NORTHERN GOVERNORS MOURN WIFE OF LATE PRESIDENT HADIZA SHAGARI

The  Northern Governors Forum has sympathised with the family of former President Shehu Shagari over the death of his Widow, Hajiya Hadiza Shehu Shagari who died in Abuja on Thursday 12th August 2021.

In a statement, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong expressed deep sadness over the demise of the former First Lady who played a great role in the successes of her late husband and advanced the cause of women and children.

According to Governor Lalong, late Hajiya Hadiza Shagari was a humble woman who devoted significant attention to moral upbringing of not only her biological children and others she mentored, but also supported and promoted activities aimed at improving the nutrition, health and rights of women at all levels.

While asking God to grant her soul eternal rest, Lalong expressed the condolences of the Northern Governors to the Shagari family as well as Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and the entire people of Sokoto State.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum.
13th August 2021

GOVERNOR LALONG URGES PLATEAU FARMERS TO EMBRACE FLOWER PRODUCTION

Governor Simon Bako Lalong is urging farmers in Plateau State to take interest in flower production which is economically viable and in demand at the international market.

Governor Lalong who met with some French investors in Jos after their two day visit to the State said his administration is determined to return the State to the export of flowers which was popular in the 70s and 80s.

He said already, some farmers in the State are making progress in the cultivation of flowers and attracting demands from within and outside the country. He said this has reinforced the resolve of the Government to encourage and support interested farmers to go into the production.

The Governor said with the designation of the Yakubu Gowon Airport as a Cargo Airport, the export of flowers will be seamless. This he said will be complemented by the Inland Container Terminal which is being activated.

Earlier, leader of the French team, Yan Fortunato said after their visit which took them to six Local Government Areas of the State, they were convinced by the enormous potentials of the State in agriculture which need to be developed through mechanization and improved practices.

He said the team which was visiting Nigeria on behalf of some business partners in France, has identified areas such potato production and value chain development, flower production and export, cashew production and processing as well as forest development.

The team promised to convey their findings to their partners and return within a short time to continue the process of partnership with the State in establishing their businesses.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dr. Hosea Finangwai said the State already has a structure for agric business and partnerships particularly on areas such as potato production that is currently being supported by the African Development Bank.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
12th August 2021.

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL TO ESTABLISH PEACE CENTRE IN JOS

Rotary International is to establish a Peace Centre in Jos as part of its social responsibility for the consolidation of peace and harmony in Plateau State.

The 13th District Governor of District 9125 Ayoola Oyedokun stated this when he led members of the District on a courtesy visit to Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House Little Rayfield Jos .

Ayoola said they were at the Government House to introduce the new leadership and also explain the areas of focus for his tenure. He said the vision of his administration is along the general theme which is Serve to Change Lives.

He listed areas of intervention to include water and sanitation, environment, medical, family planning as well as reconstruction and rehabilitation of IDPs among others.

Ayoola commented Governor Lalong for his contributions and participation in Rotary activities as an member who has done so much not only for his Jos South Club and the District in general. He asked him to continue to support the activities of the body and also woo more members.

Governor Lalong while welcoming the team said the State Government has been very happy with its relationship with Rotary International which has supported the people of the State in various ways.

Lalong presented the certificate of occupancy of the land for the proposed Peace Centre to the Rotary Governor and assured them that the State Government would support the establishment of the Centre which is in line with the three point policy vision of the Rescue Administration.

He wished the new District Governor well and also assured him that he will continue to play his role as an active rotarian.

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

REVENUE MOBILIZATION TEAM MEETS GOVERNOR LALONG OVER DEVELOPMENT FUND

Sequel to the application by the Plateau State Government to access funds from the Development of Natural Resources Fund, the Committee on Fiscal Efficiency and Budget from the Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission Abuja has visited Jos to carry out an assessment of the State’s submission.

The Committee which was led by its Chairman Alhaji Adamu Shettimma Dibal, met with Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House Rayfield Jos.

