Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Your association determines your allocation. Associate yourself with persons of good quality if you esteem your own reputation.
When trust is broken, sorry means nothing..It is better to be alone than in bad company.
A decision is nothing more than a choice to eliminate other options and follow your path with determination. When you are honest you loose people who don’t deserve you. Control your actions, learn to react less… Adopt the pace of God.
The Lord said “Evil communications corrupt good manners”. The Lord Directs. Good Morning and a blessed Thursday..
On the 19th of October, 2024, Nigerian will roll out the drums in celebrations to honor a truly remarkable personage who has left an indelible mark on the annals African history – General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces. On this auspicious occasion, as the beloved General celebrates his 90th birthday, it is a time to reflect on the life and legacy of a man who has been rightly hailed as the “Abraham Lincoln of Africa,” Father of Nigerian Unity, Founding Father of the Economic Commission of West African States (ECOWAS), Benefactor of the Caribbean, etc.
Gowon’s journey to greatness began in the humble town of Garram, in Kanke Local Government Area, Plateau State, where he was born and Wusasa, Zaria where he grew from infancy. Born to a Christian family steeped in the values of service and devotion, his father, Pa Yohanna Gowon, and his mother, Mama Kurnyan Gowon, instilled in him a deep sense of faith and a commitment to the betterment of his fellow Nigerians. These formative years would lay the foundation for the principled leadership that would come to define Gowon’s political exposure.
Gowon’s innate leadership qualities were evident from an early age, as he excelled both academically and athletically at the prestigious Barewa College in Zaria. It was there that he honed his skills as a student leader, foreshadowing the pivotal role he would one day play in shaping the destiny of the nation.
The young Gowon’s military prowess was further refined at the renowned Sandhurst Military Academy in England, where he completed his military training earning the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors. His exceptional leadership abilities were put to the ultimate test when, at the tender age of just 31, he assumed the mantle of Nigeria’s Head of State and Commander-in-Chief, becoming the youngest person to ever lead the nation.
Gowon’s ascension to power came at a tumultuous time in Nigeria’s history, marked by the bloody counter-coup and the horrific ethnic pogroms that followed. Yet, it was during these trying times that the true mettle of this remarkable leader was revealed. With a steady hand and an unwavering commitment to national unity, Gowon navigated these treacherous waters, his famous mantra, “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done,” echoing throughout the nation and inspiring a generation of Nigerians to stand united in the face of adversity.
Gowon’s vision for a united Nigeria was manifested in his bold and pragmatic decision to create 12 new states, a move that addressed regional imbalances and gave a voice to the country’s diverse minority groups. This action coupled with his dodged determination to heal the wounds afflicted by the civil war mirrored the efforts of another titan of leadership, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US President, who had faced a similar challenge in the aftermath of the American Civil War. Both leaders understood that true reconciliation and lasting peace could only be achieved through inclusivity and compromise – a lesson that has stood the test of time.
Indeed, Gowon’s policy of “no victor, no vanquished” after the Nigerian Civil War exemplified his remarkable statesmanship and largeness of heart. Rather than pursue a path of retribution, as he was urged by the militant elements in the Army, he chose to prioritize national healing and the rebuilding of the nation. This compassionate approach, reminiscent of Lincoln’s spirit of reconciliation, has cemented Gowon’s legacy as a true visionary who recognized that the strength of a nation lies in its ability to rise above the divisions of the past.
Throughout his tenure, Gowon’s deep Christian faith and unwavering moral compass were evident in his actions. His benevolence, forgiving nature, and humble demeanor endeared him to the Nigerian people, even as they occasionally proved to be double-edged swords. The decision to excuse a defaulting war commander, for instance, while rooted in Gowon’s desire for unity and reconciliation, later came back to haunt him.
