The Child Protection Network (CPN), Plateau State, has called for urgent and coordinated action to tackle the growing incidence of child abuse across the state, after handling 36 cases within a single quarter.

The State Coordinator of the network, Sandra Chikan, described the situation as critical, rating the level of child abuse in Plateau at 9 out of 10 and warning that reported cases represent only a fraction of the problem.

Chikan disclosed this during an interview, noting that the network receives an average of at least three child protection cases every week through its helplines.

She stressed that the situation extends beyond communities affected by conflict and displacement, with children in ordinary homes and communities also exposed to violence, neglect, exploitation, substance abuse, child labour and sexual abuse.

According to her, children are increasingly being exposed to dangerous environments, including artisanal mining, with reports of children as young as three and four years old visiting mining sites.

She also raised concerns about children becoming involved in drug-related activities and spending late hours on the streets, with some reportedly found outside their homes as late as 1 a.m. or 3 a.m.

Domestic violence and neglect, she added, remain major threats, citing cases involving children allegedly beaten by guardians, denied food and forced into unsafe living conditions.

Some children employed as domestic helps or workers in restaurants have also reportedly faced exploitation, inadequate care and excessively long working hours.

Chikan warned that the vulnerability of children is further heightened when parents fail to provide adequate supervision and protection.

The CPN coordinator said the network recorded 36 cases in the last quarter, with approximately 85 per cent receiving outcomes classified as justice for the affected children.

She explained that justice does not always mean a criminal conviction, as interventions may include rescuing children from unsafe homes, reunifying them with their families, providing medical care, counselling, education or temporary shelter.

The network also operates school-based child protection clubs aimed at educating children about their rights and encouraging them to report abuse and seek help.

Against the growing challenges, the network has launched the Save the Plateau Child Initiative, a six-month fundraising campaign targeting ₦200 million.

The initiative is designed to strengthen child protection interventions across all 17 local government areas of Plateau State.

Planned activities include establishing school-based child rights clubs, creating child protection committees, strengthening the capacity of relevant agencies and stakeholders, and producing sensitisation and educational materials.

So far, child protection committees have been established in five local government areas with support from SOS, while the network plans to extend the structures to the remaining LGAs.

The Plateau State Government has contributed ₦10 million to the campaign, a development Chikan described as a demonstration of government’s commitment to child protection.

She appealed to individuals, businesses, civil society organisations and other levels of government to support the initiative.

Despite its intervention efforts, the CPN does not currently have a permanent shelter for children rescued from abusive or unsafe environments.

Chikan said the network only has a small emergency space at its office, while longer-term accommodation is arranged through partner shelters and organisations.

The network also collaborates with the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Association of Orphanages and Homes Operators and other child-focused organisations to provide temporary and alternative care.

Beyond emergency intervention, the CPN is participating in efforts to strengthen Plateau State’s child protection framework, including the review of the Plateau State Child Rights Law and the implementation of child rights committees at state and local government levels.

The network urged parents, communities, government institutions and other stakeholders to move beyond responding to abuse after it occurs and invest more in prevention, awareness, early reporting and community-based protection systems.

Chikan stressed that children must be given safe environments where they can speak about violence, exploitation or neglect without fear.

With abuse being reported both in conflict-affected communities and within homes and neighbourhoods, the CPN said a collective response is needed to protect vulnerable children across Plateau State.

Child Protection Network (CPN), Plateau State

Helplines:
MTN: 09033309421, 09033441242
Airtel: 08125802205, 08123911883

Email: cpnplateaustate@gmail.com

Office: Plot 14, Off Da Gwom Du Road, Peakfield Academy Street, Fwavel, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State.

Freelance Reporters,Jos

The Plateau State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant Ishaku Musa fdc, MNIM, JP, received the Chairman and members of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) on a courtesy visit to the NSCDC State Headquarters in Jos.

The visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the two organisations and fostering greater collaboration towards ensuring peaceful and credible elections in Plateau State.

Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of PLASIEC, Mr. Planji Cishak, appreciated the Commandant and the Corps for the warm reception accorded him and his entourage. He also commended the NSCDC for its immense contributions to peacebuilding, security, and stability across the state.

Mr. Cishak explained that the purpose of the visit was to brief the Commandant on the Commission’s current level of preparedness for the forthcoming Local Government elections in the state. He noted that, since assuming office as Chairman, he had been committed to improving the electoral process, drawing from his experience and exposure to electoral practices in Europe.

According to him, free, fair, and credible elections can be achieved in Nigeria through collective efforts and the active contributions of relevant institutions, particularly at the grassroots level where democracy begins.

The PLASIEC Chairman therefore appealed for sustained security support from the Corps throughout the electoral process, stressing that robust security deployment is critical to ensuring a peaceful, credible, and violence-free election across the 17 Local Government Areas of the state.

In his response, Commandant Ishaku Musa appreciated the Chairman and his entourage for the visit and assured them of the Corps’ readiness to provide the necessary security support whenever its services are required.

The Commandant further assured the PLASIEC Chairman that NSCDC personnel will always conduct themselves with the highest level of professionalism, discipline, and impartiality before, during, and after the elections.

He reiterated the Corps’ commitment to working in synergy with PLASIEC and other sister security agencies to safeguard electoral personnel, materials, critical infrastructure, and other strategic assets throughout the electoral process.

CDPRO
PLATEAU STATE COMMAND, JOS

Hon. Amos Gombi
Director General, Yusuf Adamu Gagdi 2027 Campaign Council

Dear Hon. Amos Gombi

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR APPOINTMENT AS DIRECTOR GENERAL

We are writing to express our warmest congratulations to you on your well-deserved appointment as Director General of the Yusuf Adamu Gagdi 2027 Campaign Council.

This appointment is a clear testimony of your leader, political acumen, unwavering dedication, and the deep trust reposed in you to steer this vital campaign. Over the years, your track record of excellence, strategic focus, and courage have set you apart as a formidable force to be reckoned with in Plateau politics.

Leading a campaign council of this magnitude, is a huge responsibility, but we have no doubt that under your guidance, the campaign will be driven with unity and great succes. Your ability to bridge gaps, inspire the youth and deliver results, make you the ideal person to lead this mandate towards victory.

As you step into this crucial role, we wish you wisdom, strength, anr sound health. May your efforts be crowned with resounding victory as you work towards actualizing the vision of Rt.Hon. Yusufu Adamu Gagdi for Pankshin, Kanke, Kanam 2027.

Please accept our highest regards, and best wishes for a successful campaign tenure.

Warm regards

Gwot Mulut

‎
‎Freelance Reporters,Jos
‎
‎Jos, August 30, 2026 — Former Special Assistants (SAs) on ICT to former Plateau State Governor, Distinguished Senator Simon Bako Lalong (2018–2023), reunited in Jos for a strategic forum focused on party engagement, state development, and future unity.
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‎Historically dubbed the “Lalong Boys” and “Data Boys” by political opponents, the forum convened under the leadership of its pioneer Director-General of PICTDA and current President/CEO of the Digital Bridge Institute, David Daser.
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‎Key takeaways and strategic outcomes from the meeting include:
‎Reunion & Internal Unity: Members resolved past differences to rebuild an indivisible family structure focused on long-term party engagement and collective empowerment.
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‎Party & Governance Engagement: The forum outlined plans to engage directly with state and federal APC leadership to ensure members are integrated into governance and strategic operations.
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‎Unanimous Endorsement: The group formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and declared total support for all APC candidates (APC Sak / 5-of-5) for the 2027 general elections.
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‎Mobilization Goals: Aligning with the City Boy Movement, the group set a target to help deliver over one million votes for the APC presidential and state line-ups.

‎The forum plans to roll out a series of engagement activities in the coming weeks as a recognized support group for the All Progressives Congress.

