NORTHERN GOVERNORS FORUM CELEBRATE MAI MALA BUNI @ 54
The Northern Governors Forum has felicitated with Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni on his 54th birthday.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong in a congratulatory message described Governor Mai Mala as a gentleman and visionary leader who is a silent achiever.
Lalong said the Governor who exudes has humility at all times, has continued to work for his people and develop the State despite the security challenges he inherited on assuming office.
He said Governor Mai Mala apart from doing his best to improve the living standard of his people, has also done well since his appointment as the Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee by strengthening the party and bringing in more members while taking it closer to the people.
Lalong said Governor Mai Mala has made tremendous contributions within the Northern Governors Forum in the search for solutions to various challenges of the region and the nation at large.
He also commended his tenacity in the efforts to unite the nation particularly in the face of dounting challenges.
While wishing him more years of good health, peace and God’s protection, Lalong prayed God to continue to give the Governor the wisdom and strength to serve his people and Nigerians at large.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum. 19th November 2021.
PLATEAU STATE TO HOST ANGLICAN PROVINCIAL STANDING COMMITTEE
Plateau State has been given the hosting rights to host the Anglican Church Provincial Standing Committee scheduled to hold in 2022.
Anglican Archbishop of Jos, Most. Rev. Dr. Benjamin Kwashi announced this during a courtesy visit to Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House, Rayfield Jos.
He said the the delegation was at the Government House to brief the Governor on the hosting rights for the event scheduled for September 2022 and also solicit the support of the Government towards hosting the event which will draw participants from within amd outside the country.
Archbishop Kwashi also emphasized the need for the Plateau State Government to build on the legacies of Christian missionaries who brought the gospel and founded schools, hospitals and other social welfare and empowerment programmes.
He also appealed to the Government to consider imortalizing famous sons of Plateau State who served the State and Nigeria with zeal. This he said was necessary for the younger generation to know the great strides of the personalities and also learn from them.
Some of those he recommended for honour include: Late Archbishop G.G. Ganaka, Dr. M.D. Gotom, Col. Yakubu Pam, Maj. Gen. I.D. Bisalla, John Amos Kwashi.
In his remarks, Governor Simon Lalong said he was grateful for the visit by the Anglican Archbishop and his team who have come to show solidarity with the government having continually prayed for the peace, progress and development of Plateau State.
He said the State was happy to be granted the opportunity to host the Anglican Church Provincial Standing Committee, a task he assured the State will support to bring to fulfilment.
He commended the Church for not only praying for the peace and prosperity of the State, but also offering valuable counsel to the Government.
Lalong also congratulated the Archbishop for the miracle of healing having been declared cancer-free after undergoing treatment for close to a year.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 17th November 2021.
GOVERNOR LALONG SWEARS IN 14 SPECIAL ADVISERS; CHARGES ON IMPLEMENTING THE RESCUE AGENDA.
15 new Special Advisers have been sworn in by Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong with a charge on them to add impetus to governance and the delivery of quality services to the people.
Lalong while swearing in the advisers, said they played various roles at different times in not only ensuring that the Rescue Administration came into office, but also making sure it succeeds in building a peaceful and all-inclusive Plateau.
He said “This is why you must consider these appointments as a great privilege for you to serve the people of Plateau State by advancing the programmes and policies of the Rescue Administration. You must bring to the table fresh ideas and vigour that will advance the cause of the people who gave us their mandate to execute. As Special Advisers, Government will be looking up to you for quality, honest and unbiased counsel at all times. You should be able to operate above personal and parochial interests because you have been called upon to serve the public and not yourselves or associates”.
He admonished them to at all times endeavour to work in synergy with other appointees and civil servants within the MDAs in executing various programmes and projects of government. He said they should see their appointment not a licence for competition, show-of-power, or influence-peddling, but for service.
Lalong said already, there is an increase in the tempo of political activities within the State and elsewhere. This has given rise to voices that are desperately working to castigate government and downplay its excellent records of performance.
“You have to speak up at every given opportunity to project the true narratives of how our administration broke the jinx of governance by inheriting and completing many projects abandoned by the past government which was of a different political party. You should also showcase the many programs and projects initiated and executed by this government which have touched lives positively”.
He used the opportunity to appeal to all political actors in the State and outside to exercise restraint and show decorum in their utterances. Rather than overheat the polity and engage in damaging propaganda, they should sell their aspirations and ambitions to the people in a civilized and respectful manner as the people know those who love them and those who have worked hard to give them peace and progress.
