The provost, Plateau State College of Nursing and Widwifery Vom, Mr. Bako Danlami Sambo today held a meeting with the students of the institution to mark the end of the Management scheduled meetings with Stakeholders of the institution. The meetings were held in the two campuses of the College.
In his speech,Mr. Danlami advised the students to invest their youthful energies in rewarding ventures, be security conscious, portray good morals, shun violence obey all guiding school laws, and called for good time management as a crucial factor in ensuring successful academic life.
He implored them to be of good conduct, be good representatives of the institution and to channel their suggestions and complains to the appropriate authorities.
On their part, the Deputy Provost,Registrar, Bursar and Librarian of the institution also urged the students to be focused on their goals and not misuse the opportunity of being admitted noting that the institution has provided a good learning environment and apparatus for them to achieve their goals.
Today’s meeting climaxed with the commissioning of a well dug by the Director of the School of Midwifery Vom. She revealed that the move was also geared at complementing the efforts of College management in the task of providing potable water for students in the institution.
Audu Bappidak Sambo. Public Relations and Protocol Officer (CONMVOM)
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has continued the installation of more traditional rulers with the coronation and presentation of staff of office to two upgraded Chiefs in Jos South Local Government Area, their Royal Highnesses Dagwom Rwey of Gyel, Jos South LGA, Da Nga Dangyang on 2nd Class And Gwom Rwey of Zawan, Da Christopher Mancha on 3rd Class.
At the event, the Governor said it was the fulfillment of his promise to ensure that he makes the dream of those who want to have their chiefdoms and districts come to pass according to the laws of the land.
He said being one of his last assignments, he was happy that the people of Gyel and Zawan can attest to the fact that when he made that promise to create Districts and Chiefdoms, it was not for political purposes but because of his genuine love to take governance to the grassroots and also ensure that all people in the state are liberated.
He said “As I have always emphasized, the Traditional Institution is so dear and vital to the survival of our cultural heritage as it forms the bedrock of our coexistence as a people that share common and unique identity. The continuous maintenance of the norms, traditions and the way things are done must be safeguarded in the greater interest of the people”.
Lalong reminded them that since coming on board, he had paid greater attention on reviving the Traditional Institution so that it can contribute meaningfully in the developmental strides of the government.
“Consequently, we created 285 Districts, restored 2 First Class; 6 Second class; and 10 Third Class Chiefdoms across the State. Despite my Government’s efforts to fill in the few vacant stools in the State, the lingering litigation among the Royal Class in some chiefdoms brought setback. It is unfortunate that as we leave office, some of these Chiefdoms remain vacant to the disadvantage of the citizens. Nevertheless, we will continue to do our best to persuade the parties to take necessary to resolve the issues. However, we shall maintain our position of non-interference in selection of Chiefs” he said.
Lalong described as unfortunate the fact that some persons feel threatened that others are aspiring to get Chiefdoms even after many years of complaining that they have been marginalised.
Chairman Jos South Local Government Mr. Gideon Dandereng praised Governor Lalong for being a man of his words and also ignoring the wishes of a few who kept suppressing the larger cries of the people to have their self determination.
He said the elevation of the Da Gwom Rwey Gyel to 2nd class having has been on the throne as a district head for 54 years is a legacy that Governor Lalong is leaving behind which he will be remembered for by generations to come.
Vice Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs HRH Miskoom Martin Shaldas III, Long Gamai of Gamailand also thanked Governor Lalong for what he has done for the traditional institution through his humility, great foresight and uniting factor.
Representatives of the Zawan and Gyel Development Associations were also excited that the day they have long waited for has come to pass and the people are grateful for the Lalong Rescue Administration.
Responding, the Da Gwom Rwey Gyel Jos South Da Nga Dangyang said he was a fulfilled man and really blessed to witness this day which he thought will never come.
He thanked Governor Lalong who ignored those that had suppressed the upgrade for many years saying that his people are happy and would continue to work with the Government to maintain peace and security in their domain.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Hon. Sylvanus Tapgun urged the Royal Highnesses to work hard in ensuring that tolerance, openness, accommodation, fairness and justice is achieved under their reigns.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State. 11th May 2023
Normalcy has returned to Plateau State University Bokkos since three female students of the institution were harassed and attempted to be rapped by yet to be identified men who in the process; injured one of the girls. The fear that came with the incident, gribble the minds of the university community who have in the recent past, enjoyed relative calm on the campus. The Vice Chancellor Professor Malau Matur Bernard and his management team, alleys fears of the students by the commitment been expressed in engaging both the institution’s security and the conventional agencies towards restoring normalcy and enduring peace on the campus and off campus. In the VC’s word’s: ” we will not allow criminality to thrive in PLASU” During a dialogue with the institution’s management security heads and students Union leaders were advised to avoid unnecessary night movements, get whistle and be security conscious which is the best way of safeguarding themselves. Phone contacts were shared among students Union heads and the security heads for ease of contact during emergency situations. Professor Matur also made it clear that he will not allow any obstacle stand in way of the university’s academic calendar. John K. Agam Public Relations Officer, Plateau State University, Bokkos.
