating the Commissioner with the Mwaghavul attire symbolizing appreciation for his dedication to  community development.

Great ideas often receive violent opposition from mediocre minds. The world hates change, yet it is the only thing that has brought progress.

Challenge is nothing more than a seed of opportunity as life is like photography, you need the negatives to develop. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.

Find peace in what you cannot change. Pursue that idea with Patience, perseverance and endurance.

Patience is a virtue, he conquers who endures. Patience in faith not patience in laziness because the man who has done nothing, but wait for his ship to come in has already missed the boat.

Don’t go to Church to Shout “I receive” when you have not planted… thats foolishness. Remember, God Said, I will bless the Work of your hands.. The Lord instills..

GoodMorning and a blessed Tuesday…

Sometimes, the most powerful move you’ll ever make is no move at all, when it does not conform with your values and principles.

In a world spinning with chaos and drama, choosing peace over participation in wrongdoing isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.

Walking away doesn’t mean you’re afraid; it means you value your energy too much to waste it on noise that doesn’t grow you.

Growth demands focus, and not every battle is yours to fight. Protect your peace, guard your growth, and remember: silence and distance are sometimes the loudest and strongest decisions you’ll ever make.

The Lord said “The battle is mine…” You will be fine…” Good morning and a blessed Sunday..

Success is indeed a journey, not a destination. It’s the result of consistent effort, perseverance, and resilience.

To fuel your motivation and stay on track, remember to set clear and achievable goals. Celebrate small wins along the way. Surround yourself with positive influences. Focus on progress, not perfection.

And when faced with obstacles or setbacks, recall that every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Every failure is a stepping stone to success. Every challenge is a chance to develop strength and character.

Keep pushing forward, stay motivated, and believe in yourself! The Lord encourages..Good Morning and have a blessed weekend..

Life becomes complete when you see that the only thing missing is your appreciation for it.

Your doubts create mountains, but your actions move them. You must always choose to forgive yourself.

Nothing can stop you once you have made up your mind. Greatness is created through time and effort.

Move with laughter and love, the more you give, the more you’ll receive as your passion is waiting for your courage to catch up.

The first step is: Don’t be anxious. God controls it all. The Lord sustains…Good morning. Thank God it is Friday.

By Katdapba Yunana Gobum

As at the time I sat to write on this subject, I had scant knowledge about who Hon Dachung Musa Bagos is.

The test I envisaged it would pass was already evaporating even before I started. I didn’t want to be laughed at if the material went out.

And perhaps even sued; that is if I got things muddled up. As a Journalist, standing before a judge, could never be an option.

Whatever criticisms this material would receive is my responsibility to shoulder; and for which I offer sincere apologies, if they don’t meet your standards.

Now, I understand and know better how God has brought him thus far. The sheer amount of determination ensured he didn’t remain struggling for life.

He had purpose for his life, even when those who thought differently stood by, watching to confirm otherwise. He has been vindicated!

Any young person who ever thought he has been a hussler, wait until you have been told what Dachung Musa Bagos did over the years to get to where he is today.

Have you ever stayed in the Terminus market area in Jos selling CDs? Have you conceived workable ideas, yet had no one to sponsor? How about using your car to serve as mobile office, just so you can pursue a dream running an NGO?

The questions are not yet finished: Have you met a man who loves to make others happy at his detriment? Have you come in contact with a man who does not have a ‘no’ when solving people’s problems?

Come to think of it, how many politicians would sacrifice to help their constituents without thinking of the price? Are there still politicians who make attempts at satisfying people, even if such will bring pains to them?

As at the time Dachung Musa Bagos started to shoulder people’s problems, a lot of people who didn’t believe in his capacity started to read meanings into his philanthropy. Before long, the seeds of what he wanted had started to manifest its head in people’s lives across communities in the state.

When Gospel Music on the Plateau was started by him on Plateau Radio Television (PRTV), the motives behind it was commonplace: He, being the anchor, used the programme to transform lives by nurturing talents in young people through gospel music.

More to it, it was envisaged for such young persons to own acoustic guitars of their own. And importantly, so that they can ply their trade more effectively, using them.

Today, when the idea of Family Christmas Celebration is mentioned, those who know its worth recall that years ago, Hon Musa Bagos had, in conjunction with Plateau Tourism Corporation brought gospel artists to the Wildlife Park to celebrate yearly.

Have you heard about the Berom Christmas Carol? It is a yearly gathering of Berom choristers and other invited artists to celebrate Christmas at the DB Zang Commercial College, Bukuru every December; thanks to the yearly sacrifice of Hon Dachung Musa Bagos.