On the impasse at the Plateau House of Assembly, the Governor said “I call on the good people of Plateau State to disregard all the misinformation and campaign of calumny targeted at the government and my person, over the recent events in the State House of Assembly. For us, this is the beauty of democracy and the dividends of Autonomy which everyone knows that I fought for over many years, and also became the first Governor in Nigeria to implement.
He said because the legislature is an independent and autonomous arm of government, they must be allowed to resolve their challenges and grow as an institution. After all, the third arm of government, the Judiciary is there for anyone who feels aggrieved over happenings in the House to approach it for remedy. There is therefore no need for media propaganda, insults, threats and blackmail which unfortunately has been championed by some interested parties to gain political relevance.
The Governor also inaugurated four honorary Special Advisers, two Deputy Chiefs of Staff as well as the Board of the Plateau Solid Minerals Development Company Ltd.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Hon. Diket Plang, Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs said they will do their best to serve the State and ensure the success of the APC Rescue Administration which has done a lot to change the trajectory of development and peace in the State.
List of appointees and their portfolios:
Hon. Diket Plang – Public Affairs
Arch. Pam Dung Gyang – Political Affairs 3.Justice Philomina Lot (Rtd) – Judicial Affairs 4.Chief Burki Gofwan – Physically Challenged Affairs 5.Barr. Jonathan Mawiyau – Legal Affairs 6.Mrs. Felicia Yakzum – Women Affairs 7.Hon. Joe Bukar – Legislative Affairs 8.Hon. Danladi Mann – Sports Affairs 9.Hon. Talatu Apini – Humanitarian Affairs 10. Barr. Bashir Musa Sati – Inter-Party Affairs 11. Barr. Kwamkur Samuel Vondip – Job Creation and Entrepreneurship 12. Rev. Dr. David Laje – Religious Affairs ( Christian) 13. Hon. Sani Mudi – Religious Affairs ( Muslim) 14. Maj. Gen. Paul Guar (Rtd) – Inter- Community Relations
Engr. Ishaku Awatai – Minerals Development
Honorary Special Advisers are:
Nde Ezekiel Gomos – Economic Affairs/ Chairman of State Economic Advisory Team
Prof. Ochapa Onazi – Agriculture
Chief Michael Maqual – Youth Affairs
Maj. Gen. A.C. Agundu (Rtd) – Intelligence
Deputy Chiefs of Staff in the Governor’s Office are:
Salihu Kwando – Deputy Chief of Staff (General Admin)
Ibrahim Saleh Maitala – Deputy Chief of Staff (Political Affairs)
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 17th November 2021.
NDLEA CHAIRMAN VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG, DECRIES RAVAGING EFFECTS OF DRUGS
The Chairman/CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Gen. Buba Marwa, rtd. has visited Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House Rayfield Jos where he lamented the ravaging effects of drug abuse on the society particularly violent crimes.
Marwa who was on a courtesy visit to the Governor as part of his working visit to Plateau State said the menace of drug abuse is a nationwide problem which has fuelled violent crimes and insecurity in many parts of Nigeria including Plateau State.
He said the NDLEA has worked out strategies for not only stopping the acquisition and distribution of narcotic substances, but also engaged in massive education and enlightenment to get the entire society on board to fight the menace which is touching every segment of the society.
Marwa said it was for this reason that the agency has not only stopped at seizure, arrest and prosecution of drug traffickers, but also recommended compulsory tests for public office holders, intending couples and others in order to facilitate the rehabilitation and management of those who are already using drugs.
He commended Governor Simon Lalong for his efforts in assisting the NDLEA Training Academy Jos and Plateau State Command with logistics, infrastructure and collaboration in discharge of their duties. He appealed for an allocation of land to enable the agency build its barracks which was approved by President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2022 budget.
Responding, Governor Lalong said he was excited to recieve Gen. Marwa whose pedigree for performance is widely known during his glorious military career.
He said the NDLEA has done a lot in Nigeria and in particular Plateau State by arresting drug kingpins who at one time thought they were untouchable. This he said reduced the rate of violent crimes in the State.
Lalong however appealed to the NDLEA Chairman to intensify efforts in helping the State avoid being used as a transit State for narcotics as well as handle the rehabilitation of those already affected.
He pledged to complete the construction of the rehabilitation centre currently under construction as well as continue to offer more support to the agency when needed.
