By Prince Sekat,Jos

Plateau state Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Saturday flagged off the airlift of Christian pilgrims to the holy land from the Jos airport at Heipang .

Speaking at the occasion ,Governor Lalong said ” We are making history here today at the Yakubu Gowon Airport Heipang, as we officially bid farewell to intending pilgrims to the Holy Land for the Christian Pilgrimage.

He said “This is the first time we are flagging off the departure of intending pilgrims to the Holy Land from Plateau State.

The Governor said “I want to convey our immense gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, for approving that the flag-off for the pilgrimage nationwide be held in Plateau State.

He said that the significance of the flag-off exercise to the State is inestimable because of many factors.

In his words “First, it reaffirms the fact that Plateau State is back to its pride of place as the Home of Peace and Tourism. Secondly, it shows that the efforts of our Rescue Administration in restoring peace, confidence and stability are yielding the desired results.

Lalong added that Besides, the initial plan for direct airlift of pilgrims from Jos was to save our intending pilgrims the rigours of traveling by road to Abuja and other designated take-off points.

“Even as this plan could not be actualised, we are optimistic that this development takes the Yakubu Gowon Airport closer to international service considering that the Federal Government has designated it as one of the Cargo Airports in the country. Hopefully, all the outstanding issues should be sorted out before the next exercise to make the dream of direct flight come true.

“I also wish to specially thank the Honourable Minister for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, the Management and staff of the Federal Airports Authority and all other agencies in the aviation industry for working to facilitate the success of this epoch-making event.

He added that Similarly, I will like to thank the Chairman and members of the Presidential Steering Committee on Covid-19 headed by our brother and friend Barrister Boss Mustapha for assiduously working to contain the pandemic in the country thereby paving the way for the pilgrimage exercise to hold.

” I am told that a total of 600 intending pilgrims will be performing the pilgrimage during this exercise. Out of this number, 200 were carried over from those that were not airlifted to the Holy Land to participate in the 2019 pilgrimage as a result of the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic.”

Lalong who congratulated the intending pilgrims , further said that I congratulate you all on your successful screening which has confirmed your suitability and preparedness to fully participate in this all-important spiritual exercise.

“You should therefore see this as an opportunity to develop yourselves spiritually and draw closer to God.”

” Pilgrimage is not a jamboree or an exercise for frivolity. It is a deeply spiritual exercise that connects people to the Christian faith by offering them an opportunity to see, feel and touch some of the accounts rendered in the Holy Bible. It also enables them appreciate the spirit and letter of the Word of God from historical perspective to present age.” Unlike previous Pilgrimage exercises which were mainly carried out to the State of Israel only, this year's exercise will be to the Kingdom of Jordan on account of COVID-19 restrictions, safety concerns and the desire to widen the scope of pilgrimage to other Biblical sides around the world.

“However, we have been assured by the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission that Government carefully chose Jordan in view of the presence of several historic religious sites and phenomena that will inarguably and equally enrich pilgrims’ spiritual experiences.

” You should therefore count yourselves favoured to have this fresh experience that brings another perspective to Pilgrimage and the Bible.

I hope that you will come back with fond memories and experiences that widen your horizon to the truth of the word of God and universality of His love.

“You are embarking on this exercise at a time when the world is passionately fighting the Corona Virus Pandemic which disrupted the exercise in 2019 and 2020. Government has done a lot to enhance the safety of intending pilgrims through comprehensive vaccination and sensitization.”

” While you are on this pilgrimage, you should be mindful that your conduct will either open more doors for others to also visit the Holy Land or close it. In this era of COVID-19, you must adhere strictly to the guidelines outlined by the NCPC and the host country. The COVID-19 pandemic is still prevalent and every caution must be taken to safeguard lives.

The Governor further added that We have also put in place stringent measures to check unwholesome conduct such as abscondment by some pilgrims who use the exercise as a cover for irregular migration.” Let me warn that any pilgrim that is caught trying to abscond will be made to face the full wrath of the law. We shall not take it lightly with those who attempt to bring the name of our State and country to disrepute.

