PLATEAU, EDO GOVERNORS, PRESIDENT COURT OF APPEAL LEAD OVER 400 GOLFERS TO JOS GOVERNOR’S TOURNAMENT

Governors Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State and his Edo State counterpart Godwin Obaseki as well as the President, Court of Appeal Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem are among hundreds of professional and amateur golfers participating in the Plateau Governor’s Golf Tournament at the Lamingo Golf Course in Jos.

Governor Lalong who took the tee-off alongside his Edo counterpart as well as other dignitaries, said the tournament has continued to grow in size and attracting more golfers from within and outside the country, thereby putting the State on the international golfing map.

He said the attendance this year is high because of the successes of the previous tournaments which brought in new talents and also enhanced the game in the State.

He welcomed his colleague from Edo State describing his presence as another sign of solidarity and collaboration between the two States in areas including sports, arts and culture and economic development.

In his remark, Governor Godwin Obaseki said the tournament is another evidence of the good work that Governor Lalong has put in over the years in building peace and stability in Plateau State thereby restoring it to its place as the Home of Peace and Tourism.

He said though the nation continues to face challenges with insecurity in some areas, such isolated developments should not make the citizens to panic and paint a picture that gives the criminals the boldness to assume that they are in charge or that there is no hope.

Obaseki said the efforts of Governor Simon Bako Lalong in the past six years are very productive because they have proven that any level of crises and instability can be neutralised through the cooperation of all citizens.

Captain ot the Lamingo Golf Club and Special Adviser to Governor Lalong on Legislature Hon. Joe Bukar said the Tournament has continued to showcase more talents and attract some of the best golfers in the country who are eager to savour the beauty, hospitality and serenity of the Jos Plateau which is second to none in Nigeria.

He said the golfers have already been competing in various categories leading to the grand finale tomorrow where prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
11th December 2021.

GOVERNOR LALONG HARPS ON JUSTICE AND FAIRNESS AS NIGERIAN LAW SCHOOL CLASS OF 1991 CELEBRATE 30 YEARS POST-CALL ANNIVERSARY

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has challenged Nigerian legal professionals to be at the forefront of promoting the principles of justice and fairness which are the bedrock for a peaceful and stable society, even as Nigeria continues to confront its challenges.

The Governor was speaking at a reunion dinner of the Nigerian Law School Class of 1991 held in Abuja to mark 30 years call to the Nigerian Bar.

Lalong said “Most of us have risen up to the occasion and given account of our call to the Bar where we went on to build careers in the Bench, the Bar as well as in politics, business and many other professions. Ours has been a journey of hope resilience, excellence and commitment to the cause of nation-building”.

He asked them to use the opportunity of the 30 years celebrations to assess their achievements and critically evaluate their contributions to the growth of the legal profession and the nation at large.

“As lawyers, the society looks up to us for justice, human rights, peace, tolerance and equity. We cannot afford to let the people down or our noble calling. This is why we must collectively work towards instilling discipline within the profession as well as demonstrating excellence in our various areas of service. Let us pay special attention to the integrity and prestige of our profession by ensuring that we work within the code of conduct of our calling. We cannot fold our arms and see some few persons dragging the dignity of our profession to the mud. We have the best opportunity as classmates to tell one another the truth and offer valuable counsel when we see anyone going out of line”.

The Governor said this is the time for the class of 1991 to use their positions to promote the unity, peace and prosperity of Nigeria. He said they must rise up and fight every form of injustice, bigotry, division and hatred which unfortunately appears to be on the rise in the country.

Lalong said since assuming office as Governor of Plateau State, he has been doing his best to break all barriers of hate, division, ethno-religious bigotry and crises merchandizing which had eaten deep within the State and exacerbated by politicians.

“Even though such tendencies are not peculiar to Plateau State alone, I had to dismantle them in order to restore Plateau State to its original status as the Home of Peace and Tourism. Today, there is substantial peace and stability in the State because we ensured that most people got justice and fairness. Inclusivity has reduced to the barest minimum the tensions that arose out of injustice and exclusion. Projects are spread across the State irrespective of tribal, ethnic, political and other considerations. I have also completed many abandoned projects inherited from the previous administration even though of a different political party” he said.

Class leader of Law Class of 1991 Jibrin Okutepa SAN, said the event was organised in continuation of activities to unite members of the class who are making impact in various capacities both on the Bench, Bar, Politics, Business, Academia and other fields.

He said the class has proven to be very resilient and productive which is by the grace of God and the determination of members to make use of the knowledge given to them at the law school over 30 years ago.