No wonder, at the heights of the struggle, he gave all he had in order to bring to Jos, the international gospel singer, Ron Kenolly to perform at the Rwang Pam Stadium, Jos. Even though it never materialise, it was an ambitious project that changed his perception.

But, the personal struggle that enabled him warm his way into the EFCC and ICPC for consulting roles could not be possible if his integrity had not been tested and found worthy of their trust.

If you come to the realisation that the struggle has been his life, only then would you get the meat of the matter about his person, and what he stands for.

He informed his listeners through what he published in the Gospel Music on the Plateau Magazine. That captured the inspiring stories of prominent musicians on the Plateau; who through them can provide direction and mentorship for others in the ministry.

While it is true that he enjoyed the glitz of the TV program, it is without doubt that his efforts were complimented with several awards to boot.

It has been established that when a man makes a mark, like the agama lizard; he needs to be complemented, and at best, encouraged.

Truth is, our paths have never crossed each other, so that busy bodies won’t go to town with a different narrative of what you are reading.

Perhaps, if you must engage yourself in it, know that I am a member of the constituency he represented in the House of Representatives. At least, I can take liberty and ask questions about his person and activities.

Bagos’ brand of activism has a conviction power; no wonder, it has repeatedly helped several causes; using the Dachung Musa Bagos Foundation as a platform.

It is on record that Vwang people in Jos South of Plateau State have a history of being involved in areas that have changed the narrative of the lives of people. Being a member of this community, his talents have not been misplaced.

It does not stop there; their activities as with other parts of the state transcend boundaries of the ordinary; just so if they can meet the needs of community members.

It has been established that the political blood flowing in his veins must have been inherited from his father. He attempted to be chairman of Jos South at some point in his life; an endeavour his father had accomplished in the defunct Jos Division several years ago.

He had a father, who, like a collosus, his influence still bestrides Berom land on account of the things he planted in the past. What is being celebrated today as Nzem Berom has his imprimatur.

It is on record that one spiritual leader, who had a profound impact on his life was Rev Victor Musa, former President of ECWA. His influence was so pronounced that he ended writing a book on: The life and times of Rev Victor Musa.

When it was apparent that he has had enough political tutelage, he showed interest in contesting for the Jos South/Jos East House of Representatives Federal Constituency.

In 2015, an ambition to represent his people he had nursed for some time did not materialise as he was prevailed upon to put it on hold.

In 2019, he returned stronger and determined to be the voice of his people. He got the nod of the federal constituency and was in the House for 4 years.

Again, even though a second tenure was realised, the ambition was scuttled in 2023 after he won the election to represent his people on account of a ruling by the Appeal Court.

In an attempt to create a meeting point for the youth of Plateau State, the G17 became a reality, as Convener of the group. Youth from the local government areas were involved in discussing policies that should favour Plateau people.

Today, many recall how he held the Lalong’s government by the jugular on account of the MoU the state government entered with Jaiz Bank to rebuild the Jos Main Market in 2022.

It is not for nothing that life, as a book, has different but interesting chapters to read. It will be out of place to think that a bad chapter will suffice to stop reading the book.

Over the years, Bagos must have ‘read with horror and a heavy heart how some villages’ have come under intense and severe attacks by Fulani herdsmen militias.

This sad recurring decimal in Bokkos, Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Riyom, Kanam and Wase has emboldened his capacity to speak for the state; while advocating that lasting peace and justice are given to the victims.

He has, without doubt, proven that he is dedicated, through the quality of representation so far given; for which his people have reason to have confidence in him.

In four years of impactful legislation, community development, and youth empowerment initiatives he has given; among many others, it is safe to conclude that the struggle has just started.

Indeed, the bells are still tolling for him. The calls by people in the district to step a notch higher in Plateau North in 2027 are deafening. They say, the voice of the people, is the voice of God.

By Ezekiel Dontinna 

The Eggon Community, in collaboration with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, has concluded arrangements to host the 2025 edition of the International Museum Day (IMD) come May 20 and 21, 2025.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the Chairman, Media and Publicity Subcommittee of the 2025 International Museum Day Thursday, and made available to newsmen in Jos, the Plateau State.

Statement disclosed the theme of this year’s celebration as: “The Place of Museums In a Rapidly Changing Economy”, and promised to showcase an exciting and enriching experience for participants.

It further disclosed that, the occasion would take place at the National Museum Jos, Plateau State on May 20 – 21, 2025 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and that that, for any more details information it should contact: Eggon Cultural & Development Association

Phone: +234 8033219379

However, the President of the Eggon Cultural and Development Association (ECDA), Dr  David Abuluya, said, “We are thrilled to host this prestigious event and share our unique cultural identity with the global community. 

