By Freelance Reporters, Jos

The Plateau State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to foster a strategic, long-term collaboration focused on scaling electrification strategies for the development and operation of sustainable power solutions across the state.

The ambitious initiative is aimed at providing decentralized solar power solutions to unserved and underserved rural communities and ensuring reliable and sustainable energy access across Plateau State.

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang signed on behalf of the Plateau State Government, while the Managing Director of REA, Abba Aliyu, represented his agency. This took place after a roundtable event with the Plateau State Government on Rural Electrification on National Electrification and Strategy implementation Plan (NESIP), held at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
Both parties pledged to work in synergy to address the energy needs of rural communities.

Speaking at the roundtable event, Abba Aliyu commended Governor Mutfwang’s visionary leadership and dedication to revitalizing the energy sector as a driver of economic growth in the state. He stated that following initial discussions with the Governor, a roundtable discussion was quickly approved to chart the way forward for electrifying rural communities.

Aliyu expressed confidence in Plateau State’s potential to attract renewable energy investments and disclosed that a company had already expressed interest in investing $150 million in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, with Plateau poised to benefit.

He noted that the state currently has low access to electricity despite its vast agricultural potential and pledged REA’s commitment to collaborating with Governor Mutfwang to overcome these challenges.

On his part, Governor Mutfwang underscored Plateau state’s immense potential in renewable energy and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing the capacity of NESCO, where the state government holds a significant stake.

He assured prospective investors of a conducive business environment and pledged to address bureaucratic bottlenecks and security concerns to facilitate smooth operations.

The Governor also emphasized his administration’s readiness to provide necessary approvals, including land allocation, community engagement, and other incentives, while leveraging technology to enhance security across the state.

He declared that his administration’s two-year ambition is to position Plateau as Nigeria’s industrial hub for renewable energy.  He also urged REA to hold subsequent roundtable discussions in Jos, the state capital.

The Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy, Hon. Bashir Datti Lawandi, highlighted Governor Mutfwang’s strong commitment to electrifying last-mile communities. He stated that access to reliable and affordable electricity is not just an infrastructure challenge but a fundamental driver of economic growth, improved quality of life, and social equity.

Engr. Ponzing Gamde, Managing Director of the Plateau State Energy Corporation, presented a paper on Renewable Energy Opportunities in Plateau State. He affirmed the state’s readiness to welcome investors interested in lighting up rural communities.

The event  was attended by Theophilus Nweke, Managing Director of Cloud Energy; Habiba Ali, CEO/Founder of SOSAI Renewable Energies; and Monica Liang, Project Lead of Lemi Renewable Energy Limited who all expressed strong interest in investing in Plateau State to boost its economy through renewable energy solutions.

Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
November 27, 2024.

By Prince Sekat, Jos

Plateau State University has committed to providing hostel accommodations for all students. The university aims to address the housing needs of its approximately 10,000 students and safety concerns around campus.

During a ceremony for the handover of a 192-capacity female hostel donated by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) on November 25, Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Shedrack Best acknowledged the importance of hostel accommodations in academic progress.

“Hostel accommodation is key to student life, student performance and education delivery in every system,” Prof. Best said.

The fully furnished 24-room one-story building was executed under the 2022/2023 Merged TETFUND intervention projects. It commenced on July 11, 2023 and was  completed on November 25, 2024, after unexpected delays due to inflation and flooding.

The project comprises 48 hostel rooms equipped with two double bunkers each for 192 students, one reading room, two staff offices, one entrance hall, and visitors’ toilet.

“This building does not solve all the accommodation needs of the university but it represents our commitment in our drive to meet this need and ultimately accommodate all of our students on campus,” Prof. Best said.

Following its completion, the university took over the facility, committing to its security, cleaning, and insurance. The contractors are tasked with managing any defects for six months.

Representative of three contractors who handled the project, Mr. Obinna Ude expressed gratitude for the opportunity to partner with the university for its infrastructural development.

A student spokeswoman, Queen John Adams, also appreciated TETFund and the university for prioritizing their housing needs.

Masara Kim
Acting Public Relations Officer

By Prince Sekat, Jos

The Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed, has reiterated the party’s commitment to unity and addressing the pressing challenges facing both the party and the nation. Speaking to the press at Government House Rayfield, Jos, after a strategic meeting of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Mohammed outlined key resolutions and observations made by the forum.