Chairman of the 91 Anniversary celebrations Prof. Paul Ananaba SAN, said the Class has shown great potentials and contributed a lot to the development of Nigeria. He admonished the members to continue to do more for the nation by putting their heads together to promote the legal profession and also look out for one another.

Governor Lalong led other members of the class to make contributions for the upliftment of one of the classmate who was involved in an accident and has lost his legs.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
10th December 2021.

“INCLUSIVITY IS BOOSTING INVESTMENT ON THE PLATEAU”, GOVERNOR LALONG TELLS BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has assured the business community in the State and the country that his administration will continue to pursue inclusivity, peace and security, as well as Infrastructural development which are key to guaranteeing investment in the State.

Governor Lalong said this when he hosted the 5th Governor’s dinner with the business community in Plateau State at the new Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.

He said among other things, Government wasted no time in looking at some of the areas of concern to the business community by pursuing policies and reforms in the areas of taxation, access to finance for MSMEs, business registration, Public Private Partnership, retraining of workers, and land administration and so on.

“So far we have witnessed substantial improvements to the delight of the private sector, while paying attention on the key enablers of Peace, Security, and Good Governance; Infrastructural Development; and Sustainable Economic Rebirth. This year’s dialogue therefore, presents the government and private sector another opportunity to compare notes, and exchange ideas on these and other matters of mutual interest” he said.

According to him, to further improve economic activities in the State, his administration prioritized diversification of the economy, with the stated goals of building a competitive manufacturing sector, expanding agricultural output, and capitalizing on technological and innovative advantages.

Some highlights of reforms and policies carried out  in line with the three pillar policy thrust to drive sustainable development, increase IGR and enhance the general business environment in the State include: Land reform, Tax Relief Measures, Establishment of the PPP Agency , Partnership with Agriculture Research Institution of Nigeria (ARCN) to boost farmers production capacity, Revitalized Judicial system, Expansion of physical infrastructure, Establishment of the Plateau State One Stop Investment Centre to facilitate investment and also provide ease of doing business in the State, Street naming and house numbering among others.

In his remarks, Mr. Akinrope Omoware.
Head of Component, Policywork Stream, GIZ-SEDIN commended the Governor for paying attention to the business community in the State and providing the needed climate for investment.

He urged the Government to do more and work towards addressing other challenges that still make it difficult for some businesses to improve and get stability.

Some members of the Plateau business community and heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies also made contributions at the dinner urging the government to consolidate on the substantial peace prevailing in the State.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the
Executive Governor of Plateau State.
10th December 2021.

NORTHERN GOVERNORS FELICITATE WITH GEN. T.Y. DANJUMA @84

The Northern Governors Forum has felicitated with elder statesman and Nigerian’s Former Minister of Defence, Gen. T.Y. Danjuma as he marks his 84th birthday.

In a message, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong congratulated Gen. Danjuma, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most patriotic individuals who made many sacrifices for the unity, peace and development of Nigeria.

Lalong said Gen. Theophilus Danjuma played his part during his military career to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria and also ensure that there are ample opportunities for Nigerians to live peacefully and pursue their legitimate endeavours in any part of the country.

The Governor said upon his retirement, General TY Danjuma ventured into several businesses which enabled him to again show his capacity to contribute to the economic development of the nation. This he said has impacted the lives of many citizens through creating employment opportunities and mentoring initiatives for the younger generation, leading to a multiplier effect.

Lalong also commended Gen. Danjuma for his contributions to building the Nigerian Armed Forces and stabilising the polity, having served as the Chief of Army staff and later, Minister of Defence as well as Chairman, Presidential Advisory Council at various times.

The Northern Governors while wishing him more years of good health and God’s protection, called on him to continue to offer his philanthropic services to the people as well as his wealth of experience and assistance towards the peace, progress and prosperity of the Northern Region and Nigeria as a whole.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum
9th December, 2021.

GAGDI ATTENDS REV. DEWAN’S BOOKS LAUNCH, DONATES #1MILLION

In the usual busy schedules that characterised his week long engagements, the member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, was weekend, at the book launch of two books; Roadmap to Peace, Security and Unity, as well as Secret of a Successful Life, authored by Rev. Dewan Ezekiel, where he launched each of the books with five hundred thousand naira.

The book launch, which took place at the Government House Chapel, Little Rayfield, Jos had in attendance personalities from all walks of life, who took turns to make glowing remarks about the author and the timely publication of the rich books, whose contents have far reaching impact on the peace efforts of the rescue administration in Plateau state.