“We believe that this celebration will not only promote cross-cultural understanding, but also contribute to the preservation of our cultural heritage”, he emphasized.

According to the committee, the Eggon people were known for their rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, and were eager to showcase their traditions, customs, and historical artefacts to the world. 

It also revealed that the festivities would culminate in a spectacular gala night, displaying an enchanting array of traditional dances and mesmerizing music that would provide a fitting conclusion to the event.

According to the President of the Eggon Cultural and Development Association (ECDA), Dr  David Abuluya, “We are thrilled to host this prestigious event and share our unique cultural identity with the global community. We believe that this celebration will not only promote cross-cultural understanding but also contribute to the preservation of our cultural heritage.”

“The International Museum Day celebration is expected to attract participants from across Nigeria. The event is free and open to the public.

“Expected as Special Guests of Honour at the two-day event are the Executive Governors of Nasarawa and Plateau States, Engr Abdullahi A. Sule and Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang respectively. 

“The Aren Eggon, His Highness Honourable Justice Ahmed Ubangari Alaku I, CJ Rtd, OFR will be the Royal Father of the day and the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba will be the Grand Royal Father of the day”, the committee highlighted.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Lafia and Chairman, Nasarawa State Traditional Council of Chiefs, Honourable Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I, would graciously serve as the Chairman of the opening ceremony, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, as the Chairlady and Senator Patricia N. Akwashiki would be the Mother of the Day respectively.

Other notable attendees include:

Chief Joshua C. Dariye, a former Governor of Plateau State, as chairman of the occasion and Professor Victor S. Dugga, Provost, College of Postgraduate Studies, Federal University of Lafia, as Guest Speaker at the occasion.

On the other hand, the Keynote Speaker at the Gala Night would be by Professor Hamid Ozohu Suleiman, Dept of Public Administration, University of Abuja. Nigeria and their presence would undoubtedly add depth and significance to the celebrations, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage and preservation.

In a historic departure from its traditional one-day format, the 2025 International Museum Day (IMD) celebration would, for the first time ever, span two days.

This decision, sanctioned by the management of the National Museum office in Jos, promised to deliver an even more enriching and immersive experience for participants.

The event would feature a range of activities, including cultural performances, exhibitions, workshops, and lectures.

Be the spark that ignites passion, not just the warmth that soothes complacency. In a world lulled by comfort and routine, dare to burn with purpose.

Let your presence be a catalyst stirring hearts, challenging minds, and awakening dreams. Don’t settle for being merely pleasant; be powerful. Let your words carry weight.

Let your actions breathe life into change. Stand for something greater than ease stand for truth, courage, and a vision that compels others to rise.

Because the world doesn’t need more echoes of comfort. It needs firestarters like you. You will be fine. Say I will be fine…..

The Lord empowers, Good morning, and a blessed Thursday…

By Ezekiel Dontinna

One remarkable step taken by the present administration in Plateau State towards a focused and transparent governance, was the engagement of citizens in every year’s budgetary discussion.

This, of course, has been the driver of Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, and it has truly rekindled the hope and inclusiveness of citizens who, decades after decades of the State existence has never been this opened.

The only opportunity they had to recall without questioning the proposal, was the yearly radio broadcast or adverts on newspapers which comes either at the end or first month of the year for the privileged few.

Majority of citizens ignorantly received whatever projection of government with nostalgia, especially when respective budgetary allocations for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) were allocated huge amount.

There has never been a time when government deemed it necessary to step these projections down to their door steps, asking for their opinions or creating an opened space for them to give in their inputs about the budget.

This, to most citizens of Plateau State was a new dawn, because it was happening for the first time in the history of the State, a situation where a town hall meeting were organised across the three Senatorial zones.

However, on assumption of office, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, thought it wise to engaged stakeholders in fulfillment of his electioneering campaign promises for inclusiveness allowing citizens to decide on areas of dire needs that affects them.

He believed that, since the budget was for the people of Plateau State, there was a need for them to participate in the decision making by contributing and spelling out their areas of needs to enable government have a direction.

Equally, according to the programme, all the projects to be encapsulated in the proposals should align with the Plateau State Strategic Development Framework (PSSDF) 2023–2027, anchored on the three (3) Pillar Policies of: “Peace, Security and Good Governance; Sustainable Economic Rebirth and Physical Infrastructural Development respectively.

In continuation of the last budget proposal with the stakeholders engagement meeting, the Plateau State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Adams B. Lekshak, led the Management and Staff of the Ministry Shendam LGA, the Southern Zone headquarters for the commencement of 2026 budget preparation recently.

The team also held similar citizens town hall engagement meeting at NMS Hotel and Suites conference hall in Pankshin LGA for the Central Zone and subsequently, at the Nigerian Bible Translation Trust (NBTT) conference hall for the North Zone respectively.