He demonstrated his compassion even abroad; on the tour of the Caribbean island of Grenada in 1974, Gowon discovered that the workers were on strike. Upon asking he was told it was due to months of unpaid salaries to public service workers by the government. Gowon took instant pity on the situation underwriting the entire bill amounting to about $20 million. He would also give an interest-free loan of $2.5 million to the Caribbean Development Bank among other foreign assistance in Africa and the Diaspora. He was of tremendous help to the Sahelian countries, especially Niger Republic, during drought of the 70s. Gowon played the Biblical “brother’s keeper”literally!
Yet, even as his power came to an end through a coup while he was away from the country, Gowon once again captivated the world with his infectious magnanimity. At a press conference in Kampala, Uganda, the General announced the change of government in Nigeria, pledging his personal loyalty and urging Nigerians to support the new leadership. This act of selflessness and commitment to the nation’s wellbeing cemented Gowon’s reputation as a true statesman, a leader who placed the interests of his people above his own.
As the world celebrates the 90th birthday of this remarkable leader, it is a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he has had on the African continent and beyond. Through his visionary leadership, compassionate approach to reconciliation, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of his nation, Gowon has cemented his place as one of the world’s genuine statesmen – a true “Abraham Lincoln of Africa,” as aptly described by the renowned political scientist, Professor Ali Mazrui.
In recognition of Gowon’s immense contributions to the unity and progress of Nigeria, we humbly urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to bestow upon him the highest honors befitting a leader of his stature. We propose that the President:
(a) Proclaim General Yakubu Gowon as the “Father of Nigerian Unity,” a title that aptly captures his pivotal role in preserving the territorial integrity and social cohesion of the nation.
(b) Issue commemorative stamps in his honor, ensuring that his visage and legacy are etched into the collective memory of the Nigerian people.
(c) Name a prestigious federal university after General Yakubu Gowon, providing future generations of Nigerians with the opportunity to learn from the wisdom and example of this towering figure.
(d) Erect a national monument in either Lagos or Abuja, the nation’s capital, that serves as a lasting tribute to Gowon’s unwavering dedication to the unity and prosperity of Nigeria.
As we gather to celebrate the 90th birthday of this remarkable leader, let us be inspired by the shining example of General Yakubu Gowon – a true titan of African leadership, a unifying force in a time of great upheaval, and a model of the selfless and visionary statesmanship that all leaders should aspire to. May his legacy continue to guide and inspire the people of Nigeria and the African continent for generations to come.
Mr. Ishaku, author and essayist, is a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Independent newspaper, Lagos.
On the 19th of October, 2024, Nigerian will roll out the drums in celebrations to honor a truly remarkable personage who has left an indelible mark on the annals African history – General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces. On this auspicious occasion, as the beloved General celebrates his 90th birthday, it is a time to reflect on the life and legacy of a man who has been rightly hailed as the “Abraham Lincoln of Africa,” Father of Nigerian Unity, Founding Father of the Economic Commission of West African States (ECOWAS), Benefactor of the Caribbean, etc.
Gowon’s journey to greatness began in the humble town of Garram, in Kanke Local Government Area, Plateau State, where he was born and Wusasa, Zaria where he grew from infancy. Born to a Christian family steeped in the values of service and devotion, his father, Pa Yohanna Gowon, and his mother, Mama Kurnyan Gowon, instilled in him a deep sense of faith and a commitment to the betterment of his fellow Nigerians. These formative years would lay the foundation for the principled leadership that would come to define Gowon’s political exposure.
Gowon’s innate leadership qualities were evident from an early age, as he excelled both academically and athletically at the prestigious Barewa College in Zaria. It was there that he honed his skills as a student leader, foreshadowing the pivotal role he would one day play in shaping the destiny of the nation.
The young Gowon’s military prowess was further refined at the renowned Sandhurst Military Academy in England, where he completed his military training earning the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors. His exceptional leadership abilities were put to the ultimate test when, at the tender age of just 31, he assumed the mantle of Nigeria’s Head of State and Commander-in-Chief, becoming the youngest person to ever lead the nation.