Gen. Marwa is in Plateau State for the passing out of newly trained officers among other activities.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 17th November 2021.
NORTHERN GOVERNORS CONDOLE DANGOTE OVER LOSS OF BROTHER, SANI.
The Northern Governors Forum has condoled businessman, Aliko Dangote over the loss of his younger brother, Sani Dangote who untill his death was the Vice President of the Dangote Group.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong in a message of commiseration described the death of Sani Dangote as a devastating blow to the family and to the Dangote Group in particular.
Governor Lalong said the late Sani was a great asset to the Dangote business conglomerate and did a lot to see to its growth in various sectors of the Nigerian and global economy.
“As a silent achiever, the late Sani was known for his business acumen, attention to details and focus for success in the various positions he occupied in the business world. He built a personality profile of integrity, diligence and service throughout his career. He will be surely missed” he said.
Lalong said the late Sani represented the bright business minds of the Northern Region and contributed a lot to raising younger entrepreneurs who have gone on to become successful businessmen and women in the region and nation at large.
While urging his family and the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote to accept the development as the will of God, Lalong said the legacies of late Sani will continue to endure as he played his role in improving the economic fortunes of the Northern Region and Nigeria as a whole.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State and Chairman Northern Governor’s Forum. 16th November 2021.
BIRTHDAY FELICITATIONS TO PLATEAU FIRST LADY, MRS REGINA LALONG
On the auspicious occasion of the birthday anniversary celebration of Plateau First Lady and my Mother, Mrs Regina Bako Lalong, I join millions of well wishers of the first family to celebrate the iconic Amazon.
You have been the pillar that provided the needed support for your husband to lead Plateau State to enviable heights. The success story of the current Rescue administration can never be complete without your support from the home front.
As you make merry in commemoration of the day, I wish you a joyous celebration and more prosperous years ahead.
Once again, happy birthday!
Signed: Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, (Dan Malikin Kanam), Member representing PKK and Chairman House Committee on Navy.
In addition to earlier appointments of Special Advisers approved by Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, more appointments have been announced of other Special Advisers and other political appointees.
The following is the full list of Special Advisers approved by the Governor:
1.Hon. Diket Plang 2. Arch. Pam Dung Gyang 3.Justice Philomina Lot (Rtd) 4.Chief Burki Gofwan 5.Barr. Jonathan Mawiyau 6.Mrs. Felicia Yakzum 7.Hon. Joe Bukar 8.Hon. Danladi Mann 9.Hon. Talatu Apini 10. Barr. Bashir Musa Sati 11. Barr. Kwamkur Samuel Vondip 12. Rev. Dr. David Laje 13. Hon. Sani Mudi 14. Maj. Gen. Paul Goar (Rtd)
Honorary Special Advisers are:
Nde Ezekiel Gomos
Prof. Ochapa Onazi
Chief Michael Maqual
Maj. Gen. A.C. Agundu (Rtd)
The Governor also approved the appointment of two Deputy Chiefs of Staff in the Governor’s Office. They are:
Salihu Kwando – Deputy Chief of Staff (General Admin)
Ibrahim Saleh Maitala – Deputy Chief of Staff (Political Affairs)
The Governor also approved the appointment of Managin Director and Board of the Plateau Minerals Development Company Ltd. (PMDC). The new Managing Director Mr. Kwaplong Mathew Bialwan.
The Board is constituted of the following:
H. E. Executive Governor of Plateau State – Chairman
Hon. Commissioner for Minerals Development – Member
Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs – Member
MD PIPC – Member
The Special Advisers will be sworn in on Wednesday, 17th November 2021 at the New Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 15th November 2021.
NDE DAVID VICTOR DIMKA fsi FELICITATES WITH THE FIRST LADY,MRS REGINA LALONG ON HER BIRTHDAY
The leader of the DVD Movement in Plateau State, Nde David Victor Dimka fsi on behalf of his family and all members of the DVD Movement felicitate with Plateau State first lady on the occasion of her birthday.
Nde David Victor Dimka fsi in a joyous message described the attainment of the age by the mother of Plateau State as a momentous occasion that calls for celebration and thanksgiving to God.
Reviewing the impactful life of the first Lady, Nde David Victor Dimka fsi said, “I commend the First Lady for being a woman of substance whom God is using mightily. We applaud her for reaching out and focusing on the welfare and wellbeing of women, children and the vulnerable.