Senator Mohammed acknowledged concerns raised by Nigerians, PDP elders, and founding members regarding divisions within the party. He reassured that the forum remains resolute in its efforts to ensure unity and cohesion within the PDP, emphasizing the party’s role as the trusted platform for democratic governance in Nigeria.

The forum expressed its support for the postponement of the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting originally scheduled for November. This decision was taken out of empathy for Governor Enobasi, who recently lost his wife. The forum commiserated with Governor Enobasi and his family, praying for strength during this difficult time.

To address critical leadership and legal challenges confronting the party, the forum urged the National Working Committee (NWC) to convene the NEC meeting by the first week of February 2025, following extensive consultations with stakeholders. The period leading up to February will be used to address existential issues affecting the party, with a timeline of activities proposed to ensure stability.

The forum criticized the economic policies of the APC-led Federal Government, noting the growing hardship Nigerians face due to oppressive economic decisions. It called on the President to urgently review macroeconomic and fiscal policies to improve the welfare and well-being of citizens.

On electoral integrity, the forum raised concerns over alleged manipulation of results in the recent Edo Governorship Election, where it claimed the APC candidate was favored despite the PDP candidate, Mr. Asura Godolo, winning the majority of lawful votes. It called on the judiciary to safeguard democracy and urged the National Assembly to amend electoral laws to prevent institutional sabotage of the people’s will.

The forum praised PDP members in the National Assembly for their diligence in promoting fairness and equity in legislative processes. It also commiserated with: The government and people of Plateau State over the recent Katako Market fire incident, which destroyed properties worth millions of naira; and also the government and people of Jigawa State following a tanker explosion that claimed several lives and left many injured.

The forum expressed gratitude to the Plateau State Government and the people of Jos for hosting the meeting. Senator Mohammed commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his administration’s transformative strides in social services, tourism, and transportation. The forum encouraged Nigerians to look forward to the replication of these successes nationwide under PDP leadership.

“The forum is optimistic that the PDP will reclaim its rightful position in Nigeria by 2027, by the grace of God,” Senator Mohammed concluded.

The meeting was chaired by Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Bauchi State) and hosted by Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau State). Other attendees included:
H.E. Dr. Agbu Kefas (Taraba State)
H.E. Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa State)
H.E. Seyi Makinde (Oyo State)
H.E. Dr. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara State)
Deputy Governors Monday Onyeme (Delta State) and Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai (Enugu State).

The meeting was attended by several National Assembly members, and party stakeholders from across the country, marking a significant step toward strengthening the party’s position and addressing national challenges.

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

Finnish- Nigerian separatist agitator and self acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa and four other individuals have been arrested in Finland over terror-related activities

A local report in Finland said that Ekpa was remanded in custody by the district court of Päijät-Häme on suspicion of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.

The Central Criminal Police in Finland on Thursday said it arrested five persons on suspicion of terrorist crimes.

The police said the main suspect was arrested “on suspicion of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent”, while four others were arrested “for financing a terrorist crime”.

The statement reads, “The detention demands are related to the preliminary investigation, in which a Finnish citizen of Nigerian background, born in the 1980s, is suspected of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent.

“The police suspect that the man has promoted his efforts from Finland by means that have led to violence against civilians and authorities as well as other crimes in the region of South-Eastern Nigeria.”

“Four other persons are suspected of financing the aforementioned activity. All five suspects of the crime have been arrested during the beginning of the week.

International cooperation has been carried out during the preliminary investigation,” the statement added.

Matthew Tegha Elected Chairman of Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

Matthew Tegha has been elected as the new Chairman of the Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA). He will lead the association for a three-year term, alongside a team of newly elected executives.

Tegha, the immediate past deputy chairman of the association, succeeds Friday Bako, the outgoing chairman. The elections were held during PLABOMA’s Annual General Congress at the association’s secretariat in Jos on Wednesday.

Other elected executives include:

• Ibrahim Kalamu – Secretary
• Peter Akpa – Public Relations Officer
• Patience Tekura – Financial Secretary
• John Dauda – Auditor

Following the administration of the oath of office by Lohkat Binde, Esq., Matthew Tegha expressed gratitude to members for entrusting him with their mandate. He pledged to serve with dedication, transparency, and integrity.