Gowon’s ascension to power came at a tumultuous time in Nigeria’s history, marked by the bloody counter-coup and the horrific ethnic pogroms that followed. Yet, it was during these trying times that the true mettle of this remarkable leader was revealed. With a steady hand and an unwavering commitment to national unity, Gowon navigated these treacherous waters, his famous mantra, “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done,” echoing throughout the nation and inspiring a generation of Nigerians to stand united in the face of adversity.
Gowon’s vision for a united Nigeria was manifested in his bold and pragmatic decision to create 12 new states, a move that addressed regional imbalances and gave a voice to the country’s diverse minority groups. This action coupled with his dodged determination to heal the wounds afflicted by the civil war mirrored the efforts of another titan of leadership, Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US President, who had faced a similar challenge in the aftermath of the American Civil War. Both leaders understood that true reconciliation and lasting peace could only be achieved through inclusivity and compromise – a lesson that has stood the test of time.
Indeed, Gowon’s policy of “no victor, no vanquished” after the Nigerian Civil War exemplified his remarkable statesmanship and largeness of heart. Rather than pursue a path of retribution, as he was urged by the militant elements in the Army, he chose to prioritize national healing and the rebuilding of the nation. This compassionate approach, reminiscent of Lincoln’s spirit of reconciliation, has cemented Gowon’s legacy as a true visionary who recognized that the strength of a nation lies in its ability to rise above the divisions of the past.
Throughout his tenure, Gowon’s deep Christian faith and unwavering moral compass were evident in his actions. His benevolence, forgiving nature, and humble demeanor endeared him to the Nigerian people, even as they occasionally proved to be double-edged swords. The decision to excuse a defaulting war commander, for instance, while rooted in Gowon’s desire for unity and reconciliation, later came back to haunt him.
He demonstrated his compassion even abroad; on the tour of the Caribbean island of Grenada in 1974, Gowon discovered that the workers were on strike. Upon asking he was told it was due to months of unpaid salaries to public service workers by the government. Gowon took instant pity on the situation underwriting the entire bill amounting to about $20 million. He would also give an interest-free loan of $2.5 million to the Caribbean Development Bank among other foreign assistance in Africa and the Diaspora. He was of tremendous help to the Sahelian countries, especially Niger Republic, during drought of the 70s. Gowon played the Biblical “brother’s keeper”literally!
Yet, even as his power came to an end through a coup while he was away from the country, Gowon once again captivated the world with his infectious magnanimity. At a press conference in Kampala, Uganda, the General announced the change of government in Nigeria, pledging his personal loyalty and urging Nigerians to support the new leadership. This act of selflessness and commitment to the nation’s wellbeing cemented Gowon’s reputation as a true statesman, a leader who placed the interests of his people above his own.
As the world celebrates the 90th birthday of this remarkable leader, it is a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he has had on the African continent and beyond. Through his visionary leadership, compassionate approach to reconciliation, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of his nation, Gowon has cemented his place as one of the world’s genuine statesmen – a true “Abraham Lincoln of Africa,” as aptly described by the renowned political scientist, Professor Ali Mazrui.
In recognition of Gowon’s immense contributions to the unity and progress of Nigeria, we humbly urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to bestow upon him the highest honors befitting a leader of his stature. We propose that the President:
(a) Proclaim General Yakubu Gowon as the “Father of Nigerian Unity,” a title that aptly captures his pivotal role in preserving the territorial integrity and social cohesion of the nation.
(b) Issue commemorative stamps in his honor, ensuring that his visage and legacy are etched into the collective memory of the Nigerian people.
(c) Name a prestigious federal university after General Yakubu Gowon, providing future generations of Nigerians with the opportunity to learn from the wisdom and example of this towering figure.
(d) Erect a national monument in either Lagos or Abuja, the nation’s capital, that serves as a lasting tribute to Gowon’s unwavering dedication to the unity and prosperity of Nigeria.
