AT 2021 CHRISTMAS CAROL, GOVERNOR LALONG PREACHES LOVE AND HOPE

It was a night of colour and glamour as various choral groups performed at thec 2021 Carol of 9 lessons organised by the Government House Chapel, Jos to mark the Christmas celebration.

Governor Simon Bako Lalong who was accompanied to the event by First Lady Mrs. Regina Lalong said the Christmas season is one that continues to maintain its relevance to not only Christians, but people of other faiths.

He said “This season is one that rekindles our hope in Christ and in our Nation despite the challenges that we are passing through. Rather than be overwhelmed, we have to be strengthened by the fact that Christ came to the world to give us assurance of victory and hope”.

Lalong urged Nigerians not to despair because during his mission on earth, Jesus Christ passed through many tribulations and also warned his followers to expect similar challenges in their journey of faith. The most important legacy Christ left to the world according to him is the assurance of victory over the devil and eternal salvation.

Lalong said Plateau State has so much to thank God for because of it recorded a lot of victories despite the challenges from Covid-19 pandemic and the breach of peace witnessed in some Local Government Areas. God he said gave the Government the grace to contain the situation and restore peace within a short time.

He said “As believers, it is our duty to ensure that we follow His footsteps by embracing people from every background and tolerating one another. Our stand as a Government is that so long as people are ready to abide by the laws of the land and respect the culture and traditions of Plateau State, they are welcome to live and pursue legitimate businesses in the State”.

He warned that his Government will never tolerate criminals who come to destabilise the State through their criminal activities with some using religion, ethnicity and politics to further create crises in the State in order to pursue their selfish ends. He said they will never be allowed room to turn Plateau State to a crises zone.

Also speaking, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda said the season of Christmas provides another opportunity for people to forgive and share their wealth with one another. He also urged Nigerians to pray for their leaders.

In a goodwill message on behalf of heads of security agencies, the GOC 3rd Armoured Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven Gen. Ibrahim Ali said the Governor has directed security agencies to carry out robust deployment of personnel and also ensure that they dominate critical flashpoints to prevent crimes from taking place.

He urged the citizens to continue to love one another, expose criminals, remain vigilant and pray for the peace and unity of the nation.

In their remarks, Acting Chief Judge of Plateau State Justice David Mann, Representative of the State Traditional Council, and the Vice Chairman of CAN Plateau State all said the essence of Christmas is for love and unity which is rooted in the lifestyle of Jesus who essentially came to save the world.

Chairman PFN Plateau State Rev. Steve Dangana prayed for the Governor, President and other leaders of the nation.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State.
22nd December 2021.

COMMINIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE PLATEAU STATE POLICY REVIEW RETREAT FOR COMMISSIONERS, PERMANENT SECRETARIES, ADVISERS & HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS/AGENCIES HELD AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE LITTLE RAYFIELD JOS, 21-22 DECEMBER 2021

As a way of establishing the level of implementation of the Plateau State Development Strategy, by assessing and evaluating the performance of Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, the Plateau State Government in collaboration with GIZ organized a two-day Policy Review Retreat for State Executive Council Members, Permanent Secretaries, Chief Executives/Chairmen of Boards and Parastatals and Special Advisers to the Executive Governor of Plateau State on Tuesday 21st to Wednesday 22nd December 2021 at the Banquet Hall, New Government House, Rayfield.

The event was declared open by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Simon Bako Lalong, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Sonni G. Tyoden who appreciated the level of implementation of the resolutions contained in last year’s communique where 12 resolutions out of 13 were already implemented. This success was attributed to the determination and synergy between Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. All participants were engaged to come up with resolutions that would move the state forward.

At the end of the retreat, the following resolutions were arrived at:

1. The Rescue Administration restated its determination to complete outstanding all critical projects currently being implemented, thus, all projects and programmes will be carefully prioritized to ensure that the identified critical ones are completed within the tenure of this administration.

2. All MDAs must put all hands on deck to ensure that the commitment to create jobs that will take 20,000 youths out of the unemployment market between now and 2022.

3. All MDAs to explore other alternative sources of funds for implementing critical projects and programmes. Towards this end, the option of Public Private Partnership and donor funding shall be embraced much more strategically going forward.

4. The Retreat resolved to adopt the State Monitoring and Evaluation Policy and Law, which will ensure self-tracking of projects and programmes, resulting in quarterly review sessions going forward.

5. The four policy sub-councils to further meet before 31st December 2021 as syndicates to consider all inputs, recommendations and suggestions made at the retreat in order to review all the projects and programmes of MDAs under their respective purviews, with the aim of restructuring, rejigging and rescoping them within the time frame left for this administration, and to also come up with practical implementation strategies for delivering same.