The Management of Plateau State University Bokkos has expressed shock and sadness over the attack on some three female students leaving off campus by yet to be identified hoodlums who were trying to rape them but could not succeed.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Malau Bernard Matur while addressing various heads of students unions in his office, urged students to go about their normal academic activities as the security agencies investigate the matter.
He called on staff and students to avoid taking laws in their hands. “Management will not allowed students to participate in any demonstration that will distort academic activities. Be calm as we fight criminality in our dear University.”
Commandant Sector 5, Operation Safe Haven Bokkos Local Government Area, Lieutenant Colonel T. T. Paave while speaking on behalf of other security agencies assured that base on information and collaboration from the university community, they will nip criminality at all cost.
As part of safety measures, students were advised to buy whistle as well as being vigilante by avoiding night movements.
It was gathered that the three female students of the university who leave off campus were said to have gone out to get firewood to complete cooking after exhausting their cooking gas.
On returning from fetching firewood that the three girls made some young men whom they earlier greeted and identified as Fulani, attempted to rape them but could not succeed due to the struggle and effort of the girls.
At the process, one of the girls sustained an injury while other girls ran for safety.
The two girls had been hospitalized and taking care of. The Vice Chancellor condemned the barbaric act and assured to protect staff and students both in campus and off campus.
After listening to variou issues presented by student union heads to include: their security safety, electricity, and portable water which the management promised to look into it.
Those who were present at the meeting were the Principal Management of institution, leadership of Student’s Union Government, National Association of Nigerian Students, National Association of University Students, National Association of Plateau State Students and Association of Nigerian Female Students.
The Vice Chancellor has earlier on addressed the entire students at the students Center, calling on them to remained calm and focus while the management in collaboration with the security agencies are committed in fighting criminality within and outside the university campus.
It is no longer news that Rt Hon Yususf Adamu Gagdi, House Committee Chairman on Navy has joined the fray to become the Speaker, House of Representatives for the 10th Assembly. He joins the race with several other aspirants to slug it out for the position.
Since he was re-elected for a second term to represent Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency during the February 25, 2023 National Assembly election; after which his constituents gave him the nod to go for the coveted office, he has left no one in doubt of his intentions.
It could be recalled that as soon as campaigns were rounded for the elections, the confidence that exuded from his camp was palpable, no wonder, the election that was being awaited was seen as fait accompli. Everything fell into place, as he convincingly won the contest; thus assuring his constituents that it was proper to pursue other higher interests.
It will be recalled that when Gagdi debuted in 2019, into the national parliament, he ‘quickly got involved in the internal politics at the time, aligned with the “progressives” camp and eventually became the chairman of Navy Committee, a committee ordinarily would not be given to a first timer. He did not disappoint the House; neither did he fail on the home front, as he gave a good account of his capability while he served’.
As soon as the consultations started, it was common knowledge that, he was one whose political adroitness would come to play in several ways. First, he needed the buy-in of a number of stakeholders both in the All Progressives Congress (APC), and in the other parties whose members were going to the National Assembly. The latest consultative visit was on Friday, May 5, 2023 to Governor Mohammed Badaru Abubakar of Jigawa State, where he had gone to share with him his thoughts about the aspiration for the speakership.
His visit to the President on April 30, 2023 was another master stroke and a show of a rounded approach to reaching out to all those who matter. If anything, it was a display of the people’s representative’s determination to achieve his goal.
The manner with which he undertook to visit state governors and other party leaders in states was instructive of a politician whose capacity at selling his candidature and how he has been able bring quality into the advocacy can be described as simply awesome in many respects.
Such approach shows the finest stuff with which he is imbued with over the years running; and it will be long as there are no signs of slowing down soon. As a result of his capacity to seek views and meet with personalities that matter either alone or in group, those he has met are indeed in awe of the tremendous quality of his commitment to the Nigerian project. Above all, he strongly brings to the struggle the ever present quality of commitment and industry associated with patriotic Nigerian youth.