As we gather to celebrate the 90th birthday of this remarkable leader, let us be inspired by the shining example of General Yakubu Gowon – a true titan of African leadership, a unifying force in a time of great upheaval, and a model of the selfless and visionary statesmanship that all leaders should aspire to. May his legacy continue to guide and inspire the people of Nigeria and the African continent for generations to come.
Mr. Ishaku, author and essayist, is a member of the Editorial Advisory Board of the Independent newspaper, Lagos.
Mr. Garba Gowon Gonkol, the Plateau State Project Coordinator of ACReSAL (left), receiving the award presented to him by the Team Leader of Legislative Writers Forum National Assembly Abuja, Mr. Abraham Ogwaje
By Ezekiel Dontinna
The Plateau State Project Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL), Garba Gowon Gonkol, has been conferred with the 2024 Merit Award of Excellence by the National Assembly Legislative Writers Forum, Abuja, for his outstanding service in the North Central States.
Management of the Plateau State ACReSAL Project Management Unit and the visiting Team
Presenting the Award in Jos the Plateau State capital Wednesday, the Team Leader of Legislative Writers Forum, National Assembly Abuja, Abraham Ogwaje, noted that they were aware of his affords in the area of interventions in various communities, hence what singled him out for recognition.
“We are very much aware of your affords in interventions in various villages and that is why we are here to recognise you. We are also aware of your person and physical presence in the sites.
“We took our time and went round all the States in the North Central and sincerely, ACReSAL under your leadership in your State emerged as our best and that’s why we are here to celebrate you”, he disclosed.
He, therefore, congratulated the Project Coordinator and the entire Staff of the Plateau State Project Management Unit for this great fit, commending them for doing wonderfully well ahead of other States that have more resources than them.
Ogwaje, reiterated that the award was a prove for his hard work and outstanding performance assuring that, they would continue to tell the world about what Plateau ACReSAL was doing in the areas of interventions, empowerment, engagement and all ACReSAL activities in Plateau State.
Responding, the Award Recipient and Project Coordinator of ACReSAL Plateau State, Garba Gowon Gonkol, expressed happiness for being singled out of many and recognised by visitors whom he described as never met in life, coming all the way from Abuja to honour him.
He said, “I am delighted and behalf of the Plateau State Government who is executing this project and the management of Plateau ACReSAL, I am dedicating this Award first to God Almighty and the hardworking officers of the State Project Management Unit.
“If you had not stand by me, I wouldn’t have achieved this or wouldn’t know how this team would know about Plateau ACReSAL achievements. For choosing Plateau State and coming all the way from Abuja, it is a gesture that I really appreciate.
Gonkol, described the award as an honour to not him alone, but to the entire Plateau State ACReSAL Management Unit and promised not to disappoint the confidence reposed in them.
He enthused that this award would further ginger them to the best of our ability, do more to their communities and urged the visiting Team to continue to tell the world more about Plateau ACReSAL and the entire ACReSAL project in Nigeria.
Gonkol, however, disclosed that the Plateau State ACReSAL Project Management Unit was ever ready to collaborate with any organisations that wanted to promote it activities to the good of humanity because they work was community based.
Professor Shedrack Best, the Vice Chancellor, Plateau State University (PLASU) Bokkos
By Ezekiel Dontinna
The acting Vice Chancellor, Plateau state University Bokkos (PLASU), Professor Shedrack Best, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritize welfare of staff and students as well as close the infrastructural deficit of the university.
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Professor Keziah Ayuba, recently, the VC gave the assurance while awarding various contracts to successful contractors for the transformation of the University.
While presenting the contract letters to the contractors through the consultant, the Vice Chancellor, appreciated the continued support of Tertiary Education Trust Fund and re-echoed the need for maintaining quality and standard warning that, standard should not be compromised.
“Regarding standard and quality, you are going to give the university the face, that is required of the quality we desired. Make sure you do not disappoint us, when you begin the work at the university. Just give in your best”, he emphasized.
