Category: News

GOV MUTFWANG DECLARES 3 DAYS OF MOURNING FOR THE VICTIMS OF SAINT SCHOOL BUILDING COLLAPSE

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

The government ordered that all flags within the state be flown at half-mast during the three-day mourning which starts from July 13 to July 15

The Plateau State government has declared three days of mourning for lives lost in the Saint Academy School building collapse on Friday.

The state government has ordered that all flags within the state be flown at half-mast during the three-day mourning which starts from July 13 to July 15 in honour of the school building collapse victims.

This was made known in a statement signed by the Plateau State Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, on Saturday.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who visited the school on Saturday, extended his heartfelt condolences to families affected by the devastating incident and urged citizens to strictly follow building codes and ethics to prevent such tragedies.

“We offer our deepest sympathies and unwavering support to those affected during this incredibly difficult time. We are dedicated to providing the best possible medical care for the injured and will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the collapse,” Muftwang said.

“The safety and well-being of our citizens, especially our children, is our top priority. We urge all schools to comply with safety regulations and secure the necessary approvals from the JMDB before beginning any construction projects.”

He asked the developers and property owners to submit their building plans to the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) for verification and revalidation, as part of the enforcement of Executive Order 003.

MINISTER ORDERS INVESTIGATION INTO SAINT  ACADEMY BUILDING COLLAPSE

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Ahmed Dangiwa, has directed an immediate and comprehensive investigation to ascertain the cause of the collapse of the Saint Academy School building in the Busa Buji area of Plateau State on Friday,

A statement by the Minister described the collapse as yet another unfortunate tragedy for the nation due to the negligence and unscrupulous behavior of certain individuals during the construction process.

“Unfortunately, the issue of building collapse has once again reared its ugly head in our nation. This is unacceptable because every time something like this happens, there’s a mother or father who has lost a child, a child who has lost a parent, or an individual who has lost a sibling or friend”. The minister stated.

The statement gives an assurance that anyone found wanting in the cause of the incident would be brought to book.

It further reiterates its committed to ensuring that the incidence of building collapse is prevented in the future by collaborating with relevant agencies to enforce building standards and regulations in the country.

The statement expresses condolence to the family of the victims and prays God gives them the fortitude to bear the loss.

Dangiwa emphasized the ministry’s commitment to preventing future collapses by enforcing building standards and regulations, and gave the assurance that the investigation would be thorough, and that those found culpable would face prosecution.

Saint Academy closed indefinitely
The Plateau state governor, Caleb Mutfwang, ordered the immediate closure of the school.

The Governor gave the order on Saturday morning when he visited the site of the collapsed building, which saw 22 students killed and more than 130 injured.

The governor went round the school premises, with the principal and staff.

“It is unfortunate what has happened but of course what it means is that this school is closed down immediately. We can’t take any further chances and we need to send this message particularly to owners of private schools,” Muftwang said.

Bodies have been deposited in different mortuaries, while injured persons continue to receive life saving treatment, as Governor Muftwang directed priority to be given to the victims, regardless of documentation or payment.

Mutfwang also ordered the arrest of artisanal miners, mining around residential areas in the state.

President Bola Tinubu described the death of the 22 students as a huge loss to the nation, as well as a “devastating development—too excruciating to imagine.”

Radio Nigeria reported several people were killed and many injured when a two-storey building in Saint Academy Secondary School collapsed while students were writing their third term examination.

PRESIDENT TINUBU SYMPATHISES WITH VICTIMS OF PLATEAU SCHOOL BUILDING COLLAPSE

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

President Bola Tinubu has described the death of 22 students in a collapsed building in Plateau State as a huge loss to the nation, as well as a “devastating development—too excruciating to imagine.”

In a statement by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu condoled the families of the victims, and the government of Plateau State.

He commended first responders, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), security agencies, and all those involved in the search, rescue, and resuscitation efforts and assured his support “at this difficult time.”

A school building at The Saint Academy collapsed, which resulted in multiple deaths and left many injured in Jos, Plateau State.