It is what is now counting in his favour; for which he has already received accolades and several recommendations from the high and low in most parts of Nigeria. We have maintained, and it is not for fun, he is a history maker. For his industry and commitment and even more, he is the first legislator in the history of democracy in Nigeria to have had six of his private bills assented to by Mr. President.
All the bills are ones that can engender development as well as provide jobs for hundreds of thousands of young people in Nigeria. If reducing employment is anything to go by, Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi has become a recurring decimal in most families having taken off their children and given them jobs in as many organizations as have been possible. This is not to forget the numerous empowerment schemes tailored towards helping people in various fields that could set beneficiaries on the path of profitability and sustenance.
Already, Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi has made a promise: I want to be a Speaker for the Nigerian people. I don’t want to be a regional Speaker. God willing I will be a Speaker for the Nigerian people irrespective of tribe, religion. I will be saying that my primary responsibility is to add value to the people of the country.
‘The qualities that I will expect from the next Speaker are capacity, sincerity, honesty and commitment. I want to see a just Speaker, one that will protect the interest of the people of all the geopolitical formations in Nigeria irrespective of population and what have you’.
Such capacity and credibility can only be exhibited by one who knows his onions and is ready to give more of such service to the nation for a long time to come. It can be safely said that one of the reasons he got the nod for his second term is the amount of work he did for Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency. It can be argued that no other representative has exhibited commitment in the provision of quality service as he has done in the last four years. Again, that in itself is another record being set by him for giving a good account of his capacity.
Throughout the length and breadth of the communities that make the federal constituency, a compendium of what is been executed are, without doubt eye-popping as they convey in detail the quality of representation they have been given by the man who, today is the top contender of the office of Speaker.
Having been close to the power block in the House in the last four years; for which he has given a good account of that relationship. It is safe to conclude that the ropes are familiar to him and would serve him well should he be given the levers of power by his colleagues on the day of proclamation in about 40 days to come. As things stand, Gagdi stands on the threshold as the next good thing to happen, despite mounting pressures by the Fred Agbedi’s Greater Majority, which is insisting on contesting the positions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker by opposition parties.
Realizing his reach, groups, individuals and civil society organizations have spoken variously why Gagdi is suitable for the position. There are also several groups or caucuses which have emerged in the House since the general elections were concluded in February 2023 daily consulting to arrive at satisfying all the sensibilities of the moment; which seek to unite all parts of the country together.
Interestingly, some of his colleagues have spoken widely about his capacity for the position. David Umar who will represent Kachia/Kagarko in Kaduna State in the 10th Assembly understands the trajectory of the man who is gunning to become Nigeria’s Speaker. Umar was quoted as saying: Nigeria’s young people represented the present and future Nigeria, but noted that the demographics of political leadership in the country do not represent this reality.
He asked further: What is the part of the youth in the political leadership calculation? Where is the place of the youth in our democracy? Is it only as legislative and media aides?
’The answer is made available by Hon David Umar almost immediately in favour of the top contender: Experience is not about years spent in parliament without results; it is about having the knowledge of how to use your office to better the lives of Nigerians as Gagdi has done’.
But above all, it is being argued that there are some lawmakers who were more experienced than Gagdi in parliamentary business, because he was going for his second term was not tenable. It is on record that he has surpassed those lawmakers in legislative functions in just four years of representation. What better evidence could there be other than the enormous capacity he has displayed with abundant results to boot in the House?
Gagdi’s intentions if he wins the race are well documented in a note he aptly titled: One Nation, Forward Together, he offers copiously what he wants to achieve: For the tenth National Assembly, beyond considerations and bills, motions and resolutions, our highest obligation will be to provide the arena necessary for the impassioned yet civil debates and constructive engagements required to answer this fundamental question’. That, ‘for us in Nigeria, the great unresolved question that continues to unsettle our republic that stands in the way of us reaching for the stars, is this-what does it mean to be a Nigerian?’
As recent as April 28, 2023, while inviting critical stakeholders and supporters to official campaign launch for the office of Speaker of the House of Representatives which was held yesterday at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Gagdi had stated: ‘The legislature has a strategic role in ensuring the success of our democracy. If we live up to this responsibility, we will retain the faith and confidence of Nigerian people in the democratic project, and we will have their support to embark on critical, long overdue reforms to the politics, governance and structure of our country. In this election as Speaker, I believe that my personal and political history, legislative experience, and achievements in office put me in good stead to meet and exceed the Nigerian people’s high expectations for this 10th House of Representatives.’
With the array of guests at the May 6, 2023 (yesterday’s event), which had Prince Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State as special guest, it is instructive to state that a statement was made. The manifesto he presented speaks against the backdrop of a man who is well prepared to lead his colleagues during one of the most challenging periods of the country’s political history. Certainly as it has been stated, if ‘we must have a leadership that recognizes the importance of the moment’; such will ‘rise to the occasion as it demands’.