CONGRATULATIONS OUR DEAR LEADER PROF. NENTAWE YILWATDA ON YOUR EMERGENCE AS BLUEPRINT MAN OF THE YEAR 2026

I heartily congratulate our dear leader the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, on his well-deserved emergence as the Blueprint Newspaper Man of the Year. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his exemplary leadership, dedication to national development, and remarkable contributions to the growth and strengthening of democratic governance in Nigeria.

I was honoured to be in Abuja in attendance as this distinguished recognition was conferred on him. His emergence as Man of the Year reflects the confidence Nigerians and the media have in his leadership and vision. I celebrate Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda on this milestone and pray that Almighty God continues to grant him wisdom, strength and good health as he provides purposeful leadership to our great party and contributes to the progress of our dear nation.

Once again Congratulations sir 🎊Hon. Gwani Muhammad Adam Alkali OON
Former Member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal constituency of Plateau State
18/08/2026

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has stressed that there is no local government area in the state that is under the control of bandits and terrorists, despite the security challenges bedeviling the state.

Governor Mutfwang disclosed this at an interactive session with journalists at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, on Tuesday.

No Plateau Local Government Area is under the control of bandits. But before now, Wase and Kanam LGAs were, and they have been pushed out by the military,” Mutfwang said.

According to the governor, contrary to what the outside world is made to believe, Plateau is relatively safer than other states in the North, emphasizing that despite pockets of violence witnessed in some local government areas, the government has made progress in ensuring peace in the state

The governor further reiterated his support for state policing, explaining that such an initiative will go a long way in preventing incessant attacks and the killing of innocent persons.

While reiterating his support for state police, he also promised to revamp Operation Rainbow to complement the efforts of Operation Safe Haven and other security agencies in the state.

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

In a significant gesture of collaboration for peace and security, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN (Comd OPSH), paid a courtesy call on the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, at the Governor’s office in Little Rayfield, Jos on Tuesday 4 February 2025. During the visit, the GOC reaffirmed his commitment to a fair and just approach in addressing the state’s security challenges, aiming to foster a peaceful environment for all citizens.

In his address, Major General Oyinlola emphasized the necessity of maintaining and building upon the achievements of his predecessor in ensuring stability within the Joint Operations Area (JOA) of Plateau and its neighboring regions. “Our priority is not just to maintain the existing peace in the state but also to enhance it, ensuring that all parties involved feel secure and supported,” he stated.

The GOC’s remarks underscored a people-centric approach to security operations, which he defined as the combination of kinetic strategies—more traditional military engagements—and non-kinetic initiatives focusing on community engagement and dialogue. “The operations in Plateau State require a multi-faceted approach,” he added. “We must involve all stakeholders and ensure that their voices are heard in our quest for lasting peace.”

Governor Caleb Mutfwang while welcoming the GOC, expressed his appreciation for the GOC’s visit and pledged the full support of the state government to aid in his mission. “We consider you a critical partner in progress, and together we aspire to return Plateau State to its pre-crisis status, a land renowned as the true home of peace and tourism in Nigeria,” Mutfwang stated, underscoring the partnership between the military and the state government in addressing security concerns.

The governor also acknowledged the efforts of the immediate past GOC, attributing the peaceful Christmas celebration of 2024 to his dedicated interventions. “His contributions to peace and security were paramount in ensuring a harmonious festive season for our communities,” stated Mutfwang.

Highlighting the dual nature of the security challenges in the state, the governor noted the importance of employing both hard and soft approaches. “A multi-faceted strategy is essential to not only combat violence but also to promote understanding and cooperation among our communities,” he reiterated. Governor Mutfwang called on the citizens of Plateau State to embrace peace and work collectively towards a more secure future, reassuring them of the state government’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Plateau State, the Secretary to the State Government, honorable commissioners, and members of the Plateau State Executive Council, along with commanders and staff officers from the 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN. The occasion was marked by the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, commemorating the collaborative spirit between the military and the state government.

Major General Oyinlola’s visit to Governor Mutfwang signals a renewed commitment to peace and security in Plateau State. With the GOC’s assurance of fairness and the governor’s support, there is hope for a more secure and harmonious Plateau, where the communities can collectively thrive and restore their historic legacy as a beacon of peace and tourism in Nigeria. As both leaders echoed the need for unity and proactive measures, the future looks promising for the people of Plateau State.