AS FORBES HONOURS GOV MUTFWANG, OTHERS FOR EXCEPTIONAL VISIONARY LEADERSHIP

AS FORBES HONOURS GOV MUTFWANG, OTHERS FOR EXCEPTIONAL VISIONARY LEADERSHIP
By Golu Timothy
More accolades have continued to trail the Governor of Plateau State, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang as Forbes, the leading global media group has honoured him as one of the three best Nigerian governors providing good governance. Alongside his Bayelsa and Osun State counterparts, Senators Diri Douye and Ademola Adeleke respectively, all of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the global media company has rated the performances of the three governors as worthy of world recognition and commendation.
While Diri of Bayelsa state is a two-term governor who just kick started his second term in February 2024, Ademola and Mutfwang are first term governors. Ademola is getting to three years in office while Mutfwang is barely a year in office. The Plateau governor effectively assumed office in January 2024 after a protracted legal battle over the 2023 governorship tussle which ended early 2024.
The letter addressed to the Governor dated …… and signed by Mark A Furlong, reads, “It is with great pleasure that Forbes Media and the creators of Forbes Best of Africa from America
wish to inform you that you have been nominated for the FORBES BEST OF AFRICA
VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AWARD”.
For years Forbes has been monitoring and assessing governments across the globe as a way of encouraging good governance and through its awards, Forbes acknowledges and celebrates exemplary leaders, top businessmen,
political leaders and dynamic personalities with records of making far-reaching impacts and
positive contributions to the development of their respective countries, sectors and industries.
The letters adds,” Since your appointment( election emphasis mine)into office, you have exemplified exceptional leadership in managing the
state of affairs in Plateau State. Your strategic vision has not only fostered significant development
within the state but has also set a benchmark for good governance in Nigeria.
Implementation of significant
reforms and policies that has positively impacted the socio-economic landscape of Plateau State.
Demonstrating transparency, accountability, and good governance
practices, thereby fostering a culture of integrity and ensuring the effective use of public resources.
Successfully attracting domestic and foreign investments into
Plateau State, contributing to job creation and economic growth.
Significant contributions to the development of critical
infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals, which has enhanced the quality of
life for the citizens.
Community Programs and projects aimed at improving the living standards
of the people, especially in rural areas including your efforts in poverty alleviation, youth
empowerment, and social welfare.
Enhancing access to quality education and healthcare services,
which are fundamental for sustainable development.
Conflict Resolution and Effective measures to address and mitigate conflicts within Plateau
State, promoting peace and stability.
Strengthening security infrastructure and strategies to ensure the
safety of residents, thereby creating a secure environment conducive to growth and development.
Demonstrating a clear vision for the future development of Plateau
State and implementing innovative solutions to address challenges.
Promoting environmental sustainability through policies and
projects that protect natural resources and promote green energy.
Previous awards and recognitions from reputable
organizations, which signify Governor Mutfwang’s contributions and impact, and many more, has provided a strong foundation for your consideration for the
Forbes Best of Africa Visionary Award.
For these reasons, the Forbes Best of Africa Award committee has decided to honour you with the
above mentioned award. The award would be conferred on you during the FIN annual International
Business Round Table and Forbes Best of Africa Award Ceremony. This prestigious event will be
held on the 28th of June 2024 ( Friday)at the Intercontinental Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal”.
The strategic essence and significance of this event cannot be overemphasised. It serves as a platform for global leaders,
industry titans, and visionaries to converge, exchange insights, and foster collaborations that drive
meaningful economic growth across continents.
According to Forbes, “Our aim is to facilitate strategic alliances that not
only benefit individual businesses but also contribute to the socio-economic development of
diverse regions”.
Previous recipients of this prestigious award includes; H.E Sam Matekane the Prime Minister of
Lesotho, Dr Adesola Adeduntan, MD of First Bank Nigeria, Paul Adefarasin, and many more.
Also to receive the Forbes African awards are the Senate President Godswills Akpabio, a former governor, foreign affaits Minister Tuggar Maitama Sule and other eminent leaders across the country. It is on record that only few Nigerian leaders have qualified for the Forbes global recognition so far, making it a great and lofty height for whoever has attained the feat.
Those invited at the global media event include: policy makers,
entrepreneurs, politicians, opinion leaders, the media partners, religious leaders and international
investors.
Dr Golu Timothy Is
Special Adviser To Governor Caleb Mutfwang On Strategic Communications

PLATEAU BLOGGERS AND ONLINE MEDIA ASSOCIATION (PLABOMA) SALUTES HON. PLANGJI CISHAK

PLATEAU BLOGGERS AND ONLINE MEDIA ASSOCIATION (PLABOMA) SALUTES HON. PLANGJI CISHAK

Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) is felicitating with the Chairman Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak as he marks yet another significant event in his life.

Your impact to democracy through your contributions to the electoral system are highly commendable.
As you hit the ground rounding at PLASIEC, we assure you of PLABOMA’s support to make you succeed in actualizing the mandate of your revered Office.

We believe you will bring the much needed reforms that will transform PLASIEC, make it more reputable and take it to enviable height by ensuring that free, fair and credible Local Government Elections are conducted to meet the aspirations of the People at the Grassroot.

Kindly accept our best wishes as you celebrate this significant milestone.