” On sponsorship, I wish to commend those on self-sponsorship for devoting their resources for this all-important spiritual exercise. In fact, because of the current economic situation, the Government cannot always bear the huge burden of sponsoring pilgrims to the Holy Land. “

That is why we encourage intending pilgrims to save for this spiritual experience and for people who are privileged to sponsor others. Already, the National Christian Pilgrims Commission has created avenues and products that make it easy for self-sponsorship and other forms of assistance to intending pilgrims.

He also said that “Dear intending pilgrims, you are embarking on this spiritual exercise at a time when our nation is in dire need for prayers and rejuvenation because of the myriad of security and economic challenges we face. It is very important that you present our nation before God and solemnly reflect on your role as believers in building a better Nigeria. Indeed, when we turn to God with a sincere heart, our land will be healed. Please pray earnestly for Plateau and Nigeria while you are there.

He commended the Executive Secretary, Plateau State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Very Rev. Fr. George Goshi Gorap and members of his Management Team as well as members of the Committee on the Maiden Flag-Off of Airlift of intending pilgrims to the Holy Land for putting all necessary things in place for a hitch -free exercise.

“Let me on behalf of the Government and good people of Plateau, specially appreciate the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Reverend Yakubu Pam for considering Plateau State for this honour of hosting the maiden airlift to the Holy land and also enabling us prove our capacity.

“You have demonstrated that indeed you are an illustrious son of Plateau whose appointment by Mr. President was the right choice. I call on other sons and daughters of Plateau to continue to Think Plateau and Act Plateau by showcasing the potentials of our State and assuring the world that we are open to business.”

The Governor also said that as Governor, he would always support him to ensure that he succeeds in the service to the nation.

CATHOLIC WOMEN ORGANISATION OF NIGERIA VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG

The Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria (CWON) has commended Governor Simon Bako Lalong for his inclusive leadership style that has promoted peace and greater harmony in the State and nation at large.

CWON Secretary Board of Trustees, Lady Rose Agur stated this when she led the Executive Committee of the body to the Government House Rayfield Jos to pay a courtesy visit to the Governor and present to him the new President of CWON Dame Mary Assipi Gonsun.

She appreciated the Governor for his disposition to reach out to people across religious, denominational and social groups. She appreciated the donation of a bus to the CWON and other forms of support that have facilitated the work of evangelism.

She also told the Governor that the National Executive Committee was in Jos for its Retreat and Executive Meeting.

Responding, Governor Lalong said he was delighted with the honour of the visit by the Catholic Women Organisation which is the umbrella body of women in the Catholic Church.

He urged them to pray for Nigeria and the leadership as well as followership for God to grant them wisdom and ability to resolve the challenges of the nation.

The Governor said the already, the intercession of women particularly the CWON was very useful in encouraging Government serve the people with honesty, vigour and commitment.

Lalong also asked them to pray for the rescue of people in captivity and for the defeat of evil persons that have terrorized the country.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
23rd July 2021.

GOVERNOR LALONG APPALLED BY WILLFUL DESTRUCTION OF FARM CROPS; ORDERS ARREST OF PERPETRATORS

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has described as callous, criminal, inhuman and wicked, the reported willful destruction of farm crops in some communities in the State by yet to be apprehended criminals.

Governor Lalong while reacting to the ugly development said it is unimaginable that people will go into a farm and mow down flourishing crops that are nearing maturity and expected to be harvested in the coming weeks and months for whatever reason.

This according to him is a premeditated act that must be addressed.
Lalong said “the recent case of such intentional decimation of farm crops in Kpachudu, Jebbu Miango in Bassa Local Government area is totally condemnable and unacceptable. From the reports, this is a carefully planned and executed act that is not only meant to provoke crisis, suspicion and instability in the area, but also render the victims poor and hungry. What these criminals fail to understand is that such actions will eventually leave the entire State and the country with food shortages where even the perpetrators will not escape”.

The Governor therefore directs the security agencies to immediately swing into action by conducting a thorough investigation into this terrorist activity with a view to arresting those behind it and prosecuting them. The Government working with the security agencies will do everything within its power to unravel those behind this barbaric act and deal with them accordingly.