Addressing the stakeholders, the Commissioner said, “our desire as a government is to impact positively in the lives of the citizens and equally transform the state to a new height of progress and development after a successful completion of the process.

“The rationale behind this engagement is to strengthen transparency, accountability, open governance and sustainability in the execution of government projects and programmes as well as to gain more confidence in the implementation of the budget.

“It is also important to inform the citizens that, in an effort to providing dividends of democracy at the grassroots, the government has introduced a new programme known as, “Ward Development Initiative Programme in the 2026 budget. The aim is to have the presence of government projects in all the 325 State Electoral Wards of Plateau State”, he highlighted.

Lekshak, therefore, charged all citizens to support the present administration in its deliberate effort in transforming the state across all sectors of the economy, hence the need for peace in the State.

On his part, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget, Hon. Obadiah Joshua Afwanks, said, “we have started seeing roads being constructed. We have already started seeing clean water.
We have also seen hospitals being renovated and even constructed.

“This is to say, indeed, the Time Is Now Administration is for the transformation on the plateau. There has never been a time like this. In the 2025 budget, the governor deemed it fit to say yes, the best way for him to pay the people of Plateau State is to pay them through development”, he noted.

Earlier, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Yohanna Mangtu, commended participants for the show of interest in government programmes and encouraged them to support the government by ensuring that peace was achieved in the state.

There were presentation of the 2024 approved budget by the Ministry’s Director of Budget, Mr. Yusuf Bot, questions and answers sessions as well as good will messages from the traditional institution and CSOs respectively.

By Ezekiel Dontinna 

Nasarawa State Chapter of the North Central Reformed Youth Assembly (NCRYA), has threw its weight behind the North Central Leadership’s position on the rejection of Mr Newman Solomon Maitoro, as National Chairman.

This position came after an emergency online meeting held on May 12, 2025 by the Nasarawa State Chapter of NCRYA aligning itself with the resolution passed by the North Central Zone regarding the national leadership.

The position states, “as the home state of the current National Chairman, Mr. Newman Solomon Maitoro, we are deeply concerned by his actions and inactions that have undermined the integrity of the Reformed Youth Assembly. 

“Despite our initial hopes and goodwill, the realities of his tenure have compelled us to take a firm and principled stand. We, therefore, declare our full support for the unanimous vote of no confidence passed on Mr. Maitoro by the North Central leadership, based on the following grounds:

“Gross misuse of power and subjugation of internal democratic processes; Refusal to delegate authority to the Deputy Chairman during his absence, in violation of constitutional procedures; Non-transparent handling of finances and administrative responsibilities and 

Systematic marginalization of state chapters and erosion of trust among stakeholders.

As the chapter from which Mr. Maitoro hails, we believe it is our moral duty to hold our own accountable. Hence, we join the North Central Zone in calling for his immediate resignation and support the constitution of an interim leadership committee to oversee a proper transition in line with the association’s constitution”, it stated.

The Assembly, therefore, urged all national stakeholders, advisory councils, and founding members to act with urgency to prevent further damage to the vision of the Reformed Youth Assembly.

It reiterated that, the Nasarawa State Chapter remains committed to upholding the ideals of transparency, accountability, and reform, and would continue to work toward a youth assembly they could all be proud of.

By Ezekiel Dontinna

Plateau State Office of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has concluded arrangements to commemorate the International Day of Boy Child come May 16, 2025.

This was made known through a press statement signed by the Plateau State Coordinator of NHRC, Mrs Kiyenpiya Mafuyai, and made available to THE NIGERIA STANDARD in Jos, the State capital Tuesday.

The statement states, “the Plateau State office of NHRC is commemorating the International Day of the Boy Child which was launched in 2018 to be celebrated annually on May 16.

“The International Day of the Boy Child is a day set aside to recognise the importance of the boy child wellbeing and the challenges they face, as well as celebrating the positive aspects they bring to communities and families.

“This day is a call to action for individuals, communities and societies to support boys development and empower them to become responsible, positive and healthy individuals”, it noted.

The Coordinator, Mrs Kiyenpiya Mafuyai, disclosed this year’s theme as: “Building Self Esteem in Boys: Stand up, Be Heard, Be Seen”, which emphasised on the need to support boys in developing a positive self image and encouraging them to voice their opinions and be seen.

She said, it was a chance for them to discuss issues such as mental health, social and emotional development and the importance of positive role models.

Mafuyai, therefore, appealed to all relevant stakeholder to lend their voices using media organisations to amplify the cause of the Boy Child, during this year’s commemoration period as they look forward to their usual cooperation.