Best, therefore, expressed gratitude to the Visitor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, for his leadership quality that has helped in creating a strong relationship between the University and Tetfund as well as NUC.
On his part, the Lead Consultant of the projects, Benjamin Ijei, assured the Vice Chancellor of delivering the needed standard, urging the contractors to abide by the right channel of communication and get the best.
The Consultant, advised the contractors to ensure quality work and that, he would not relent in ensuring strictness in monitoring and the evaluation of the projects saying, “we will not give you any certificate without being properly certified of what you have done”
Responding on behalf of the contractors, Greg Lawani, of Capital Technical Service’s Ltd, assured of quality work, time and according to specifications.
The contracts awarded were for the completion of the long abandoned Mass Communication Department building which was initiated in 2019 and now awarded to EKORUDA NIGERIA LTD under the 2013-2016 and 2024 Annual Intervention by Tertiary Education Fund.
Others included: Renovation of 600 Capacity Lecture Theatre awarded to BISHAM INVESTMENT LTD under the years 2021-2024 matched TETFUND Projects Maintenance, Intervention and the Renovation of Faculty of Social Science awarded to NICHODAV NIGERIA SERVICES LTD under the years 2021-2024 matched TETFUND projects maintenance.
Also awarded were, the Construction of Students’ Hostel awarded to SAKALANTA INVESTMENT LTD under the year 2024 TETFUND Special Intervention and Construction of 2.455km fencing with Solar Lights awarded to CAPITAL TECHNICAL SERVICES LTD under the year 2024 TETFUND Special Intervention for Security Infrastructure respectively.
There were contracts awarded for the Procurement of furniture and equipment awarded to RINBANG NIGERIA LTD under the year 2024 TETFUND Annual Intervention. The commencement and completion range of the contract projects would be from twelve weeks to twenty four weeks.
Dr. Bolanle Olusola-Faleye, the Chief Party, USAID Local Healthcare System Sustainability (LHSS) Project
By Ezekiel Dontinna
The United States Agency International Development (USAID), through its In-Kind Grant, USAID Local Health System Sustainability Project (LHSS), has procured and donated 13 sets of ICT enrollment devices and equipment to Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLSCHEMA).
Presenting the devices/equipment yesterday, at the PLACHEMA Corporate headquarters in Jos, the State capital, the USAID LHSS Chief Party, Dr. Bolanle Olusola-Faleye, noted that the gesture was to address the urgent need to expand PLASCHEMA’s ICT capacity for remote and onsite enrollment.
“Currently, the Agency has only four sets of these ICT devices to cover its entire operations across 17 LGAs. Despite this limitation, PLASCHEMA has successfully enrolled over 150,000 individuals.
“However, this only represents about 3.3 % of the state’s projected population of 4,600,000 leaving a significant portion of the population uninsured.
Dr. Agabus Nangfwang Manasseh, the Director General, Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLACHEMA)
“With the intending implementation of mandatory health insurance, this gap in coverage poses a critical challenge to achieving universal health coverage (UHC) in the state, hence this complementing efforts”, She disclosed.
Earlier, the Director General of PLASCHEMA, Dr. Agabus Nangfwang Manasseh, commended USAID for this great gesture noting that, their partnership with the LHSS project has greatly enabled them to strengthen their systems.
Mr. Gayi Timothy Gayi, the representative of the Plateau State Commissioner of Health
He, listed some of the strategic partnerships they have enjoyed with the LHSS to include: the quarterly enrolee townhall meetings that helps them in mobilizing Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) enrolees across the 325 public PHCs where they access care.
The devices and equipment donated included: 13 Samsung Galaxy Tablets for capturing beneficiary sociodemographic data; 13 Signature pads for capturing beneficiary electronic signature and 13 Fingerprint Device for capturing beneficiary fingerprints respectively.
Other equipment donated were: 17 portable solar charger power banks to charge enrollment devices; 3 Identity Card Dual-side Printing Machine to print enrollment cards and over 20,000 pieces of Glossy white blank waterproof Identity (ID) Card to print enrollment cards for beneficiaries in that order.