Even though the North Central zone has not yet been officially given the nod to produce the Speaker, however, the point has been canvassed: It is the only zone which had tasted the speakership position for just three months (October to December 1983). The fact that the All Progressives Congress was yet to be decided is not enough to stop aspirants from gaining the support of the members and indeed of Nigerians.
The North Central zone is indeed an asset in more ways than one for the ruling party. In the last eight years, the states have produced governors twice; and therefore nothing can be any better than to compensate the zone with a plum office as that of the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Should it be zoned to North Central zone, the two major members that would slug it out are Ahmed Idris Wase and Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, who are both from Plateau State.
The names of the other gladiators have received mention variously. One thing is certain; for which he wants Nigerians to know: The tenth House of Representatives can be the engine room of innovation and transformative governance. It can be a legislature that reflects the best possibilities of nationhood, a place where men and women who believe in the worthy cause of Nigeria can, with character and courage, wisdom and humility confront our most significant national challenges’.
Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong has disclosed that Northern Governors of the APC supported power shift to the Southern part of Nigeria in order to promote the unity, peace and stability of Nigeria within the spirit of fairness, equity and justice which the late Premier of the Northern Region Sir Ahmadu Bello stood for.
Lalong was speaking at the 9th Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture on Leadership and Good Governance held in Lafia, Nasarawa State. He said because the late Sardauna lived a life of accommodation, tolerance, justice and fairness, his legacies have endured long after his demise and continue to inspire leadership in the region and country at large.
“When I led my colleagues the Northern Governors to push for power shift to the south, it was not because we wanted Asiwaju to be President. Rather, we wanted to ensure that justice and fairness prevails in our nation for the unity, peace and harmony. That is what we believe our revered father of blessed memory Sir Ahmadu Bello would do in such circumstances. Fortunately, the party delegates chose Asiwaju who was eventually accepted by Nigerians as he was unanimously elected”.
Lalong urged all Nigerians, both in the North and across the country, to support President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he takes on the mantle of leadership. He said the North is an important stakeholder in the Nigerian project and its contributions towards his election cannot be over emphasized.
The Northern region needs serious attention in various sectors ranging from security, education, infrastructure, agriculture, economic revival and restoration of law and order in various areas that have been ravaged by insecurity.
“It is heartening to note that the Northern Governors Forum, under my leadership, has done a great deal of work on bringing our people together as one people with one a common destiny” he said.
Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule said it was a privilege for his state to host the very important event which reminds the region and the nation about the values that Sardauna lived and died for.
He said although there have been challenges in the country after the demise of Sir Ahmadu Bello, some progress has been made which can be built upon to make the Northern Region and Nigeria a better place.
Speaking on the topic “2023 Elections as Panacea for Search for Quality Leadership in Nigeria,” Kenyan Law Professor and pan Africanist Patrick Lumumba said the late Sardauna left behind several lessons for politicians which include his selflessness and sacrifice for the general good.
He said the question of unity and cohesion in Nigeria particularly after the 2023 general elections cannot be over emphasized because Nigeria plays a very key role in the stability of Africa being a giant in all ramifications.
Lumumba stressed that the sacrifices of founding fathers like Sardauna who paid the supreme price should not be left to go in vain but built upon for a greater Nigeria and Africa.
President Muhammadu Buhari in a message delivered by Chief of Staff Prof. Ibrahim Gambari said it is important that Nigerians devote more attention to recruiting quality leaders who are capable of steering the nation in the right direction.
He also said the process of elections should also be looked at and continously improved upon to ensure that those who serve the people have their mandate and also enjoy their support.
Emir of Lafia HRH Sidi Bage said the lecture series is an opportunity opportunity to reflect on the dreams of Sardauna but also a way of putting critical national and regional issues on the front burner.
He thanked Governor Lalong who as Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum worked hard to ensure that the Traditional Institution is given a place in the governance of Nigeria much as it was during the time of the Sardauna.
The next Sardauna Lecture is scheduled to take place in Maiduguri.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum. 6th May 2023.
It was a moment of jubilation and thanksgiving at the Government House, Rayfield Jos as family, friends and staff converged to rejoice with Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong who turned 60.
Governor Lalong accompanied by his wife Regina Lalong was ushered into the presence of enthusiastic guests and well wishers who came to congratulate him and wish him well.
Chaplain of the Government House Chapel Rev. Fr. Godfrey Gopep said the special day calls for thanksgiving and prayers to God for giving the Governor long life and good health particularly during his 8 year term as Governor.