In his acceptance speech, Tegha emphasized the transformative role of blogging and online media in society.
“Blogging and online media have become powerful tools in shaping society, bridging communication gaps, and driving positive change. As bloggers and digital media practitioners, we have the responsibility not just to inform but also to inspire and empower our communities,” he stated.

Tegha outlined his vision for a progressive, inclusive association that promotes professionalism, collaboration, and innovation. He urged members to actively participate in association activities, contribute ideas, and uphold ethical standards to build a lasting legacy.

Outgoing Chairman Friday Bako congratulated the new executives, expressing confidence in their ability to lead the association to greater heights. Reflecting on his tenure as the pioneer chairman, Bako acknowledged the challenges and milestones achieved during his three years in office. He extended his support to the incoming team and urged them to manage the association’s resources prudently.

Commending the outgoing executives, Polycarp Auta, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, highlighted the importance of leadership and ethics in digital media. He encouraged the new executives to prioritize diligence, verify stories, and report in ways that promote unity and peace.

Auta also affirmed the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel’s continued support for PLABOMA in advancing its mission. Similarly, Bolaji Pedro of Jay FM Jos called on the association to prioritize the welfare and professional training of its members, describing the relationship between PLABOMA and the media as a partnership for progress.

With a strong vision and dedicated leadership, the new PLABOMA executives aim to elevate the association’s role as a credible voice for peace, professionalism, and societal development.

By Prince Sekat, Jos

Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Bako Lalong sends warm felicitations to his beloved wife Mrs. Regina Lalong on the auspicious occasion of her birthday.

Lalong describes his wife as a jewel of inestimable value and trustworthy partner who has remained a source of support, inspiration and comfort to him and the family over the years.

He describes the day as a wonderful gift for the family as they celebrate a mother and pillar of love and service.

Lalong said he remains proud of her achievements particularly in the area of philanthropy and humanitarian interventions where she has continued to touch the lives of many vulnerable persons.

He also pays special tribute to her for dedication to the well being of the family and for the role she has played in encouraging him to serve the people through the many offices he has occupied.

While wishing her many more years of good health, God’s blessings and happiness, the Senator urges her to continue to avail herself the opportunity to serve God and humanity with greater zeal than she has done in the years past.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Special Adviser (Media) to Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Plateau South Senatorial District.
15th November 2024.

Residents of Jos, Plateau State, experienced a brief period of panic early Tuesday morning after a suspicious hole was discovered beside the Old JUTH fence along Ahmadu Bello Way, sparking fears of a potential explosive threat. The Plateau State Police Command responded swiftly to the report, which was received at 8:20 a.m.

Upon notification, Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina ordered immediate action, dispatching the Area Commander Metro and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit—commonly known as the Anti-Bomb Squad—to the scene. The Divisional Police Officer of “C” Division also joined the team to assess and address the situation.

Police personnel quickly secured the area as EOD experts examined the shallow hole. After a thorough investigation, officials confirmed the area to be free of any explosives, reassuring the public that the site posed no threat to safety.

Commissioner Adesina, accompanied by other senior officers, visited the location to conduct an on-the-spot assessment. Commending the residents of Plateau State for their vigilance and cooperation, he encouraged the public to resume daily activities without fear, affirming that the area is safe and secure.

The Police Commissioner urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the following emergency numbers:

Police Control Room Emergency Contacts:
– 07059473022
– 08038907662
– 08075391844
– 0905387229

The Plateau State Police Command, under the leadership of DSP Alfred Alabo, assures residents of continued efforts to maintain public safety and order across the state.

By Prince Sekat, Jos

The Plateau State Government on Monday launched a program aimed at enhancing the marketing of agricultural produce and improving food security in the state.

The sensitisation, which began on November 11, 2024, in Shendam and Langtang, is set to run until November 14, 2024. The program is designed to educate and empower farmers across the federal constituencies of Plateau State, with an emphasis on expanding access to local and international markets for Plateau’s agricultural products.

Ezekiel Davou, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Commodity Marketing and Food Security, oversaw the program’s launch, emphasizing its importance in changing the agricultural sector.