Without prejudice to the directive to security agencies to investigate the matter and apprehend culprits, the Governor has also mandated the Plateau Peace Building Agency to visit the affected areas and ascertain the level of damage, as well as foster dialogue within the communities with a view to ensuring that such incidents are avoided.

The Governor also wants community associations, traditional rulers, youth groups and vigilante platforms all over the State to be proactive by providing the security agencies with the intelligence to pre-empt and foil such plans as well as arresting the perpetrators who clearly are on a mission to return Plateau to the era of pain and agony.

The Governor sympathizes with the affected farmers and promises that the Government will do its best to ensure that they get justice.

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

GOVERNOR LALONG ATTENDS APC STAKEHOLDERS MEETING AHEAD OF WARD CONGRESSES

Ahead of the ward congresses of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has called on members of the party in the State to come together and ensure a peaceful and smooth conduct that will further strengthen the party.

Governor Lalong while addressing the stakeholders in Jos, said the ward congress elections are meant to give the party a stronger foundation for the consolidation of its successes in the State and across the country.

He called on members to be transparent and conduct themselves in a manner that will build harmony, peace and equity among members and also make the party maintain its position as the largest party in the country.

The Governor advised the members to abide by the guidelines for the conduct of the primaries and also ensure that all avenues for consensus are exhausted for the emergence of ward officials. Where such is not reached, elections should be conducted in a peaceful atmosphere and without any rancour.

Lalong urged those saddled with the task of conducting the elections to ensure that only registered members are allowed to participate in the process.

Acting Caretaker Chairman of the APC in Plateau State said the stakeholders meeting is meant to prepare the members for the task ahead which is very crucial. According to him, the party is working to ensure that all arrangements are done on time to provide for a smooth exercise.

He said lessons have been learnt from the recently conducted Local Government primaries as aggrieved persons are being heared by the reconciliation committee.

Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Idris Wase appealed to the stakeholders and party officials to be fair to all the members of the party who are aspiring for offices during the ward congresses.

Also contributing, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly Saleh Shehu Yipmong expressed optimism that the party will come out of the process stronger because of the leadership of the Governor who has been fair to all and always willing to lead by example.

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

GOVERNOR LALONG FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS AT EID EL-KABIR

As muslims in Plateau State join other faithfuls across the world to mark Eid-el-Kabir, Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed warm felicitations and admonished them to embrace the lessons of the exercise and work for a better society.

Governor Lalong particularly described the growing spirit of tolerance and religious harmony in Plateau State as a welcome development which he said was enhancing confidence and improving the economy.

He said the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir presents another opportunity for the Muslim community to reach out to indigent members of society and people of other faiths by extending the blessings of the moment.

On security, the Governor expressed happiness that religiously-motivated insecurity has been largely tackled in Plateau State, saying attention now is on criminality that borders on vices such as banditry, kidnapping, destruction of crops and livestock as well as attacks on innocent citizens.

This he said the Government is fighting with all its might to overcome as it has recently procured 200 security motorcycles and 50 patrol vans to boost the capacity of security agencies to deal with crimes in all parts of the State.

The Governor also commended security agencies for working round the clock to secure the State before, during and after the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.

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

GOVERNOR LALONG SHOWERS MILLIONS ON PLATEAU CONTINGENT TO EDO 2020; DIRECTS HOSTING OF PLATEAU SPORTS FESTIVAL

It was a night of jubilation at the Banquet Hall of the New Government House, Little Rayfield as Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong hosted the State Contingent to the National Sports Festival, Edo 2020 where he doled out cash gifts to the athletes who won medals and their coaches.

Governor Lalong said their efforts at the games were worth celebrating and remains a source of pride which reinforces the rich sporting history of Plateau State.

He said “After intensive competition at the 12-day National Sports Fiesta in Edo State, Plateau contingent took the 13th position and came home with 37 medals comprising of 8 gold, 13 silver, and 16 bronze. Although our aim was to emerge top, we are nevertheless proud of the efforts of our contingent who gave their best. I congratulate the athletes, coaches and other supporting staff for making us proud as the second best team in the North and the best in the North Central.”