Alhaji Dibal said the submission of Plateau State for accessing funding from the Resources Fund is in line with the guidelines setting up the fund which is for the provision funding for development of natural resources across the country.

He assured the Governor that after its visit, the Committee will give its report to the Commission for further consideration and approval.

Governor Lalong in a response thanked the Committee for the visit and said the State was reknown for potentials in agriculture, solid minerals and tourism which are areas that the funds will be applied to when approved.

He assured the Committee that Plateau State Government under his leadership is passionate about developing the potentials of the State and creating jobs for its teeming youth in order to reduce restiveness and crimes.

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

EIGHT SUSPECTS ARRESTED BY TROOPS OF OPERATION SAFE HAVEN IN CONNECTION WITH SHOOTING INCIDENCE IN RAFIN BAUNA IN BASSA LGA*

Troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) today Tuesday 10 August 2021 arrested 8 suspects in connection with the shooting of 3 women on a farm close to Rafin Bauna general area in Bassa LGA of Plateau State.

The troops earlier responded to a distress call that 3 women were shot on their farm close to Rafin Bauna by unknown gun men. Troops immediately mobilized to the scene and discovered 2 of the 3 women were shot dead on the spot, while one of the women sustained gunshot wounds. The bodies were recovered while the injured woman was evacuated to a medical facility for medical care. Unfortunately she later died while receiving treatment.

The general area was immediately cordoned off and 8 suspects were arrested in connection with the shooting incidence. The suspects are currently in the custody of OPSH and are undergoing interrogation.

The Commander OPSH Major General Ibrahim Ali has once again charged personnel to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to clamp down on criminal elements in the communities.

The Commander also urged law abiding citizens to always make use of the help center lines distributed to provide information to troops for prompt action. He reassured of his commitment to deal decisively with those bent on causing trouble in Plateau state and environs.

ISHAKU GAJI TAKWA
Major
Military Information Officer
10 August 2021

Governor Bako Lalong of plateau State has commended the Commandant General of Nigeria Security And Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for his efforts of repositioning the security architecture in State.

The Governor Stated this during the Inaugural passing out parade of the officers and men of the Plateau State Command of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) held on 9th August,21 at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium jos .

The Governor represented by the Secretary to the Governor professor Danladi Atu welcome the Commandant General of the Corps, Dr. A.A Audi, to Plateau State ,and congratulated him for bringing in new innovations to the operations of the Corps since taking office.
“Here in Plateau State, we are witnesses to the fact that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has contributed tremendously to the attainment of peace and security of our State.”

The Governor lamented the recent sad experience as a State and the current situation we face as a country reaffirms that without peace and security, we cannot achieve any meaningful development,hence the reason why peace and security remains the priority of APC administration in the state .
He further stressed that on assumption of office as the Executive Governor of plateau state, I resolved to find lasting solutions to the lingering crises on the Plateau and to return the State to its pride of place as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
“To ensure we achieve this objective, we established the Plateau Peace Building Agency with a clear mandate to drive the peace and reconciliation process and institutionalize the concept of peace beyond our administration”.
Similarly, we continued to support and strengthen the security agencies in the State by providing them with logistics and equipment to perform better.
“Only recently, we procured and distributed 50 patrol vehicles and 200 security motorcycles to various security agencies in the State. The NSCDC also took possession of its share.”
We have also ensured that the Operation Rainbow which enjoys a lot of support from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, is reformed and given more impetus to perform.
Through its operations and the collaboration of the Community Policing Constabulary as well as other community watch groups, we have been able to enhance the security of the State.
Lalong lamented that despite the Government’s efforts,we have continued to witness desperate attempts by crises merchants to resurrect violence and destruction in particular, recent isolated killings in some parts of the State such as in Dong, Jos North; Kwi in Riyom LGA; Barkin Ladi LGA; and Irigwe, Bassa LGA gives us serious concerns.
“I am particularly saddened by the recent wanton destruction of lives, properties and the deliberate destruction of farmlands and crops in many communities across Bassa.
This the Governor said the trend is unacceptable and I personally condemn in the strongest terms, the premeditated destruction and carnage brought upon our people by enemies of Peace and stability.
He explained that in the last Security Council Meeting held recently, I repeated my charge to the security agencies to deal decisively with those who are behind these attacks and safeguard our people.
I reminded them that there is a standing order by the President and Commander in Chief Muhammadu Buhari that unauthorized persons carrying AK 47 should be shot at sight.
“I expect all the security agencies to step up their operations in these areas and ensure they smoke out all militia groups from their operational bases.”
” Let me assure the citizens that our administration will never fold its arms to see few criminals take Plateau State back to those dark days of pain and sorrow. “