Prof. Danladi Abok Atu
Secretary to the Government of the State
Jos
022nd December 2021

GOVERNOR CELEBRATES ITF DG JOSEPH ARI AT 61

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has extended warm felicitations to Director General of the Industrial Training Fund Sir Joseph Ari, KSM on the occasion of his 61st birthday.

Lalong described Sir Ari as a consummate professional who has deployed his vast knowledge and experience in various fields over the years to the service of the State and nation at large.

He said “from your early training as a media professional, you have not only distinguished yourself as an administrator, but also developed your capacity to become a human resource developer and trainer with very impressive results to show. You have used the opportunity of your current appointment as DG to take the ITF to greater heights in the duty of giving young Nigerians skills and entrepreneurship capacity”.

The Governor also commended Sir Ari for his passion for the development of Plateau State and the success of the Rescue Administration through offering sound counsel and collaborating with the Government to train and empower thousands of youths in various vocational skills thereby reducing unemployment and idleness.

While urging him to sustain his acts of charity and devotion to God, the Governor wished him many more years of good health, divine protection and favour.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
21st December 2021

GOVERNOR LALONG INAUGURATES TASK FORCE ON VACCINATION; FLAGS OFF MASS COVID-19 VACCINATION.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has appealed to the citizens of the State to embrace vaccination against COVID-19 and other diseases in order to ensure that the healthcare of the State is fortified against preventable diseases.

Governor Lalong who also took his booster jab for COVID-19 made the appeal while inaugurating the Task Force on Integrated Vaccination and Flagging off the Mass Vaccination at the Banquet Hall of the new Government House Rayfield Jos.

Lalong said the inauguration of the task force became necessary to ensure that there is consistent and coordinated Vaccination in the State against both COVID-19 and other diseases.

He said “The Taskforce which we are inaugurating today has a  membership that consists of health professionals and eminent stakeholders from across the State with the mandate to create the desired attention required for prompt sensitization and consolidation of achieved gains in the area of vaccination. I am mandating all Local Government Chairmen to oversee their respective LGA Task Forces for successful immunization in order to deliver effective rural health care services to the people”.

Speaking on the flag-off of Covid-19 Mass Vaccination Campaign in Plateau State, the Governor said “You will recall that since our index case was reported and confirmed on 17th April, 2020, Plateau State has recorded 10,002 positive cases with 73 deaths in all 17 LGAs as at 12th December 2021. Our administration responded promptly and with all vigour which ensured that 9,962 cumulative confirmed cases were managed and discharged, leaving only 35 infected persons still receiving and responding to treatment”.

Lalong also announced that the Plateau State Government vaccine mandate is that all citizens of 18 years and above will henceforth show evidence of vaccination or present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result done within 72 hours to gain access to any public office. This will also go hand in hand with observing all protocols in schools, markets, banks, weddings, churches, mosques etc.

These measures according to him are not punitive nor intended to force people to take the vaccines against their wishes. They are simply meant to ensure public safety and guarantee the health of the people against this ravaging pandemic.

Commissioner for Health Dr. Nimkong Lar said the vaccines are safe and not harmful contrary to conspiracy theories, reiterating that no one will be forced to take the vaccine. He emphasized that the Ministry was also concerned about other diseases aside COVID-19 which need more sensitization for vaccination.

The Long Gamai of Shendam Miskoom Martins Shaldas, Chairman JNI, Chairman CAN, and other stakeholders assured that they will do their best to sensitise and mobilise their people flto cooperate with the Government towards achieving desired goals.

Unicef representative in Plateau State Dr. Wazingi Williams presented the global, national and State outlook of the pandemic and its management, urging citizens to make themselves available for the vaccine which is a major way of containing the virus that is still being studied.

Responding on behalf of the Task Force, Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Tyoden assured that the members will put in their best to ensure that the State achieved its objectives.

Health officials were at hand to administer the vaccines to those who were taking it for the first time and others who were taking the second jab or the booster.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
20th December 2021.

APC NATIONAL CHAIRMANSHIP : GOVERNOR LALONG RECIEVES GEORGE AKUME CONTACT TEAM

A Contact and Mobilization Team for Senator George Akume who is an aspirant for the office of the APC National Chairman has visited Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House Rayfield to intimate him on the aspirations of the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs and also seek his support.

Leader of the delegation Senator Jack Tilley Gyado said the aim of the visit was to formally intimate him on the desire of Senator Akume to occupy the number one seat of the APC and also let him know that Plateau State has a key to his success.

He said Plateau State remains a big brother to Benue and Governor Lalong in particular has shown tremendous goodwill and support to the people of Benue State which saw the party winning elections in the State in 2014, untill the current Governor defected.

Gyado said Senator Akume is eminently qualified for the APC Chairmanship and will not only consolidate its hold in the North Central, but across the entire country, giving his vast experience in politics and wide connections.