Gagdi appreciates the author for taking time out of his busy schedules of shepherding the flock, to pen down his thoughts with emphatical precision on how to lead a fulfilling life; especially in this end time, when people have negate the very essence of human existence in pursuit of vain glory.

Meanwhile, the lawmaker was at the residence of Bishop Benjamin Kwashi, where he took time to interact with the over 70 orphans in the Bishop’s orphanage. He encouraged the cleric to keep up the good work of caring for the orphans, as such was the crescendo of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Gagdi attended weddings within the state headquarters and his Constituency throughout the weekend.

He charged couples at each of the wedding receptions he attended, to make love the pillar of their homes make tolerance the sine-qua-non of their marital relationships; positing that marriage is not a bed of roses, but little acts of tolerance and understanding adds bliss to the home.

Signed:
GAGDI MEDIA TEAM

GOVERNOR LALONG CONGRATULATES HIS CHIEF OF STAFF, NOEL DONJUR @ 58

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has sent warm felicitations to his Chief of Staff, Noel Donjur as he marks his 58th birthday, describing him as a worthy ally and strong support for the Rescue Administration.

The Governor in a congratulatory message described the Chief of Staff as someone he has known for a long time with consistent attributes of loyalty, honesty, resilience, intellect and patriotism. These attributes according to him have manifested over the years in all the assignments he has carried out within and outside Government.

Lalong said Mr. Donjur continues to add value to the Government of Plateau State by deploying his wealth of experience gathered in the public and private sectors, as well as putting forth his professional knowledge that has assisted the Government to deliver on its mandate to the people.

The Governor said the commitment, honesty and dedication to duty of the Chief of Staff has not only motivated other government officials to put in their best in the service of the State, but also added efficiency of Government in dealing with many challenges that are confronting the State.

While praying God to grant Mr. Donjur more years of good health, God’s protection and wisdom, the Governor urged him to sustain his meticulous, vigilant and honest service to the State particularly in ensuring that the programmes and projects of the Rescue Administration are carried out seamlessly.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
6th December 2021.

The birth of ‘DVD Movement’ in Plateau State took everyone by surprise. A philosophy conceptualized by people of like minds few years before the retirement of the principal behind the movement, was an idea which time has come. Shortly before his retirement after years of service to the nation, friends and admirers who are witnesses to his tremendous contributions to the socio-economic development of the country began to harvest ideas on how such meritorious service could be extended to his home State, Plateau after retirement. And giving a shot at the governorship slot became a ready opportunity and option to actualize this ambition.
Consequently, the emergence of this movement heralded the collective thinking that represent the voices of advocates who for long have been yearning for a people-centered governance leadership in Plateau State. A movement that is today seen as a pressure group set out to convince the man behind the scenes to aspire for the topmost leadership position in the State.
The David Victor Dimka (DVD) Movement has today become a slogan and sing son that drives the aspiration and thinking of a personality called David Victor Dimka. The retired Comptroller of Customs who after a meritorious service in the Nigeria Customs Services decided to respond to this clarion call by seeking the mandate of Plateau people both at home and in the diaspora to extend the same selfless service which had placed him in an enviable position while in service.
Therefore, his journey into the political landscape is a conscious step informed by his unequalled pedigree which has endeared him to so many people both within and outside Plateau State. His footprints in the Nigeria Customs Service as an excellent administrator and a dogged fighter against human rights violations speak volume. This is in addition to his humane attitude which earned him so much admiration and respect from people who cut across different strata of the Nigerian society.
His contribution to the national economy while in service has remained a case study for officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service. Indeed, he left an indelible mark which till date, has become a reference point for the command and structure of the service as a self-made personality within the service with high level of due diligence and administrative capacity.
These attributes were the secret behind the robust relationship he was able to establish with the low and mighty drawn from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds in Nigeria. Through their goodwill, his foray into the Nigerian political landscape came with much ease, placing him above the mire. His support to humanity and building blogs of relationships across the country have remained legendary to them.
A critical analysis has revealed that the emergence of DVD Movement on the Plateau has broken barriers of ethnicity and religion, and has continued to build bridges of commonalities and collective interest among the people of Plateau State and the nation at large.
Today, the wind is fast blowing and sweeping across the nooks and crannies of the State with a high intensity of buying-in of elders, men and women, youth, tribal and religious groups, professional, development and market associations. The expression of support by these groups and individuals have continued to soar and remain uncommon to the admiration of so many well wishers in and outside the State.
Unravelling the secret behind this enviable status, one is quick to attribute it to the standards set by his late father who himself was a politician of high repute and a religious believer. The late D.D Dimka (of blessed memory) even though rose to the highest pinnacle of the Nigerian politics, he also contributed immensely to the growth of the Church in Plateau State having served the Church of Christ in Nigeria (now Church of Christ in Nations) in various capacities before he passed on.
Such virtues helped built the character and mindset of the leader of the DVD Movement (David Victor Dimka) who today remains a household name in community development and service to humanity. Principles of equity, fairness, justice, and service to humanity have remained his guiding principles in dealing with people and he does that with utmost precision and diligence such that one often wonders how his inner mind works in such a quick succession.
As we move towards 2023, it is our collective prayers and hope that the people of Plateau State will see in David Victor Dimka (DVD) the dynamism that is required of a leader, the zeal and willingness to serve, and a man ready to restore its past glory and move Plateau State beyond the present status of an enviable State.