Friday Bako
Chairman, PLABOMA

PLABOMA FELICITATES WITH GYANG BERE,DOPA TO GOVERNOR CALEB MUTFWANG

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) is felicitating with Hon. Gyang Bere the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang on his birthday Anniversary.

PLABOMA notes with delight the immense contributions of Hon. Gyang Bere to journalism which have assisted in strengthening democracy and entrenching accountability and transparency.

Being the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State, he has also been making information on government’s policies to the Citizens available in a timely manner.

As an Association, we wish him the very best and pray for more glorious Years ahead.

Accept our best wishes.

Friday Bako
Chairman, PLABOMA

GOVERNOR MUTFWANG OUTLINES ACHIEVEMENTS AND VISION FOR PLATEAU STATE’S REVIVAL AND PROSPERITY

Governor Mutfwang Highlights Achievements and Future Goals for Plateau State at Media Parley

Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Commitment to Revitalizing Plateau State: A Vision for a Prosperous Future

Governor Mutfwang Outlines Achievements and Vision for Plateau State’s Revival and Prosperity

In a recent media parley held in Jos, Governor Caleb Mutfwang reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to transforming Plateau State into a beacon of prosperity and stability. Addressing journalists, Mutfwang outlined his administration’s extensive efforts to rebuild and lay a solid foundation for the state’s future, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to make Plateau better than it was found.

“We have no other agenda than to make Plateau better than we met it,” the governor stated. “We are focused on rebuilding the foundations that have been destroyed and laying new ones for the future Plateau we aspire towards.”

Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the stark realities reflected in various indices. “Whether it’s the poverty index or educational performance, Plateau State is below average,” he said, noting the state’s position of 29th out of 36 in several key metrics. “This should not be our story. Plateau’s story can be better, and we are determined to make it so.”

The governor expressed gratitude to the people of Plateau for their support and appreciation of his administration’s efforts. “We are not relaxing,” he assured. “We are determined to do more than what people have seen. We want to build a safe, peaceful, resilient, and prosperous Plateau that will become the pride of Nigeria.”

In discussing the security challenges, Governor Mutfwang highlighted the obstacles posed by the federal structure of Nigeria’s security apparatus. He emphasized that despite being the chief security officers of their states, governors do not command troops directly. “Directives have to come from Abuja, which complicates the response to local security challenges,” he explained.

Reflecting on the recent history, Mutfwang recalled the terror unleashed on Mangu and Bokkos three weeks before his inauguration. Despite efforts to contain the violence, sporadic attacks continued, culminating in the tragic events of December 24-26. “It’s a painful episode I cannot forget,” he lamented. However, he praised the support from President Tinubu and the vice president, which led to increased military engagement.

Mutfwang emphasized the importance of community resilience and intra- and inter-community relations in reducing criminal activities. “Today, we can say there is relative peace on the Plateau,” he noted, while cautioning that more work remains. “We will continue to bring out strategies to contain and forestall challenges.”

Governor Mutfwang detailed his administration’s ambitious plans for economic development, focusing on agriculture, tourism, and mining.

The governor announced the division of Plateau State into three agricultural zones, each specializing in different crops such as rice, yam, palm oil, Irish potatoes, maize, and fonio (acha). He stressed the importance of meeting international standards in food production to boost exports. “We are committed to reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing marketing opportunities through initiatives like the Plateau Commodities Market Company.”

Mutfwang highlighted the state’s rich tourism potential, mentioning sites like Wase Rock, Pandam Game Reserve, Asop Falls, Jos Wildlife Park, and the Jos Museum. He outlined plans to revive these attractions through private sector partnerships. “We aim to make tourism a significant economic driver,” he said, adding that the revival of the Jos Wildlife Park is a legacy project.

Describing mining as another crucial sector, Mutfwang noted that the mineral wealth of Plateau State remains largely untapped. “We need to create an enabling environment for investors,” he said, emphasizing the importance of benefiting the local population and tackling illegal mining activities.

Governor Mutfwang also addressed transportation, revealing the revitalization of the transport sector and the introduction of CNG metro buses. He mentioned ongoing efforts to improve urban transportation and the recent successful launch of a train service. “We are also pursuing the dualization of major roads and seeking federal cooperation to enhance connectivity.”

Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, the first female elected Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Plateau State Council, commended Governor Mutfwang for his transformative agenda. She appreciated his media-friendly disposition and the administration’s achievements, particularly in road infrastructure, urban renewal, and security.

“We congratulate you on the first-year anniversary of your administration and commend your efforts to turn around the fortunes of the state,” Pwaspo said. She also highlighted the need for continued support to state-owned media organizations and the completion of the NUJ House project, which will serve as a revenue source for the council.