“Using her non- governmental organization, SWITCH Foundation, she has trained and empowered thousands of women and youths, especially the girl child. We thank her for her contributions in other critical areas of national development.”
“As you celebrate this day, we pray fervently that God will continue to enrich you and your family with greater wisdom and may he grant you many more fruitful years ahead.”
“We wish you many more years of peace, good health and God’s protection.” he concluded.
PLATEAU STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL REJOICES WITH FIRST LADY REGINA LALONG ON HER BIRTHDAY.
The Plateau State Executive Council has expressed warm felicitations to the First Lady of Plateau State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Regina Simon Bako Lalong on the occasion of her birthday.
The Council rejoices with the Mother of the State for marking another year, describing the occasion as an auspicious one that calls for Thanksgiving to God for his faithfulness in her life and her family.
It particularly expressed delight that the First Lady has over the years devoted her life to the service of humanity by focussing on the welfare and wellbeing of women, children and the vulnerable.
Using her non-governmental organisation, SWITCH Foundation, the First Lady has trained and empowered thousands of women and youths, including the girl child. This has reduced poverty, provided social education and emancipated them from some negative societal practices that impinge on their rights.
Her Excellency has also offered assistance to many indigent girls by sponsoring their education and also ensuring that they choose career paths that will give them a brighter future and make them good citizens of Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.
The First Lady’s passion for fight against drug and substance abuse among youths has similarly received tremendous accolades as she has done so much to support relevant government agencies through her foundation to discourage access, abuse and distribution of drugs in Plateau State, Northern Nigeria and the entire country. She has also made afforts at ensuring the rehabilitation of those under the influence of harmful substances.
Apart from her role as the Public Relations Officer of the Northern Governors Wives Forum, the Plateau State Government is also appreciative of Her Excellency’s support to the Executive Governor who has been holding forth at the family front and giving moral and spiritual backing to her husband to continue with the Rescue Mission and taking Plateau State to greater heights.
The Exco wishes her a joyous celebration and prays that God will give her many more years of good health, peace and divine protection.
Dan Manjang Commissioner for Information and Communication, Plateau State. 15th November 2021
Plateau group declare Gabriel Suswan enemy of Plateau State. “Focus on your recall ” group advises.
Plateau United for Protection of Democary (PUFPOD) has declared Senator Gabriel Suswan as the enemy of Plateau State who is bent on formenting unrest in the state to score cheap political points for his sponsors.
The group in a statement signed by it’s President, Comrade Istifanus Abok described Sen Suswan, as “a serial betrayer who has abandoned his constituency to wage a war against the Government and good people of Plateau State.”
The group said ” the people of Plateau State find the statement of Sen Suswan on the floor of the National Assembly where he called on his colleagues to remove the elected Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon Yakubu Sanda, as absurd, insensitive and bizarre, with intent to instigate hatred and crisis in the state. “
The group wondered why a former Governor and Senator of neighbouring Benue State will postulate on Plateau affairs, without consulting with Senator Hezekiah Dimka and Senator Nora Dadu’ut who are his colleagues, to get a balanced position of developments in their State. ” is he the Governor-General of Benue and Plateau states?” the statement querried.
According to the group ” we are surprised that Sen Suswan who kept mute amid insecurity in his constituency, resulting in the gruesome murder of his brother and the attempted murder of Alfred Atera, Council Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, has suddenly regained his voice to castigate Gov Simon Lalong over actions of an independent arm of Government”
Speaking further, the group urged Sen Suswan to focus his attention more on the recall process being championed by his constituency for lack of performance and adequate representation. It will be recalled that Sankera United for Democracy and Development (SUDD) has threatened to initiate the recall of Senator Gabriel Suswam of Benue State for allegedly neglecting the Sankera people of Benue North-East, which he represents, comprising of Ukum, Logo and Katsina-Ala councils.
The group led by Edward told reporters in Abuja that consultation had been concluded to begin the process of recalling Suswam from the senate.
“Our people cannot breathe anymore. The most disturbing aspect of this is the incontrovertible fact that our son, Senator Gabriel Suswam, has become a fugitive senator.
“To his satisfaction, he has maintained a vivacious silence. His absence in his immediate constituency of Sankera to address the people is disturbing. Suswam has committed many sins against the people of Sankera,” he said.
The group advised Sen Suswan to go back to Katsina-Ala and apologise to his suffering constituents and stop embarrassing the good people of Benue State who share common heritage with their Plateau neighbours.
Freelance Reporters 