The Governor congratulated the newly trained officers and personnel of the NSCDC who have been given specialized training in weapons handling and urge the Command to deploy them systematically to critical areas to enable them confront criminals that are threatening the peace and security of our people.
“You know where these criminals are and you have my support to get in there and flush them out to be brought to justice. In particular, I want you to deploy personnel to the farms to protect our farmers who are being harassed by criminals and having their crops destroyed for no reason. These food terrorists must be stopped at all costs.”
“In the same vein, I wish to urge the newly trained personnel to be very professional and careful in handling weapons that will be put in your hands,they are not for oppressing the citizens but for protecting them.
However asked them to bear in mind that you shall be held personally accountable for misusing the weapons put in your hands in public trust.

“Also ensure that you resist the temptation to engage in unlawful assignments and conducts that are not authorized simply because you want to extort people and make money. Other acts such as collusion with criminals to commit crime will also not go unpunished. As the chief security officer of the State, I will not tolerate misconduct from any security official, whether high or low. “
However, I assure the security agencies in the State particularly the NSCDC of the consistent support and collaboration of my administration in making their task easier. We are benefitting enormously from your presence in the rural areas and in intelligence gathering. Because of your training in dealing with the civilian population, we see you as a great partner.

Let me again congratulate the State Commandant of the NSCDC who within the short time of his posting to Plateau State has shown great enthusiasm and determination to make the State more secure and crime-free.

“To the personnel who are passing out today, I rejoice with you for enduring this rigorous training and passing the test.

NORTH CENTRAL PEOPLES FORUM VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG, EMPHASIZE SECURITY AND UNITY

The North Central Peoples Forum (NCPF) has maintained that there must be more proactive measures to address the security situation in the country and particularly in the North Central region.

The group made the call when they visited Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State to condole with in him over the recent spate of attacks in some communities of Plateau State and other States of the North Central part of Nigeria as well as introduce the body to him.

The Forum was led by its BOT Chairman, Lt. Gen. Sen. Jeremiah Timbut Usaini who said they are in the office on behalf of the people of North Central Zone of Nigeria to assure the Governor and the people of the State of their readiness to support and encourage and partner with his administration. He said the Forum comprises of people of different religions, ethnic and political leanings, cutting across the North Central States of Nigeria. These include, Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, Kwara, Kogi, Niger and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Useni further explained that the purpose of the group is to unite its people in ensuring that peace and stability is sustained; rapid industrialization is facilitated; sound policies and process that will ensure that the massive minerals and agricultural endowment are adequately harnessed; and good policies are embraced for good governance, stability and progress of the region and Nigeria as a whole.

He also said the North Central Peoples Forum is a platform with men and women from different works of life who have had the opportunity of serving this nation in various capacities and are ready to serve its people by giving it a voice to be heard.

The Forum commended Governor Lalong for all the efforts he has been making in keeping Plateau and thereafter inaugurated him into the college of PATRONS of the Forum that comprises of former Presidents, Head of State, Governors, Senate Presidents, Deputy Senate Presidents and Deputy Speakers of House of Representatives.

In his response, Governor Lalong thanked the Forum for not relenting despite the challenges faced in seeing that the forum came into existence and stable.

The Governor Lalong described Gen Usaini as a man with the interest of Plateau and the Nation at heart, patriotic in nature who keeps political differences aside for the good of mankind, North Central and the Nation at large.