He said the Governor has consistently relied on God and remained humble, compassionate and fair in running the affairs of the State.
While praying God to grant him many more years of good health, divine protection and God’s grace, the Chaplain said Lalong will continue to soar higher because of his total dependence on God and ability to carry people along.
Other speakers who include the Commissioner for Finance Dr. Mrs Regina Soemlat, Permanent Secretary Government House Administration Mrs. Mary Afan mni, Special Adviser on Job creation Hon. Samuel Kwampkur among others all eulogised the Governor and commended him for being a man of integrity and love which has seen him surmount many challenges of the State.
Wife of the Speaker House of Assembly Mrs. Yakson Sanda who proposed the toast also prayed God to continue to bless the Governor as he moves to higher responsibilities.
She said there is no doubt that he has done well to serve his people and give everyone a sense of belonging.
While supervising the cutting of the cake, the Permanent Secretary Government House Administration Mrs. Mary Afan explained that the cake was fashioned to depict the newly constructed British-American Flyover and Dualisation to Lamingo Junction Roundabout as a way of expressing appreciation to him for doing a lot of projects in the State.
Responding, Governor Lalong thanked God for his love and mercies saying the grace has been sufficient for him over the last 60 years.
He appreciated all who came to celebrate him as well as those who called or sent him messages of goodwill.
Lalong said the birthday is a special one for him because it reminds him of the support he has enjoyed from many people over the years as well as during his term as Governor which is about to end.
Meanwhile the Director General of the Industrial Training Fund Sir Joseph Ari has extended warm greetings to the Governor on the auspicious occasion of his 60th birthday.
The Director General in a message he personally signed said the humble beginnings of the Governor and his progress in life shows that God is with him.
He said the Governor has become a role model and source of motivation for the younger generation having become Speaker, Governor, Chairman Northern Governors Forum and Director General of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council.
Despite these positions, Sir Ari noted that Lalong has remained humble, hardworking, committed and determined to make a difference in the lives of people he has had dealings with.
He wished him more years of God’s grace and wisdom.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 5th May 2023.
The Holy Bible in the book of Ecclesiastes Chapter 7 verse 8 says “The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride” (New Living Translation). This verse does not only convey divine truth that has stood the test of time, but aptly captures the life trajectory of Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG, CON, Executive Governor of Plateau State and Chairman, Northern Governors Forum who turns 60 on 5th May 2023. Incidentally, his 60th birthday is coming as he prepares to handover to the next Governor of Plateau State at the end of his 8 year tenure.
For the man Simon Bako Lalong, fate, fortune and the grace of God are visible all over him having come from an obscure background from his little-known village of Ajikamai, Nyak, in Shendam Local Government of Plateau State. His story is one of grass to grace built on virtues of humility, love, service, tolerance, broad-mindedness and teamwork which have guided him all through life.
Trained as a lawyer, Lalong started his political journey through youth activism within the socio-cultural organisation of the Gamai people, Gamai Youth Movement as well as the Plateau Youth Council which threw some spotlight on him that later blossom and took him to limelight which he enjoys today.
Right from his childhood, Lalong had the innate feeling that he was called to serve and needed to develop himself particularly through education that will give him the capacity to stand among the high and low and effectively add value to humanity. His passion was to become a lawyer. This perhaps explains why despite so many opportunities for a career in football up to the national stage, he chose rather to pursue academics and fulfill his dream of wearing the wig and gown.
Although he had an offer to be a civil servant at the FCDA Abuja after his youth service, he declined and chose to practice his most cherished ambition of law. This brought him back to Jos where he began practice and later delved into politics.
From his election into the Plateau House of Assembly to represent Shendam Constituency in 1999, Lalong jettisoned his early childhood values that were engraved in his heart by his family and the Catholic Church. Those who know him testify of his loyalty, love, respect, humility and compassion which have grown over the years and opened doors for him across the length and breadth of Nigeria and the world at large.
Many recall his sojourn as the Speaker of the Plateau House of Assembly and his travails over refusal to superintend over the illegal impeachment of Governor Joshua Dariye. Because he would not subvert the constitution and tore the path of impunity, dictatorship and criminality, he spent 40 days and 40 nights in EFCC detention. His loyalty to the constitution, the people of Plateau State and Governor Dariye whom he felt should have fair hearing as provided by law was tested and he passed.
This singular act cost him so much and threw him in the cold as his seat was vacated even after he won the election for his recall which was induced by the powers that be in collaboration with Federal Might. However, his good heart and his principled stance to do the right thing coupled with his contentment, trust in God, and love for others was to restore him to limelight again in 2015 when the people of Plateau State remembered his good works as Speaker and chose him to become Governor.