Alhaji Zakari Sabo of Chevron Oil Warri a distinguished expert in the oil industry who hails from Kanam Local Government Area came to the DVD Movement office Jos in the company of Alhaji Dauda Gar the DVD coordinator in Kanam LGA. His commitment to the DVD Movement was expressed by the Campaign Materials – T-Shirts that he brought along; even though he said they are just a token and a harbinger of more support from him throughout the campaign.
” I came to express my commitment to the DVD Movement because I have confidence in the capacity of Nde Dimka Victor David whose reputation as courageous and gallant officer while in the Nigeria Customs Service is well established. I have a desire to come back home and contribute my quota towards the development of Plateau State and the DVD Movement offers the best template for a secured investment friendly business environment. Together we shall lift up the standard of living of our people.”
On hand to receive him was Hon Meshach Chindaba who on behalf of the Principal and the DVD Team thanked the supporter profusely. “Your enthusiastic support for the DVD Movement will be remembered and your commitment will not be in vain. Your desire to return home to add value to the DVD Movement and work for the success of Nde Dimka Victor David is commendable. We thank you for the campaign materials and assure you that we will use them judiciously. May God replenish you a hundredfold.” he asserted.

The ever widening gyre of the DVD Movement has become unstoppable. Today who else but the Ice Prince, Panshak Henry Zamani came to Nde Dimka Victor David fsi the Captain of the DVD Movement to renew family ties and let the world know that he is part and parcel of the Movement that will take him to Little Rayfield.
“We lost our junior brother Master Timothy Ritji Dimka but I was out of town so I had to come home to share in the grief. Now that the mourning period is over I must also key into the DVD Movement and bring my all to ensure victory come 2023. I am fully in the Campaign and you will be seeing me lighting the trail. My uncle was an officer’s officer while in the Nigeria Customs Service and I know that with him at the helm of affairs Plateau State will once again be the Home of Peace and Tourism. I see prosperity in the horizon. See you guys at Government House in May 2023 when we shall light up Jos celebrating DVD as the next Governor of Plateau State.”
Responding Nde Dimka Victor David fsi welcomed the Ice Prince back home and thanked him for his messages during the bereavement. He assured him that the DVD Movement has gained traction and that his will be the needed boost that will electrify the political arena given his large followership which was a source of pride to the family.
“You are an asset from Plateau State who has garnered national and international fame. We shall ensure that security becomes our foremost priority so that investors, tourists and those who trace their roots to the Plateau will return. We will pursue an inclusive governance so that everyone will have a sense of belonging and contribute to the development of the State. You are a national icon hence our joy that you have come to key into our vision and mission. We will bring the age old values of hardwork, forthrightness fairness and integrity that our people hold very dear in all our decisions if God by his grace grants us favour.”
Nde Dimka Victor David fsi in conclusion wished the award winning actor and hip hop rapper who is popular for his “Oleku” and “Aboki” tracks a successful outing in Jos.

DVD Media Team

GAGDI COMMISIRATES WITH THE PEOPLE OF PANKSHIN SOUTH OVER MEMBER’S DEMISE

I received with the rudest shock, the news of the passing unto eternal glory of Hon. (Barr) Henry Longs, the member representing Pankshin South State Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, after a brief illness on Sunday 28th November, 2021.

Late Barr Henry Longs was a legal luminary of inestimable prowess and a dogged representative of the good people of Pankshin South, who was an active voice of the downtrodden in the 9th State Assembly.

The lawmaker would be greatly missed for his legislative activism and doggedness in the defence of human rights, that had earned accolades and admiration among his constituents and Plateau people alike.

I pray God to repose his soul and grant his family and constituents the fortitude to bear this irreparable lost.

Signed:
Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi,
(Dan Malikin Kanam),
Member representing PKK and Chairman House Committee on Navy.