ALIYU DANJA
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director
Army Public Relations
3 Division Nigerian Army

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

HRH Nde Solomon B. Sekat, the 9th Ngolong Kor,Headquarters of GUNG DISTRICT,Pankshin Local Government Area has died at the age of 100 years.

Prince Rotdunna Sekat, the son of the late Monarch, in an official statement released on Monday, said their patriarch, who was admitted in the Hospital before his demise, died on Saturday 25/1/2025 in a private Hospital in Jos.

He was 100 years of age and 51 years on throne as Ngolong Kor.

“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.

“My brothers, sisters, and I shared him with the rest of the family and Kor Community through these common beliefs.

“The Kor as a community is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs,” Prince Rotdunna Sekat said.

The late Ngolong Kor, was a minner,trader and a farmer before ascending his father’s throne as Ngolong Kor in 1974 after his elder brother, Nde Fwatkum D. Sekat who served as Ngolong Kor from 1960-1974 abandoned the throne for his trading business.

Under his reign as Ngolong Kor, Nde Solomon B. Sekat led Kor Community to construct Kor – Pankshin Road,organizes the first Pus Kang Kor, and he lobbied and attracted the construction of LGEA Primary School, and a PHC Clinic.
Under his reign, Government Secondary School Kor was established.

My father’s departure is a great loss, not only to us the immediate family and community but to the entire Pankshin and the Ngas Land at large. His reign was marked by wisdom, peace, and total commitment to the development and unity of his people. He was a father to all, a bridge between generations, and a leader whose dedication to justice and fairness earned him the love and respect of many.

My father was a custodian of our rich cultural heritage, a beacon of hope for his people, and a true patriot whose leadership brought progress and harmony.

His wise counsel, humility, and deep love for his people will be greatly missed. The void he leaves behind will be difficult to fill, but his legacy of selfless service and commitment to the well-being of his people will continue to inspire us.

My father had decided against “additional medical intervention” following a series of brief hospital visits, Prince Rotdunna Sekat said in a statement.
His Royal Highness will be laid to rest this February as preparation for his burial is in top gear.

May his Soul Rest In Peace with the Lord Amen.

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

Plateau State University has received a tractor donation from the State Government, strengthening its commitment to expanding agricultural training and production programs. Vice Chancellor Professor Shedrack Best commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for the donation, which aims to enhance the university’s agricultural capabilities.

The tractor donation is part of the Governor’s agricultural transformation plan, specifically the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape Project. The initiative seeks to improve agricultural training and production across the state. Governor Mutfwang on January 20 expressed his administration’s commitment to mechanize agriculture in Plateau State, lamenting only 0.05% is currently mechanized.

“We aim to take away the hoes and cutlasses and bring technology to meet the food needs of Plateau State,” said Governor Mutfwang, represented by Samson Bugama, the State’s Commissioner of Agriculture. The Governor announced plans to acquire more tractors, power tillers, and establish state plantations to encourage youths in agriculture.

“Last year, we cultivated 6,000 hectares but this year we’re looking at cultivating 15,000 hectares for vulnerable communities, schools in particular. So one of the things His Excellency has asked us to do is to go around secondary schools and cultivate their land just so we can build interest in agriculture,” the Governor said.  

“But the first thing we need to do is strengthen the institutions that help our young people to learn agriculture and takeaway the drudgery that comes with agriculture,” he said.

The university was among five institutions to receive tractors donated by the World Bank. Despite receiving only one unit, the university’s excitement was palpable. Vice Chancellor Best highlighted the university’s agricultural resources, including a dam, the Agricultural Services and Training Corporation (ASTC), and vast land.

“Our young students will be excited to see these machines. They will use it for learning. It will motivate them and there are other agricultural resources around us,” said Prof. Best.

“We are a rural university and we are located at the hub of agriculture. A lot of farming activity takes place there,” Professor Best said.