Governor Mutfwang concluded by reaffirming his vision for a self-sufficient and prosperous Plateau State. “We aim to build an economy that is sustainable beyond oil revenue,” he stated, outlining plans for an agro-processing zone funded by the African Development Bank and the potential transformation of the state’s airport into a cargo hub for exports.

“We have made significant progress, but we still have a long way to go,” he said. “With continued support and concerted efforts, I believe we will realize not just the Nigeria of our dreams, but Plateau will be a major contributor to making that dream a reality.”

As Plateau State moves forward under Governor Mutfwang’s leadership, the focus remains on security, economic development, and community engagement, with the ultimate goal of creating a better future for all Plateau citizens.

PLABOMA CONGRATULATES GOV MUTFWANG AND HIS DEPUTY NGO PIYO ON THEIR ONE YEAR IN OFFICE

PLATEAU BLOGGERS & ONLINE ME

Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) is felicitating with the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang and the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Ngo Josephine Piyo as they mark their One Year in Office Today.

PLABOMA is commending your developmental strides that is transforming the State and your efforts toward entrenching good governance and providing democratic dividends to the Citizens of Plateau State.

We admonish you to accord greater attention to the security of the State and prioritize the welfare of the Citizens. We also urge you to redouble your unwavering commitment towards infrastructural developments as well as achieving your vision of bequeathing a more united, peaceful and prosperous State.

We also urge you to replicate the infrastructural interventions across all the Local Government Areas in order for the Citizens to have a feel of governance at all levels.

As a group, we will always ensure that your programmes and activities are made public for timely feedbacks to enhance accountability and transparency in governance.

Once again, congratulations and best wishes.

Friday Bako
Chairman, PLABOMA

NGAS NATION CONGRATULATES BARR. CALEB MUTFWANG ON FIRST YEAR IN OFFICE

By Jurme Shikdyit, Pankshin

The President General of Ngas Development Association (NDA), on behalf of the National Executive Committee, Ngas Elders Forum and the entire Ngas Nation heartily felicitates with the Executive Governor of Plateau State, HE. Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang on the auspicious occasion of his First Year in office as the Governor of Plateau State.

As a people, we celebrate God’s faithfulness and mercies in your life and acknowledge his benevolence of keeping you to see the first year of the mandate given to you by Plateau people.

Be assured of our prayers and support as you steer the ship of leadership of our dear state and we believe that the years ahead will be fruitful and memorable.

Congratulations Your Excellency and Happy Anniversary.

Dr. Katkukkah Danjuma Gokum.

President

REASON WHY 7 APC MEMBERS OF PLATEAU STATE ASSEMBLY WERE NOT SWORN IN — SPEAKER, DEWAN REVEALS

By Freelance Reporters, Jos.


Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan, the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, has given an explanation for why he only swore in nine of the sixteen members of the House who belong to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Following the dismissal of sixteen Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members from their seats by the Court of Appeal, sixteen members of the APC were reinstated to the House.

The APC is furious because the Speaker swore in nine members last week but left out seven.

Rt. Hon. Dewan gave an explanation for his actions on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday. He stated that the seven members still needed to finish the required steps in order to take the oath of office.

He said: “Sometime in November, there was a pronouncement in the court that 16 of my members have been removed by the Court of Appeal. A pronouncement in the court is different from the procedures in the House.

“I wasn’t in the court; I heard it on air that 16 members have been removed. There is no communication to me from the INEC or the CTC of the judgment for me to be sure that truly those members have been removed or anything.


“And I was waiting for that proper thing to be done, what did I get? Sometime in January, a lawyer, one S.O Obende or so, wrote a letter to my office attached with 16 certificates of return of members and I replied back that Obende is not a member of my Assembly. If the court has declared members elect the members know the normal procedure to follow.

“The right thing to be done was for INEC to write to me as the Speaker directing me that based on this judgement, attaching the communication with the CTC of the judgment that based on this judgement, we have been directed to withdraw the certificate of return from this honourable to these honourables. Therefore, we are directing you as the electoral umpire to recognise this person as your member that was never done.”

The Speaker added that, “Sometimes two weeks ago, I was told by those responsible for documentation in the House of Assembly that 9 members have submitted their certificates of return and have met all the requirements and I said okay.


“So, I don’t know if the CTC copies of the other members are not ready. So, what was presented to me was what I recognised and I swore them in.”


Dewan insisted that he could not formally inaugurate the remaining members as members of the House of Assembly unless they presented the certificates of return and the CTC copies of the rulings. Dewan urged those who were accusing him of being in contempt of court after some APC members said he was not following the ruling.

Furthermore, he insisted that he was merely making sure that due process was followed and refuted any political motivation for his actions