He said the APC is in need of a strong leader like Senator Akume to move into the 2023 elections and ensure victory for the party in all elections.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Contact and Mobilization Committee Chief Simon Shango said Governor Lalong remains a leader of the APC family in Benue State giving the fact that the mandate of the party was stolen by the current Governor who defected to the opposition party.

Responding, Governor Lalong welcomed the team and reminded them that Plateau and Benue States still share fraternal relationships that bind them together for every endeavour even in politics.

He said having worked closely with Senator Akume for many years, he is not in doubt of his capacity to make the APC greater if given the opportunity to lead the party.

Lalong assured the team of his support and advised them to work hard not only for the victory of Senator Akume, but also for retrieving the stolen mandate of the APC from the opposition party in the 2023 elections.

He said the party still remains strong in the State, assuring them that more will be done to ensure that there is victory at the end of the day.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
21st December 2021.

NORTHERN GOVERNORS COMMEND ARMED FORCES FOR ONSLAUGHT AGAINST TERRORISTS; URGE THEM TO SUSTAIN TEMPO

The Northern Governors Forum has lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for stepping up their operations against bandits and insurgents terrorising various parts of the country particularly the North East, North Central and North West.

Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong in a statement said the Forum appreciates the recent efforts of the security personnel for carrying out operations across the affected areas of the North East, North Central and North West. He said the ongoing operations in areas of Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna States among others where bandits and insurgents who have been terrorising the citizens are dislodged is very commendable.

Lalong said the Forum wants the operations to be sustained and further coordinated to ensure that the terrorists do not shift their bases after been dislodged from current areas. This he said will make sure the terrorists are completely subdued and restrained from regrouping for law and order to prevail across the country.

Lalong also condemned the recent attacks by terrorists in various Local Governments of Kaduna State, Wase Local Government of Plateau State, Askira Uba and other Local Government of Borno, Niger States among others where innocent citizens were gruesomely murdered and many properties destroyed.

While commiserating with the families of those killed and surviving victims, the Forum reiterated its commitment to continue to provide succour to the affected and also work with the Federal Government for further humanitarian interventions.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State and Chairman Northern Governors Forum.
20th December 2021.

Notable personalities honored as Plateau Bloggers/Online Media Association Hold End of Year Dinner/Recognition Night

The Plateau bloggers/online media association(PLABOMA) on Friday 17th December 2021 hosted its members, guests, and dignitaries to their end-of-year dinner for the year ending 2021.

It was an exclusive evening of glamour and celebration as premium guests in attendance were hosted to a grand dinner reception and thrilled to an entertaining evening at the Prestigious Elial Centre in Jos. 

The Association (PLABOMA) recognized some key individuals and organizations that have furthered the course of the information communication technology ecosystem in the state, region and nation at large with special recognition awards. Others were also recognized for their notable contribution to humanity and for exceptional impact within and outside Plateau state.

While delivering his opening remarks, Chairman of the occasion, the member representing Riyom/Barkin Ladi federal constituency in the Federal House of Assembly, Hon Simon Mwatkon Phd. spoke on the challenges and gains of the social media in the present contemporary society. 

Hon Mwatkon said he was however moved to support the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association as he has noted with delight how members have tried in disseminating effective information.

Also welcoming guests, Chairman of the Association, Comrade Friday Bako, said though this was the first ever gathering of the association for the end of Year Dinner and Award Night, citizens should expect more coming next year as the association will look to mark a social media day. He noted that the association was birthed  to harmonize the activities of social media influencers and curb online fake news. 

Comrade Bako however called for more support for the Plateau Bloggers/Online Media Association in setting up a secretariat and for individuals and businesses to partner with bloggers and Online influencers as it offers so much opportunities.

There was also a Life time recognition and a minute silence observed for late Miss Loisinta Vou Pwol, a former PLABOMA Executive and Publisher of the The State of Plateau Blog who passed on earlier in the year.

High point of the event was the presentation of Recognition and Excellence Awards to Ngo Sarah Dagah ( De Sele Jos ), Barr. Gyang Zi, Lt. Col. Samuel Fwanje Gulong (Rtd), Chief Ayuba Gufwan Burki who all bagged an award of Excellence for Humanitarian Service.

Dr. Kenneth Egwuda, Hon. Fom Gwottson Dalyop, Hon. (Dr) Mafeng Gwallson, Mr. David Daser, Mr. Joseph Lengmang and Dr. Haggai Gutap, Dr. Chris Kwaja and Da Yakubu Taddy were all recognized with a Special Recognition for Exceptional Impact Award.

Other Awardees with Special Recognition for Exceptional Impact Award also included Dr. Sumaye Hamza, Maj. Gen. Chukwuemeka Okonkwo, Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Sallau Ali and Sergeant Solomon Johnson

The Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association is the recognized Umbrella body that houses all professional bloggers and online journalists in Northern Nigeria.