According to Davou, the initiative will enable small holder farmers to better access post-harvest processes, finance, and broader markets, which are crucial for maximizing their produce’s potential. This, he noted, would create a more sustainable economic environment for both farmers and the state as a whole.

He added that it was inline with the program’s goals, the Plateau State Government established the Plateau Commodity Marketing Company Limited (PLACOM) with him as the coordinator.

According to Davou, the company’s operations will include providing access to finance, managing post-harvest logistics, and connecting farmers to larger markets, both locally and internationally.

“The Plateau state government under governor Caleb Mutfwang has established Special Purpose  Vehicle (SPV)- the Plateau Commodity Marketing Company Limited (PLACOM) which will spearhead the marketing of Plateau state’s produce for both local and international markets. This company will not only buy produce from farmers at harvest but also manage post- harvest processes, facilitate access to finance, and connect down farmer with broader markets. This is a transformative stage for the benefit of smallholder farmers and the state economy”; Davou said.

Samson Bugama, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, reaffirmed the importance of this initiative. Bugama echoed Davou’s statements, emphasising that the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers is central to the state’s economic development.

He praised PLACOM as a transformative step that would empower farmers with the tools needed to improve productivity and profitability.

The initiative is expected to have a significant impact on both the local economy and food security, with the potential to connect Plateau’s agricultural products to wider markets.

As the program progresses through various federal constituencies, stakeholders remain hopeful that it will foster stronger collaboration between the state government, farmers, and the private sector to unlock new opportunities for growth and development.

By Prince Sekat, Jos 

The Immunization Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services (IMPACT) project in Plateau State recently held a digitalization workshop aimed at transforming healthcare data reporting at primary healthcare facilities across the state. The workshop, which took place on Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Villa Grand Hotel Gold and Base Rayfield in Jos, marks a significant step toward modernizing health data systems in Nigeria.

The IMPACT project, supported by the World Bank, seeks to improve the delivery of immunization and malaria services in Nigeria, especially in underserved regions. Its focus includes four components: malaria control, immunization enhancement, knowledge for healthcare improvement, and emergency response measures. In Plateau State, the primary emphasis has been on advancing the immunization component to reduce maternal and child mortality by enhancing the training and resources available to healthcare workers.

The recent training provided laptops to healthcare centers across Plateau State’s 207 wards, allowing medical records to transition from paper to digital formats. Speaking at the event, IMPACT’s Plateau Project Manager, Nurse Kizito Ndak, explained the shift to digital data entry as a means of improving the efficiency and accessibility of health information.

“This training will simplify data reporting, reducing the time it takes to compile and access records across multiple departments,” said Ndak. “By digitizing health data, we aim to create a seamless flow of information from local health centers to national systems, making real-time data accessible through the District Health Information System (DHIS2).”

The DHIS2 platform allows data from Nigerian facilities to be shared nationally and globally. With digitalization, the IMPACT project envisions faster data reporting, enabling the government and health organizations to respond more effectively to trends and health needs.

The IMPACT project aligns with Nigeria’s Vision 2030 goal of reducing under-five mortality from 182 to 79 per 1,000 births in program areas. As part of this vision, the IMPACT project focuses on delivering quality immunization and malaria services, essential to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates.

With the support of Plateau State Governor Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, the project prioritizes community-level care to prevent residents from needing to travel long distances for basic health services. According to Ndak, this initiative is part of a broader effort to revitalize primary healthcare and ensure that community members have accessible, trusted medical support.

The digitalization workshop in Plateau is part of a larger nationwide training initiative, with similar sessions being conducted across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Benjamin Daniel Shankom emphasized that this digital training would enable health workers to report facility-level data directly into the DHIS2 system.

“This is a major leap for data reporting across the country,” Shankom noted. “Now, real-time data from individual health facilities can inform better decision-making and resource allocation. This is crucial for tracking healthcare utilization and reducing infant mortality.”

The IMPACT project aims to equip health facilities with the tools and knowledge necessary to improve data accuracy, which is vital for effective public health management and reporting. The broader vision includes ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for Nigerians of all ages, as outlined in the National Strategic Health Development Plan.

As the workshop concluded, Plateau State healthcare workers left equipped with new skills and digital tools to enhance health service delivery and data management.