GOVERNOR LALONG CONDOLES DEPUTY SPEAKER HOUSE OF REPS, IDRIS WASE OVER DEATH OF SISTER.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State has visited the residence of the Deputy Speaker, Idris Wase in Jos to commiserate with him over the death of his elder sister, Hajiya Maryam Idris Abdullahi Maikano who died recently.
Lalong described late Hajiya Maryam, wife of the late Emir of Wase Alhaji Abdullahi Maikano as a virtous woman who demonstrated exceptional humility, generosity, kindness and honesty during her lifetime and lived an exemplary lifestyle.
Governor Lalong accompanied by the Secretary to the Government of the State, Prof. Danladi Abok Atu, Chief of Staff Noel Donjur, Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Hyat as well as Commissioners of Transport, Information and Communication, and Special Duties.
While urging the Deputy Speaker and members of the family to accept her death as the will of God, Governor Lalong said her legacies will remain a point of reference for a very long time.
Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Idris Wase thanked the Governor for his words of comfort, support and personal visit which affirms his humility, compassion and kindness.
Elder brother to the Deputy Speaker Retired Justice Yakubu Idris also welcomed the visit of the Governor, describing it as another gesture that has characterised inclusivity and non discrimination of the Lalong administration.
He urged the Governor to remain firm in his passion for peace and security which is the basic requirement for development. He said the efforts of Governor Lalong have yielded good results, making Plateau one of the relatively safe states in the country.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 26th July 2021. Photos; Josiah Jenvulu
WASE EQUITY PROJECT WELCOMED THE SIGNING INTO LAW THE BILL FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF JOS ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITAL.
26/7/2021
Wase equity project welcomed the signing into law the bill for the establishment of Jos orthopaedic hospital by President Muhammad Buhari
The bill which was sponsored by The Deputy Speaker House of Representatives RT HON AHMED IDRIS WASE was signed today the 26th July, 2021 by Mr President at the presidential villa
We believe that among many competing demands across states, the Federal government looked the way of Plateau State with this yet another project that will impact positively in the life of our people.
We wish to acknowledge the efforts of the Deputy Speaker of house of representatives His Excellency, Rt Hon Ahmed Idris Wase who leveraged on his personal and official contacts to get the bill passed by the national assembly and subsequently signed into law by Mr President at this critical time,which when taken off will impact positively on the health needs of Plateau State and the North Central Zone at large.
We appreciate Mr President for making this dream a reality despite the financial difficulties government is passing through, to the extent of cutting down on budgets and suspending some projects as a result of the negative effect of economic realities.
We are therefore, calling on Wase, Plateau,North central Zone and Nigerian citizens to continue to support the Federal Government,as well as the All Progressives Congress (APC) for more gains of democracy in the form of projects and appointments.
GOVERNOR LALONG LAUDS PRESIDENT BUHARI FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITAL JOS
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed deep appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for signing the Orthopedic Hospitals Management Board (Amendment) Act, 2021, which amends the Orthopedic Hospitals Management Board Act Cap. O10 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to provide for the establishment of the Orthopedic Hospital Jos Plateau State.
The Hospital which is under the control of the Orthopedic Hospitals Management Board, will be affiliated to the Jos University Teaching Hospital to provide specialised orthopedic treatment and medical services.
Governor Lalong said he received the cheering news of the President’s assent to the amended Act with excitement and profound gratitude because of the impact it will have not only on people of Plateau State, but other neighbouring States.
Lalong also praised the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Idris Wase for sponsoring the bill and following through with its passage and assent.
He thanked the leadership of the National Assembly, members of the Plateau caucus in the National Assembly and other legislators who played a great role in supporting the passage of the amended Act.
He said the establishment of the Orthopaedic Hospital Jos will bring great relief to patients within Plateau State and other surrounding States who for now have to travel far distances to access orthopaedic treatment.
The Governor expressed hope that the Hospital when fully operational will take care of accident victims along the Jos corridor which is a major transit route linking many States in the North and Central parts of the country.
He assured of the cooperation of the Plateau State Government towards the successful take off and operations of the Orthopaedic Hospital.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. July 26, 2021
GOVERNOR LALONG PRAISES FORMER VC, UNIJOS PROF. MAIMAKO FOR LIFTING INSTITUTION
Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong has described the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Seddi Sebastian Maimako as a scholar of repute and resourceful administrator whose tenure ushered in a great era of academic and infrastructural achievements for the institution.
Governor Lalong who was among thousands of guests that joined the former Vice Chancellor for the Thanksgiving Mass at the St. Mary Catholic Church, Lu’ukwo, Bakin Chiyawa, Quan-pan LGA of Plateau State said Prof. Maimako left a legacy of excellence, hardwork, inclusivity, and progressive leadership in the University of Jos.
He said under Professor Maimako’s leadership as the 9th Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, so much was achieved in research, teaching, Infrastructural development, campus harmony and breakthroughs in academic grants.
Lalong said the testimony of both staff, students, regulatory bodies and many who have had contact with the institution during his stewardship affirm the fact that he was prudent, transparent, fair, kind and just to all manner of people which enabled him propel the institution to the pedestal of greatness it has been placed today.
The Governor said this has brought pride to the Government and people of Plateau State and demonstrates the capacity of the citizens of the State to hold higher responsibilities and discharge them diligently. He wished the Vice Chancellor more years of higher service to the nation and humanity.
In a homily, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Gowok citing Bible references from 2 Kings 4:42-44; John 6:1-15; among others said Christians are supposed to be concerned about what name they acquire in every responsibility they are given rather than acquiring wealth that does not last.
Fr. Gowok however acknowledged the testimony of Prof. Maimako whom he said has been variously described as a humble, professional and honest administrator that carried people along and preferred to leave behind a good name rather than riches.
Catholic Archbishop of Jos, Rev. Dr. Matthew Ishaya Audu said God gives people assignments as a way of attracting their diligence and productivity. He commended the former Vice Chancellor for returning to thank God for his tenure, an attribute that is encouraged in the Bible and obeyed by those who fear God and acknowledge his love for them.
Prof. Maimako in a remark expressed gratitude to God for lifting him up from a humble background and entrusting him with a huge responsibility such as the leadership of one of the prominent Federal Universities in Nigeria.
He thanked both the Management, staff and students of the University of Jos for supporting and challenging him to give his best in the last five years. Maimako also expressed deep appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Lalong, Minister of Education, among others for backing him throughout his tenure.
Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Gray Ejikeme described the era of Prof. Maimako as very productive and inspiring, with tangible academic and physical development results that have made teaching and research easier.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 25th July 2021.
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
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