On coming into office, he inherited a myriad of challenges which included insecurity, a despondent and demoralized civil service, uncompleted and abandoned projects, lack of inclusivity in governance, as well as a State that was in dire need of healing, reconciliation and forgiveness. He did not waste time in bringing the people of Plateau State together and addressing the challenges.
He immediately paid 5 months withheld wages under no-work-no-pay policy and cleared inherited salary arrears of 8 months from the past administration. The same story applied to pension arrears of about 10 months which he equally cleared. This earned him the nickname “Governor Alert” bestowed upon by the civil servants.
Rather than embark on ego trip of commencing new projects while the State littered with abandoned projects, Lalong chose to complete those inherited even though from a government of PDP. These include the Mararaban Jama’a road which was just about one lane done as well as the Secretariat Junction flyover; old-airport to Rayfield; Rayfield to Bukuru etc. Same applied to abandoned general hospitals such as Riyom, Langtang South, Kanke which he completed. Sadly, this was to be used against him by his opponents who despite enjoying these infrastructures claimed he never did a “single” project in 8 years – a propagandist lie that unfortunately sank into the gullible.
But Simon Lalong whose heart is like that of a child refused to be intimidated or harassed by frivolities and kept carrying out inherited and new projects. Today, the brand new British American Flyover and Dualisation to Lamingo Junction Roundabout has been completed and will be commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari soon. Same goes for the High Court Complex Headquarters, the Multi-door Courthouse and ADR Centre; NUJ Secretariat, Kalong-Angwan Dadi bridge (longest in Plateau); Shendam bye-pass and internal roads; of Longvel-Yelwa-Mato Junction-Taraba border road among; Legacy projects among others across the State.
When you talk about peace and security, Lalong gave it his best shot by not only dressing the surface, but going down to the root to tackle the causes. His style has been to remove fear and mutual suspicion from the hearts of citizens who had enjoyed peaceful coexistence for decades until crises merchants succeeded in dividing them along ethno-religious lines. While he strengthened the instrument of law enforcement to deal with criminals, he also came up with the Peace Building Agency which is the first of its kind in the country and backed by law. He ensured that crucial laws were enacted and signed such as the Anti-Land Grabbing and Anti-Kidnapping and Violence against persons.
Although there is no absolute security yet, citizens of Plateau State, Nigerians and members of the international community who earlier felt unsafe in Plateau have confessed that Lalong scored a goal in security and peace with abundant evidence to show. Nightlife is back to Jos while “no-go-areas” have drastically faded. Public and privates institutions across Nigeria have once more made Plateau State their conference and events capital as they jostle to host one national conference or the other. Hotel and hospitality businesses are booming while many investors who earlier left Plateau have returned. Even property owners have enjoyed a boom under Lalong as Plateau is once more the true Home of Peace and Tourism.
The footprints of Governor Lalong on the Plateau are very visible across all sectors and all Local Governments of the State. Whether it is the education sectors where he took over a moribund Plateau State University Bokkos and turned it into a 7-Faculty institution with 7 convocations in its kitty and a PG School; or the revamping of the Plateau Specialists Hospital with the acquisition of Ultra-modern medical equipment such as Superstar MRI Machine, 64 slices CT Scanner, 4D-Ultrasound Scanner and Digital X-Ray Machine among others; or the deepening of systems for transparency, accountability and good governance in the State which has earned the State national and international recognition, the man Lalong is leaving large footprints in the political landscape of Plateau, albeit quietly as the silent achiever he is.
While some could have disagreed with him over some of his policies and actions, Lalong has never claimed to be a saint or infallible. Indeed those who know him testify that he is one of the meekest persons on the face of the earth who is not afraid to admit any shortcoming just as he can stick to his convictions even when everyone disagrees with him.
His 60th birthday which comes just weeks before he bows out as Governor makes it a day to pause and thank God for sending someone with his temperament, capacity, intellect, humility, courage and love to the people of Plateau and Nigeria at times such as this. Having done his best to serve and with the best intentions, he is eager to go and have some deserved rest and also spend some quality time with his family.
But whether this will be a reality for him is in doubt because having produced the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the DG of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, many expect that he will again play a prominent role in actualizing the Renewed Hope Mandate of Tinubu/Shettima. Also, Lalong who was the leader of the Northern Governors who insisted that power should go back to the south in the interest of fairness and justice remains a strong figure in the ruling APC.