He said it is timely to have the North Central Peoples Forum because other zones have equally formed their forum for the purpose of cooperation.

He called on all to imbibe the principle of peace which are anchored on justice and fairness without which there will be no peace, tolerance and goodwill that could stimulate the sharing of ideas on comparative advantage for the development of the North Central Zone.

He pledged commitment to the cause of the Forum and to support all programmes of the Forum with the believe that it will guide the zone through restoration of peace because once there is peace in the North Central Zone, there will be peace in Nigeria.     

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

The National Universities Commission has suspended the license of newly approved COCIN Karl Kumm University, Jos. This follows prolonged disputes with the University’s host community, Official sources say.

A letter from the NUC, dated 6th August, 2021 was on Saturday delivered to owners of the University – the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), the University authorities and the Plateau State Government, the source revealed.

The Light Bearer newspaper, a publication of COCIN had reported that the University, approved in February risks its operational license, due to disagreements with land owners over the appointment of a Registrar. The host community is claiming the position of the Registrar as a right.

Protests started in June after an official announcement of a “native” Registrar, Mr. Daniel Kim was withdrawn following “petitions” from the Nigerian National Universities Commission.

Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Nanven Gambo told The Light Bearer; “The NUC representative in the University’s Board of Trustee observed after the appointments were announced, that the NUC was still investigating the Registrar. They therefore made it clear that they will therefore not approve of his appointment.

“The BoT was left with no choice but to withhold his appointment letter and investigate the matter. This was for possible appeal but it found that truly he failed to disclose his status as a federal retiree. The relevant laws say you cannot as a federal retiree be appointed to a substantive position.

“Again it was discovered that he had a pending suit with the Plateau State University Bokkos, and all of these were not disclosed before his appointment.”

However, over 500 protestors from the University’s host community, led by native lawyers – Mr. Emmanuel Mangu and Mr. Weng Emmanuel, claimed that the University’s decision was a breach of agreements between the University and the community.

In a press release, the youths said, “The Vwang (host) community donated lands free of charge without any form of percuniary compensations whatever from COCIN (University owners) for the take off KKU sited in Vom.

“The KKU/COCIN then Executives entered a pact reduced as A Memorandum Of Understanding with the Vwang community, as condition precedent for the establishment of the citadel of learning in Vom, which entails community social development programs geared towards rendering succor to the host community.

“It’s with utmost dismay, and is regretably lugubrious to assert that, COCIN in collaboration with KKU management BoT have wittily schemed out if not relegated Vwang community, and by extension, the Berom Nation from enjoying the terms and conditions contained therein in the pact thereof. And whereas have refused to respect such an MOU of that magnitude, which poses ostensibly inimical dangers to the peace and tranquility of COCIN as a Church and smooth take off of KKU Vom. We see perpetrators of this unwittingly unwise actions as enemies of progress and merchants of crisis.”

“Vwang as a host community to the KKU has contributed alot, with materials worth millions of Naira, in kind and cash donations of computers through one eminent son of the soil. That worth commendable appreciations from management of KKU and COCIN. However, the reverse is the case where unscrupulous few out of greed and envy have turned against fighting the hands that fed them lavishly.”

A memorandum of understanding signed on 5 Nov. 2007 between Vwang community and Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) “for the gift of land” for the siting of the University, partly says, on the appointment of principal officers; “any person qualified from the host community will be considered on merit.”

However, rejecting Mr. Kim, a native of Fan District in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, the protesting locals said is “broad day robbery and injustice” on his tribe. But the University, Vice Chancellor Gambo said intends to reflect the “diversity” of COCIN, an international Church.

“In the first place, the University is an institution and no one person or group has the right to impose decisions on it. Such decisions even when taken by its various organs cannot be seen to favour a particular group. There are laid down rules, which are universal, and cannot be breached by a Church that is diverse and international in make-up,” Gambo said.

A mediation committee was set up by COCIN to negotiate with the community. But a resource verification exercise intended by regulatory Officials to start academic academic activities in the University has been halted for weeks. The protestors had locked the entrance of the University, allegedly threatening anyone going in.