There were words of appreciation from the representative of the SGS, Commissioner of Health and that of ES Primary Healthcare Board respectively.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Never go back to somebody who has already broken you. Your time and energy are precious, you get to choose how you use it. You teach people how to treat you by deciding what you will and won’t accept. Most people are far too much occupied with themselves to be malicious. You are only one choice away from changing your world, choose consciously and wisely. Trust yourself above all else. Cultivate a calm heart and a lit soul. Think positive thoughts always. The sun is new each day, and so are you by renewing your mind. The Lord renews… Good morning and a blessed Wednesday..
Senator Simon Mwadkon, former Senator Minority Leader and Senator representing Plateau North in the Red Chambers
By Ezekiel Dontinna
Former Senator representing Plateau North and Senate Minority Leader Sen. Dr. Simon Mwadkwon, has commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s leadership quality ascribing the PDP victory at the Local Government Council Elections to the arrays of Projects he has carried out so far.
He stated this yesterday, while addressing Journalists in Jos, the Plateau State capital shortly after the local government elections held last Saturday across the 17 LGAs.
While commending the Governor creating a levelled playing grounds for the free and fair election, the Senator appreciated him for releasing all funds meant for the local governments in the middle of out cry for funds ahead of the said LG autonomy.
He said, this display of transparency demonstrated by Mutfwang, was a hope for the people towards a dedicated and fruitful democracy expressing optimism that the PDP’s chances of taking over power at the national level was contained because its showed how well-positioned the party was.
Mwatkon said, “Mutfwang’s leadership style has created a level playing field for all political parties, fostering a sense of competition and democracy. This approach is unlike what was obtained in in the past in the last eight years in the and across states, where the ruling party often dominates the political landscape.
“The success of the local government elections in Plateau state can be attributed to Mutfwang’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. His leadership has created an environment where political parties can thrive and contribute to the development of the state”, he enthused.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State
While responding to the statement made by the Chairman of the Plateau State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Rufus Bature, that the election was rigged, Senator Mwadkwon, said the available avenue to ventilate any doubt was in the court to seek justice.
He made bold to say that, Governor of Plateau State Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has proved himself as a democrat by carrying out a free and fair election clarifying to the best of his knowledge that, the election was not rigged.
The Pankshin/Kanke Traditional Council of Plateau State, has, with heavy heart announced the demise of one of its members, Late Nde Zaka Lar, the District Head of Tolong, who died in the early hours Saturday October 12, 2024.
This came in a press statement signed by the Media Officer to the Ngolong Ngas, Wukaska Bako Gowon, and made available to newsmen in Jos, the State capital Monday.
Late Nde Zaka Lar, the District Head of Tolong
The statement states, “His Majesty, the Ngolong Ngas and President, Pankshin/Kanke Traditional Council, Nde Jika Golit, has, on behalf of members and families, announced with greatest sadness the demise of Nde Zaka Lar, the District of Tolong.
“The untimely death of one of the dedicated Traditional Rulers, Late His Highness, Zaka Lar which occurred in the early hours of Saturday 12th of October 2024, was a great loss to Council”, he expressed sadness.
According to the statement, Late Nde Lar, until his death was the District Head of Tolong, the recently created District out of the present Garam District in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State.
His Majesty, Nde Jika Golit, the Ngolong Ngas and President Pankshin/Kanke Traditional Council, who is the Chief Mourner
The Ngolong Ngas described the late Nde Lar, as a reliable and a respected Traditional Ruler who has served his people distinctively and extended his condolences to the Tolong Traditional Council and the immediate Lar family.
Meanwhile, the funeral ceremony would be announced by the immediate family subsequently.
Ambassador Nanpon Danjuma Sheni, the PIDAN President
Do not brood over your past mistakes and failures as this will only fill your mind with grief and regret, brooding over them is incubating them into bigger monsters that hurt your tomorrow. Learn from them and let them go and never repeat them in the future.
