PLATEAU GOVERNOR VISITS RURAL ELECTRIFICATION AGENCY, CANVASSES LIGHTING MORE COMMUNITIES
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has advocated for the lighting of more rural communities in the State through the deployment of Solar Mini Grid system.
Governor Lalong who visited the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in Abuja to meet with the Managing Director Engr. Ahmad Salihijo and his management team, commended the Agency for carrying out the 234 KWp Shemankar solar mini grid that has become a successful venture lighting up communities and improving the lives of the people.
He said his visit to the REA was to make another passionate appeal for a Solar Mini-Grid Deployment to Ajikamai, the community hosting the newly established Federal Polytechnic N’yak, Shendam LGA of Plateau State. According to him, as the new Polytechnic takes off, power is a major challenge because currently, the area is not connected to the national grid.
While appealing for urgent intervention, he said “Specifically, we shall appreciate if the REA program through the World Bank/Central Bank CARES initiative can be extended to the newly established Plateau State Energy Corporation as a means to enable the State government’s desire to deliver power to the Polytechnic and surrounding communities through the off-grid energy approach.”
Lalong said Plateau State energy sector is undergoing reforms with the establishment of the Plateau State Energy Corporation which is being positioned for synergy and policy implementation. He craved the assistance of REA in equipment supply and technical capacity building for the new Corporation.
He presented other requests to the Managing Director of the REA, urging the agency to partner with the Plateau State Government in expanding NESCO’S power generation capacity both in the existing hydro or exploring other renewables.
Responding, Managing Director REA Engr. Ahmad Salihijo appreciated the Governor for the visit and assured him that the agency will be captured under various programmes that are ongoing.
He cited the interventions that will soon be done in 3 markets in Jos namely: Building Materials, Rukuba Market and Katako. Other initiatives that the State is expected to benefit from are the Solar Power Naija program which has five communities. Others already implemented are the 5KW Health Centres project in five primary healthcare centres in the State under COVID-19.
Salihijo appealed to the Governor to nominate a State focal person that will liaise with the REA in carrying out some of the requests presented to the agency.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 28th July 2021.
WASE EQUITY PROJECT CONGRATULATES THE PEOPLE OF PLATEAU, NORTH CENTRAL AND NEIGHBOURING STATES ON THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY PASSAGE AND PRESIDENTIAL ASSENT OF THE BILL FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF JOS ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITAL.
27/7/2021
Wase equity project congratulates the people of Plateau, North central and the neighbouring States on passage by the National Assembly and the assent of the bill for the establishment of Jos orthopaedic hospital by President Muhammadu Buhari
The bill which was sponsored by our dynamic Deputy Speaker House of Representatives RT HON AHMED IDRIS WASE was signed into law on the 26th July, 2021 by Mr President at the presidential villa
We believe that this project will impact positively on the health needs of our people.
We wish to acknowledge the efforts of the Deputy Speaker of the 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 ensured its assent into law by Mr President.
We appreciate Mr President for making this dream a reality despite the obvious financial difficulties government is passing through as a result of the negative effect of COVID-19 on the economy.
We are therefore, calling on Plateau, North Central Zone and Nigerian citizens to continue to support the Federal Government, as well as the All Progressives Congress (APC) for ensuring more dividends of democracy.
GOVERNOR LALONG RECIEVES PLASU GOVERNING COUNCIL, ASSURES OF GREATER ATTENTION TO DEVELOPMENT
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has assured of greater commitment of his administration for the rapid development of the Plateau State University, Bokkos (PLASU).
The Governor who is the Visitor to the University, gave the reassurance when he recieved members of the new Governing Council for the University led by the Pro-Chancellor and Council Chairman, Monsignor Prof. Ibiora Ike during a courtesy visit to the Government House Rayfield Jos.
Lalong said the University has continued to grow rapidly after his Rescue Administration revived it on assuming office by making various interventions in academic reform and research, infrastructure, administration, staff welfare and higher student population.
The Governor said the Government is aware of the challenges of the Institution and has been doing its best to meet them based on available resources. He said COVID-19 has affected the funds of the State, making it difficult to fulfill all commitments including the demands of ASUU.
He however assured the Council that the Government will do its best for the institution, hoping that revenues will rise soon to enable the Government attend to other outstanding issues. The Governor also said he will continue to lobby and make contacts at the Federal Government and through the private sector for interventions that will facilitate research and teaching in the University.
Pro-Chancellor and Chairman PLASU Council, Monsignor Prof. Obiora Ike appreciated Governor Lalong for appointing him and other members of the Council, assuring that they will do their best to ensure that the University is taken to greater heights.
He said the council had held its inaugural meeting where some of the challenges of the Institution were highlighted. These according to him include staff welfare, more infrastructure, and other amenities to expand the scope of academic progress of the school.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 27th July 2021
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.
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