If history is anything to go by, Lalong who is not known to lobby for positions will once again have his past records speaking for him just as they did when he was chosen by his colleagues to serve as the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum, a position he has used to further demonstrate his capacity on the national stage and also ensure that Plateau remains in national relevance rather than obscurity.
The prayer for this man of peace and love is that God will continue to order his steps and give him more opportunities and make his paths shine brighter to serve humanity which has been his ambition from childhood. As this chapter of his life closes, there is no doubt that God is opening a new phase for him to once again demonstrate that love is the greatest according to Matthew 22: 37-40 which happens to be one of his most favourite scriptures in the Holy Bible.
Happy 60th birthday Your Excellency!
Makut Simon Macham, PhD, mnipr, is the Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
*Mutfwang Retakes Plateau From APC For PDP* The much talked about 2023 general elections have finally come and various officials of government have been elected into the various offices provided for in the constitution of our nation. In Plateau State, Barr Caleb Mannaseh Mutfwang of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has been elected as the Governor to take over from the outgoing governor Simon Bako Lalong of the All Progressives Congress, APC. It is reality that has happened and it will be more realistic on 29th may,2023 when the new Governor is sworn in as the new state chief executive of the state. It is not a speculation neither is it a dream,but a fact that must be acknowledged. That is the beauty of democracy which we have chosen to practice. God gives power to whoever He choses to give.So therefore, we have to pray for the new administration to succeed. We have had a number of successive regimes on the Plateau since the state was created ranging from the late JD Gomwalk, Dan Suleiman, Chief Solomon Daushep Lar the emancipator, etc (all of blessed memories) to Sir Fidelis Nanmiap Tapgun, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye, Senator Jonah David Jang, Rt. Hon Simon Bako Lalong and now to the incoming Barr Mutfwang. Under these administrations, Plateau State witnessed both high and low points. We give God thanks that democracy is growing and waxing stronger regardless of its slow speed and other factors. Transition committees on both sides and inaugurated. This is for a smooth and orderly transfer of power from Lalong to Mutfwang. There will be handing and taking over of not just political power but also of administrative, fiscal and policy instruments and structures of governance. A lot of things will surely happen on both sides. But it is very important for both sides to know what they are handing and taking over. What is Lalong handing over to Mutfwang and what is Mutfwang taking over from Lalong? It will be intereting to know and witness what Lalong is handing over so Plateau can equally know what Mutfwang will be handing over after his tenure. This is nothing but the basic work of democracy as demanded by principles of good governance. What is expected of the transition committees on both sides is not the traditional approach to issues just to fulfil all righteousness, but to do a thorough work that would trace how far the state has fared and the challenges being left behind for critical attention and focus. The committees must work hard to sectorally assess, analyse and identify key issues of progress and otherwise and profer solutions that will help the new government fill in the gaps. Plateau belongs to all of us and is bigger than us all. It is not about party but our collective progress. All of us suffers when a government fails and all of us smile when a government succeeds regardless of the party in power. A wholistic assessment and review of the 8 year administration of Lalong is very important. This is not to create an impression of probe but of the necessity of accountability to the people. Lalong was duely voted to perform some certain responsibilities and it is only proper that his outgoing government gives proper account of this stewardship, nothing more nothing less. Whoever goes into the democratic ring knows very well that no matter how long he or she stays, there is a terminal dateline. Even nations that don’t have time limits for their leaders, end up anyway anyhow. We continue to hear bogus claims and counter claims about the debt profile of the state depending which side one is talking from. But the committee can easily get across to the debt management office, DMO in Abuja for confirmation. We keep hearing many funny stories about contracts, thousands the of last minute employments to create problems for the incoming government, joint State and local government accounts and what is being released to our LGA chairmen monthly as against what the LGAs are entitled to. This must be unearthed for Plateau people to know. What about the bailout and COVID-19 funds that accrued to the state some years ago? How were they spent? What of other domestic debts gotten from banks? Were they judiciously applied? What are the terms of all the monies borrowed and their repayment plans? Was the government just collecting loans without purpose, focus and plans of repayment? What of other refundable monies paid to the state? What about other charitable and compassionate interventions from the federal government and other donor agencies? What about the internally generated revenues of the state? All these and more are what should form the basic focus of the transition committees ahead of the handing and taking over. This is democracy and government belongs to the people. There is always time to get into office and there is time to give account of all that one does in office. Politics must be separated from governance. Lalong has done his quota and about to vacate the scene for good. To me, he has not only demonstrated incapacity and political laziness, acute unintelligence in governance but unwillingness to deliver even where the