Your past is past, Don’t put a full stop by giving up, use a comma is part of life’s equation, which you need to solve future equation..
Commit your life, your plans, your hopes, your dreams and your fears to God through prayer everyday. In return you will have peace in your life.
He who reflects too much about the past, will achieve little. The Lord said ” Go forward…..” GoodMorning and a blessed Monday….
The Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (PSMPWB), Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, has commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang, of Plateau State for making history by conducting the most free and fair council election ever.
He has also congratulated the newly elected local government chairmen and councilors on their resounding victory in the just concluded October 9th local government election.
Hon. Dayaibu Dauda, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (PSMPWB)
The Executive Secretary stated this Sunday shortly after the swearing in of the newly elected Chairmen by the the Executive Governor of Plateau State recently.
Hon. Dauda, while describing the election as a watershed moment in Plateau State’s history, commended Governor Mutfwang’s leadership and commitment to free, fair and credible elections.
He said, “this election marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time the citizens’ voices have been truly heard, within the last 8 years of the APC administration in the state.
“It’s a New Era of Transparency and Accountability. The Governor’s vision for a better and united Plateau has inspired hope in the hearts of citizens.
“His non-interference in the electoral process demonstrates his dedication to democratic ideals and Plateau State has now become a beacon of hope for Nigeria, showcasing the possibility of conducting credible and trustworthy elections”, Dauda.
He also commended the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) led by Plangji Daniel Cishak for conducting a seamless and transparent election process and that, his professionalism has strengthened democracy in the state.
The Executive Secretary described him as a game-changer for introducing Voters Verification Software (VVS) to revolutionized electoral processes in Plateau State saying, “the innovative technology ensured accuracy of voter information, prevented electoral malpractices and promoted transparency”.
“I, therefore, congratulated the 17 newly elected chairmen and 325 councilors on their well-deserved victory which is an attribute to your success and dedication to serving the people.
“As you begin your tenure, remember the trust bestowed upon you by citizens. May your leadership bring prosperity, unity, and progress to Plateau State”, he advised.
Hon. Dayaibu Dauda, concluded by calling on Plateau citizens to sustain the peace currently being enjoyed in the state, support and key into THE TIME IS NOW administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang for the progress and development of Plateau State.
His Majesty, Nde Jika Golit, the Ngolong Ngas and Chairman Pankshin/Kanke Traditional Council
By Ezekiel Dontinna
His Majesty, the Ngolong Ngas, Nde Jika Golit, has described the upgrade of former Federal College of Education (FCE) to Federal University of Education Pankshin (FUEP) as a landmark development to not only Ngasland, but Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
He stated this recently, while in an interview with our correspondent in his Pankshin Palace, the headquarters of Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The Royal Father said, “the upgrade of the Federal College of Education (FCE) to Federal University of Education Pankshin (FUEP) is a very good development. In fact, we are very excited because it is something we didn’t expect it will come.
“It is just the will of God that we have this University and it is quite a landmark development to not only Ngasland, but to the people of Plateau State and the country at large.
“We also want to use this opportunity to appreciate our Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Constituency, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, who fought tiredly to make the University possible and we are very happy”, he commended.
According to the Ngolong Ngas, this development would create more job opportunities to many citizens and also developed the host Community, making it very busy academically and economically.
He, therefore, thanked the Federal Government for making this possible and assured them of all the needed support and cooperation by collaborating to see that the University succeed in bringing academic excellence in Nigeria.
His Majesty, Nde Jika Golit, however, appealed to all sons and daughters of the land who have interest in respective positions, especially, the position of Vice Chancellor of the University to pursue it with decorum by proving their worth and qualifications.
“Whether you are a man or woman, you are all our children. Let us pray that whoever is qualified by the interviewers and emerged as the VC, we will accept it and join hands to support him or her to help move our land forward”, Nde Golit advised.
Streetbell Online 