Lalong then showered the athletes and their coaches with cash gifts by announcing that “all gold medalists will receive the sum of 1 million Naira each; Silver Medalists 700 Thousand Naira each; and Bronze Medalists 500 Thousand Naira each. Medal winning Coaches will also receive a flat rate of 300 Thousand Naira each; while other athletes will get ‘Thanks for Coming’ to be delivered by the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development.”

The Governor said his administration is determined to continue to develop sports particularly by developing grassroots sports which identifies, and projects future stars. He directed the Commissioners for Sports, Education as well as Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs to work together in restoring and reinvigorating the various school competitions, community games and other engagements that have huge benefits for talent discovery.

“I want the situation where each year, we should put together our own version of Plateau Sports Festival where we can comprehensively identify, harness and package our sporting talents who can go out to fly the flag of the State. This will be a springboard for their journey to the global stage” he said.

Commissioner for sports Mr. Victor Lapan praised the Lalong administration, which has continued to pay attention to developing sporting talents particularly at the grassroots through various youth programmes that discover, groom and showcase hidden potentials. According to him, since assuming office, Governor Lalong has sponsored Plateau sportsmen and women to various Championships and Tournaments which resulted in winning a total of 170 gold; 157 silver; and 170 bronze medals.

Lapan said the Lalong Rescue Administration has not lonely emphasised prioritization in project implementation, but has also opened its doors to the private sector to continue partnering with Government by sponsoring various sporting events and assisting in developing facilities.

Team Captain Ifeoma Juliet said the contingent was overwhelmed by the magnanimity of the Governor who surprised the athletes with such handsome financial gifts.

She appealed to the Governor to look at other issues of the welfare and logistics of the athletes, assuring that they will do more to deliver more victories to the State.

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

GAGDI DISTRIBUTES #31 MILLION WORTH OF RAMS, RICE AND CASH AS SALLAH PACKAGES. WISHES MUSLIM COMMUNITY A HAPPY EID-EL-KABIR

In his usual tradition of reaching out to his constituents with packages during festivities, the member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi has distributed one trailer load of 50kg rice, 332 rams and #10 million cash to Muslims in his constituency as Sallah package to commemorate the Eid-el-kabr celebration.

Personally supervising the distribution of the items in Jos and Dengi on Sunday and Monday 17th and 18th July, 2021 respectively, the lawmaker maintains that he is determined to meet the needs of his constituents in all aspects of their lives, adding that giving out such packages at such moments of religious festivity will help in no mean ways in ameliorating the plights of some downtrodden families in the society.

The lawmaker said he is really perturbed by hardships people are faced with in their daily lives, with some hardly having a meal on their tables in a whole day. Distributing such items, he said, will definitely put smiles on some faces; which is why he has made it a duty to embark on such activity during every festive period, regardless of its financial burden on him.

Religious leaders, traditional rulers, stakeholders, politicians youth groups, associations and women groups all benefited from the lawmaker’s benevolence.

60 Village heads and 106 non-salaried ward heads in Kanam LGA benefitted cash and rams Sallah packages, while Imams of 245 mosque in the local government area received cash packages ranging from 10k to 20k each.

All the ward excos of APC in the 20 state wards in Kanam local government area were given 30k per ward, whereas the LGA excos got rice and rams plus 10k cash packages per exco.

115 chambers in Dengi got 1 bag of rice and 10k each, while persons living with disabilities were also generously considered in the lawmaker’s generosity.

The atmosphere in Dengi, Kanam LG headquarters was in a frenzy mood as people from all walks of life were seen trooping in and out of the lawmaker’s residence with their Sallah packages.

Gagdi uses the opportunity to congratulate Muslim faithfuls on the celebration of EID-EL-KABIR and urges them to celebrate in unity, peace, love and forgiveness to one another.

Gagdi Media Team

NORTHERN GOVERNORS SALLAH MESSAGE

The Northern Governors Forum is felicitating with all the Muslim Ummah and Nigerians on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir.

Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State in a statement says that the occasion calls for sober gratitude to God and more prayers for God’s protection and deliverance of the nation from its current challenges.

Lalong said the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir stresses the call for sacrifice by Nigerians particularly leaders who have been saddled with the responsibility for managing the affairs of the nation and ensuring that unity, peace, justice and development is achieved.

He said Nigerians are a largely loving and peaceful people who have respect for one another irrespective of their differences. Despite the activities of a few that are desperate to propagate a negative narrative of discord and acrimony, the Governor said most Nigerians are tolerant and compassionate.

According to him, this realization has made the Northern Governors Forum to intensify synergy and collaboration with stakeholders and engagement with citizens in addressing the security challenges of the nation that are prevalent in the region and a major source of concern to all.

He said the situation cannot be allowed to bring the citizens to despair and hopelessness as no tough situation is permanent and above redemption, urging the faithful and all Nigerians to remain steadfast in working and praying for the peace, unity and progress of Nigeria and extending God’s blessings with each other irrespective of religious, tribal, political or other affiliations.

The Northern Governors Forum also used the occasion to congratulate the National Assembly for passing the long waited Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which will facilitate the exploration and exploitation of oil and gas resources in other parts of the country the economic benefit of the entire nation.

They wish the nation a peaceful Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum,
19th July 2021.

NDE VICTOR DAVID DIMKA fsi CONGRATULATES AND REJOICES WITH THE ENTIRE MUSLIM UMMAH ON THE CELEBRATION OF EID-EI-ADHA :

Nde Victor David Dimka fsi congratulates and rejoices with the entire Muslim Ummah on the celebration of the Eid El-Adha.

Nde Victor David Dimka fsi uses this medium to stress the need for sober reflection and prayers as we continue to concentrate on what unites us and build bridges of unity and hope.

Nde Victor David Dimka fsi wishes the entire Muslim Ummah well as they celebrate this important day.

DVD Media Team

PRESS RELEASE

ALPHA JET AIRCRAFT CRASHES IN ZAMFARA STATE, PILOT RESCUED

On 18 July 2021, at about 12.45 pm, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet aircraft, returning from a successful air interdiction mission between the boundaries of Zamfara and Kaduna State, came under intense enemy fire which led to its crash in Zamfara State. Luckily, the gallant pilot of the aircraft, Flight Lieutenant Abayomi Dairo, successfully ejected from the aircraft. Using his survival instincts, the pilot, who came under intense ground fire from the bandits, was able to evade them and sought refuge in nearby settlements awaiting sunset. Using the cover of darkness and his phone set for navigation, Flight Lieutenant Dairo was able to elude several bandits’ strongholds and maneuvered his way to a Nigerian Army Unit, where he was finally rescued.

It is instructive to note that upon receipt of the news of the crash, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, had directed that all efforts must be emplaced to rescue the pilot. Accordingly, NAF Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms and helicopter gunships provided close air support to NAF Special Forces and Nigerian Army troops who were able to locate the crash site and the pilot’s parachute, while also combing nearby locations for any sign of the pilot. It is gladdening to note that while in hiding, Flight Lieutenant Dairo confirmed that the presence of NAF aircraft within the vicinity of the crash site helped in scaring the bandits who were after him, thus enabling him to find refuge and escape to a safe location.

It is important to also recall that only recently, the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, had directed the Armed Forces of Nigeria to do all it takes to flush out criminal elements in Katsina, Zamfara and Kaduna States. It is in fulfilment of this directive that the NAF, in conjunction with surface forces, has in the last 2 weeks mounted intensive day and night air interdiction operations against bandits and their hideouts, especially in these 3 states. Through these intensive air operations, hundreds of bandits have been neutralized and several of their hideouts destroyed.

Despite the setback of yesterday’s crash, the NAF remains committed towards fulfilling Mr President’s mandate as well as other constitutional roles assigned to it. The willingness, readiness and tested ability of the NAF remains unshaken and unwavering as it continues to carry out its assigned roles.

Kindly bring the information to the awareness of the general public. Thank you.

Edward Gabkwet
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force

19 July 2021