opportunities are there. He is the worst governor to have ruled Plateau. He loves raw power but not ready to translate it to any meaningful impact. He always wants to be a leader where two or three are gathered, and always want to show off, but he lacks the capacity , ability and intelligent quotient to make a leadership difference.. He has demonstrated social primitivism and local brigandage in politics. There is nothing to learn from the type of politics Lalong has played. He has refused to connect to the national grid but chose to remain a local champion. I pray and believe that Mutfwang will be different and will not go the way of this accidental governor. I have great hope that the incoming governor will be different.This is not because he is my party man, but because from his antecedents, one can deduce a lot. The Bible says,” out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh”. What is Mutfwang saying and what has Lalong said in the last 8 years? While Mutfwang has said a lot to the admiration of the people, Lalong has said nothing in 8 years. When a man says nothing it means there is nothing in his heart and when there is nothing in one’s heart, it means no meditation takes place. Meditation is the place of self assessment ,deep thinking, reflections, etc which is part of the central human faculty of rational thinking. Obviously one cannot compare Lalong with an urbaned, metropolitan, cosmopolitan, exposed, sound, well educated and strategic thinking Caleb Mutfwang. Even though both are lawyers, we have never seen or heard anything legal about Lally boy. What he specializes is the intentional violation and breaching of laws which a lawyer should not. Out of office, he should reflect on all the many impunities he has committed against the laws of the land just to protect his incapacity. A serial violator of the law is obviously one who has no capacity to act in the way of the law and the only option is to be a bull in a China shop.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says he has fulfilled his pact with workers in the State and is leaving behind a good legacy welfare of improved welfare and a professionalised workforce.
Lalong was speaking at the Workers Day Celebration held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos with the theme “Workers’ Rights and Socioeconomic Justice”.
Being his last appearance for May Day as Governor of Plateau State, Lalong said the event presents him another opportunity to not only bid them farewell but also reflect on the great relationship he has shared with the workers in the past 8 years.
“I want to specially thank you my dear comrades for standing up to be counted in the task of rescuing Plateau from clutches of underdevelopment and despondency. Looking back at where we took over in 2015, it is clear that a lot of difference has been made not only in the civil service, but the entire sectors of the economy. You will recall that on coming into office, I assured you that the era of salary arrears will be a thing of the past. We immediately paid 5 months withheld wages under no-work-no-pay policy and cleared inherited salary arrears of 8 months from the past administration. The same story applied to pension arrears of over 10 months which we equally cleared” he said.
He said little wonder, the comrades of Plateau State gave him the title of “Governor Alert” which was affirmed and endorsed by the NLC under the leadership of immediate past President Comrade Ayuba Wabba.
Lalong recalled that his administration was among the first in the country to begin the implementation of the thirty thousand naira minimum wage and consequential adjustments.
He said “This Administration in collaboration with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria also provided home renovation loan to over 2,500 civil servants in the approximate sum of three million naira each across Ministries, Departments and Agencies to ease housing challenges they face.This is in addition to the assistance by Government to the Nigeria Labour Congress in the purchase of the land for the NLC Housing Project in Jebbu Miango, which I understand some blocks have been completed and will be commissioned before I leave office”.
According to the Governor, his administration was and still remains among the first and few in the country to grant financial autonomy to the Local Governments, the Judiciary, as well as Legislature.
He said these achievements and more would not have been possible without the remarkable cooperation of the Organised Labour and the synergy that has continued to grow between the various Unions and Government.
“We are highly appreciative of our workers and shall continue to ensure a harmonious government-labour relationship despite the attempt by some politicians and vested interests to come between us and use the labour to antagonise the Government with a view to discrediting it” he said.
Lalong said as he prepares to hand over to the incoming administration, he prays that they will give them the kind of support and cooperation he was given.
NLC Chairman Plateau State Comrade Eugene Manji and his TUC counterpart Comrade Kenneth Shammah said the workers in Plateau are highly appreciative of the love and care shown to them by Governor Simon Lalong in the past 8 years.
They said the Governor apart from clearing all the inherited backlogs of salaries, has remained consistent in ensuring that workers are paid depsite the economic challenges.
However, they enumerated many issues including pending promotions, the implementation of harmonised retirement age for teachers among others which need to be addressed.
Head of Service Plateau State Engr. Sunday Hyat thanked the workers for remaining steadfast and supporting the Government to carry out its mandate.
He said Governor Lalong stands out for his compassion and love for workers by giving approvals for despite several economic challenges.
Guest Speaker Prof. Dung Pam Sha bemoaned the disparity between the workers and elites saying there injustice in earnings in the country which must be addressed without further delay.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 1st May 2023.