PLATEAU STATE GOVERNOR LIFTS CURFEW IN JOS NORTH, JOS SOUTH & BASSA LGAs.

The Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has directed the total lifting of the existing curfew in Jos North, Jos South, and Bassa Local Government Areas earlier imposed on September 8th 2021, from 10pm to 6am as part of efforts to curb the insecurity witnessed some months ago.

The Governor gave the directive after a State Security Council Meeting held at the Government House Rayfield Jos where the Council reviewed the security situation in the affected Local Government Areas and the State in general.

On the strength of deliberations at the meeting and the advise of the Security Council, the Governor directed that the existing curfew be lifted with effect from Friday 17th December 2021 until further notice.

He directed that in place of the curfew, the relevant security agencies should mount well coordinated and round the clock checks in strategic areas of the State to ensure the safety of lives and properties of the people during the yuletide season.

He advised the security agencies to ensure that they deploy security personnel throughout the State and gather requisite intelligence to thwart any attempt  by criminals who might want to perpetrate their nefarious activities during the season and cause a breach of the peace.

Meanwhile, the total ban on motorcycles within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis is still in force while their operations in other Local Government Areas will stop at 8pm. Tricycles within the metropolis will continue to operate on the existing template of 6am to 6pm only.

While commending the citizens for their patience, understanding and cooperation during the period of the curfew, Lalong urged them to be security conscious and highly vigilant against any suspected criminal activity in their domains, which should be reported quickly to security agencies to enable them take swift action.

He also praised the security agencies for their sacrifices and patriotic service, urging them to continue to do more as the State Government will do its best to support them in carrying out their mandate of securing lives and properties.

He wished the citizens a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year ahead.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
17th December 2021.

SHOPRITE TEAM VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG; TO ESTABLISH FRANCHISE IN JOS IN 2022

The Management team of Shoprite has visited Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House, Rayfield Jos to discuss plans for establishing the first outlet in the State.

Leading the team to the Government House, Chairman of Retail Supermarket Nigeria group, Mr. Tayo Amusan said they were in Plateau State as part of the plans for its rollout in 2022 which will see them developing the Jos City Mall that will house Shoprite and other businesses.

He said the group is attracted by the huge potentials of Plateau State in terms of agricultural products, serene environment, huge  market and opportunities for growth.

Plateau State he said is a natural attraction for tourists and visitors who need shopping and recreational facilities that the organisation is capable of providing in the planned roll out. Apart from Shoprite, there will be other facilities of the Jara  brand to be rolled out.

He appreciated Governor Lalong for his determination and keen interest in facilitating the coming of the business conglomerate to Plateau State, assuring that they will take advantage of the favourable business environment currently obtainable in the State to make sure that the plan succeeds.

Governor Lalong in a response said he was delighted with the visit of the group which was long overdue because Plateau State is a business destination and a home for all Nigerians and foreigners.

He said his administration has done a lot to restore peace and security which has attracted more investors into the State and removed fear of the past.

He informed the group that there is more access for export and import into the State with the approval for the upgrading of the Yakubu Gowon Airport Heipang into an international cargo airport.

The Governor also disclosed that Plateau State has also acquired the Inland Container Depot in Heipang which will also serve as the hub for the Nigerian Shippers Council operations.

The company later signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the possible use of the old Nitel building which has been acquired by the Plateau Investment and Property Development Company for the development of the proposed facility.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
17th December 2021.

NORTHERN GOVERNORS CONGRATULATE GOVERNOR SANI BELLO AT 54

The Northern Governors Forum has congratulated Niger State Governor and Chairman of the North Central Governors Forum Abubakar Sani Bello on the occasion of his 54th birthday.

In a message to congratulate him, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong described Governor Bello as a very active and supportive politician who has devoted significant attention to the development of his State, the region and nation as a whole.

He said as the Chairman of the North Central Governors Forum, Governor Abubakar has demonstrated deep passion for the development of the region and continues to provide the needed leadership to his colleagues to be able to come together and tackle the challenges confronting the people.

Governor Lalong said the Governor has also remained steadfast in deploying every available strategy and effort in ensuring that the insecurity confronting Niger State is addressed in order to enable the citizens pursue their livelihood without fear, harassment or intimidation.

Lalong said despite the challenges, Governor Bello has continued to carry out developmental projects in various sectors and also galvanised the people to resist the schemes of those trying to cause instability in the State and the region as a whole.

While wishing him many more years of God’s wisdom and good health, Governor Lalong admonished him to continue to put the interest of the people above every consideration as he has done over the years and also sustain his passion for the unity, peace, cohesion and stability of not only the Northern Region, but Nigeria as a whole.

He assured him that the Northern Governors Forum will continue to support him as he serves the people of Niger State.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum.
17th December 2021