The suspension if unsolved might create job losses for members of the host community who constitute 70% of junior employees in the University, as well as artisans working on its construction sites.

PLATEAU AND CROSS RIVER GOVERNORS MEET FRENCH AMBASSADOR/INVESTORS ON AGRICULTURE, SOLID MINERALS

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong and his Cross River counterpart Ben Ayade were at the French Embassy in Abuja to meet with the Ambassador Jerome Pasquier and some investors from France who are on a visit to the two States to discuss areas of investment particularly in potatoes production and value chain development.

Governor Lalong recalled his visit to the Ambassador in January this year where they discussed wide areas of cooperation and investment. During the discussions, Lalong had intimated the envoy of the vast potentials in agriculture, solid minerals, tourism and education, asking the Ambassador to facilitate investors into Plateau from his country.

He expressed happiness that despite COVID-19 restrictions, the Ambassador has been able to facilitate the visit of the investors who have come to the country to look at the agricultural investment opportunities in Plateau and Cross River  States on behalf of some clusters of the business community in France.

The Governor reminded the Ambassador that the Plateau Investment and Economic Summit is coming up next month and is expected to further unlock the economic opportunities of the State and woo investors to bring in their resources and create jobs.

The French Ambassador to Nigeria assured the Governors that the two investors were in the country specifically to look at agricultural opportunities in areas of potato farming, preservation and marketing and well as exotic crops and flowers that are in high demand around the world. He said more linkages were being arranged to ensure that the relationship is beneficial to both parties.

Earlier, Governor Lalong had granted audience to the investors at the Governor’s lodge, Asokoro where he told them that the potato value chain programme of the State is on course and the partnership of the private sector is needed.

The investors are expected to visit Plateau State for further engagements.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
9th August 2021

GOVERNOR LALONG VOWS TO CONFRONT INSECURITY; HARPS ON DOCUMENTING IDEAS DURING DEDICATION OF FOUR BOOKS PUBLISHED BY COCIN PRESIDENT.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed regret that despite the huge investment of the State in enhancing the capacity of security agencies in the State to confront criminals, the attacks on communities particularly in Bassa and Riyom have not stopped.

Governor Lalong was speaking at the COCIN Headquarters Jos during the dedication of four books published by COCIN President Rev. Prof. Dacholom Datiri.

The Governor said the recent attacks in Bassa and Riyom LGAs was regrettable and coming shortly after the State Government spent resources to purchase and distribute 50 patrol vehicles and 200 motorcycles to the security agencies.

Lalong while sympathising with the people said the time has come for everyone to provide the first line of security by gathering intelligence, passing same to security agencies as well taking all necessary steps to guard against vulnerability. He vowed to continue to fight insecurity and promote peace building.

On the books published by the COCIN President,  Lalong charged Nigerians, particularly those in position of influence to document their ideas and activities so as to pass knowledge and valuable history to guide the upcoming generati

Governor Lalong who praised Rev. Datiri for putting down his ideas which contain some of his sermons and experiences in four books, described the act as commendable as it will assist in educating the citizens particularly youths who need information and historical background to many issues.

Lalong said that is why his administration has not only worked hard to enhance the quality of public education, but also supported religious organisations and the private sector to provide quality education to the citizens.

On the recently approved Karl Kumm University Vom, the Governor urged the leadership of COCIN which is the proprietor of the Institution to step in and resolve pending issues with the host community which are threatening the take off of the school.

Chairman of the occasion Prof. Suleiman Bogoro represented by Prof. Gofwen described the publications as very valuable considering the messages contained therein which touch on several aspects that deal with the building of a better society.

The Author, COCIN President, Rev. Prof. Datiri said he decided publish the four books to address key issues that relate to the interaction between human beings and their relationship with God.

The books are entitled: Becoming Kingdom Citizens; Being an Overcomer; Designed for Fruitfulness; and Imitating Christ.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
8th August 2021.