“So whether it is in research or in actual tillage of land or in animal husbandry, in all the areas, when we bring our faculty of Agriculture which is young and ambitious and growing into place, we believe that we have a lot to contribute including to other agencies who have benefited today from this gesture,” Professor Best stated.

*Masara Kim*
Acting Public Relations Officer
Plateau State University, Bokkos

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

In a bid to tackle Nigeria’s pressing democratic challenges and foster grassroots participation in leadership selection, Otunba Segun Showunmi, the convener of the National Opposition Movement Coalition, “The Alternative,” has unveiled the movement in the South-South region. The unveiling took place during a regional town hall meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Addressing an audience comprising political leaders, elder statesmen, women leaders, youth groups, and advocacy organizations, Showunmi emphasized the urgency of reorienting democracy in Nigeria. He called on citizens to unite in deciding the future of the nation, urging them to actively engage in political processes and hold leaders accountable.

“The best among us must step forward to lead the rest of us,” Showunmi declared, stressing the need for visionary and capable leadership. He highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive dialogue, where diverse viewpoints are encouraged without descending into chaos or undermining the nation’s unity.

“We can’t be a nation that interprets opposition responsibility to mean encouraging chaos or demarcating the country,” he stated. Instead, he called for a constructive opposition that offers viable alternatives to governance while working to address the nation’s challenges, including economic struggles and political instability.

Showunmi expressed concerns about the diminishing role of civic responsibility among Nigerians, urging citizens to remain committed to democratic principles. He underscored the importance of identifying quality leaders not only at the presidential level but also in the legislative arm, emphasizing that a functional Senate and House of Representatives are vital for good governance.

“Our focus should be on what kind of leaders we want, who we need, and how to inspire citizens to participate actively in democracy,” he said. He also called for reforms within political parties, advocating for inclusivity and transparency in party primaries.

Veteran actress and Rivers State Labour Party Chairman, Hilda Dokubo, echoed Showunmi’s sentiments, urging citizens to focus on grassroots issues. “Rivers State is in our hands; it is what we choose. Let no one distract us,” she said. Dokubo also highlighted the region’s economic contributions and the need for equitable distribution of resources.

Hon. Bright Ngola, National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Right Advocate, emphasized the role of a strong opposition in providing checks and balances. “Without a quality opposition, the same issues will persist even after the 2027 elections,” he warned, urging for a reawakening to end the cycle of suffering.

Chief Solsuema Osaro, Rivers State chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), called for harmony among opposition parties. He emphasized the need for ideological unity to inspire confidence among Nigerians and create a robust opposition capable of challenging the status quo.

Other political party chairmen who where present at the townhall meeting including, Hon Ben Ogbobula of Zenith Labour Patty, Hon Jim Jaja of NRM and Hon Godson of NNPP, also echoed Showunmi’s call for a strong opposition. A recurring theme at the meeting was the need for greater inclusion of women in politics. Participants criticized the limited roles assigned to women in political parties and called for reforms to increase their participation in decision-making processes. “How can women excel as CEOs of banks but be sidelined in political leadership?” one speaker questioned.

The South-South town hall meeting is part of a nationwide series of regional gatherings under the banner of “The Alternative.” Previous meetings have been held in Abuja, Plateau, Bauchi, and Kano, with plans to expand to other regions. The goal, according to Showunmi, is to create a national paradigm shift in democratic conversations.

“This is not just about politics; it’s about reawakening our consciousness for the common good of Nigerian citizens,” he stated. The movement seeks to empower citizens to take ownership of the political process, emphasizing the need for unity, transparency, and a collective vision for the nation’s future.

As the conversation continues, Showunmi urged Nigerians to prioritize competence and integrity in leadership selection. He noted that while 2027 may seem distant, the groundwork for meaningful change must begin now. “The earlier we start searching for the character that will lead us, the better,” he said.

The event concluded with a commitment from participants to work together in building a strong, unified opposition capable of offering Nigerians credible alternatives in governance. With the South-South region now onboard, “The Alternative” movement continues its march toward reimagining democracy in Nigeria.