Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong is to swear in newly appointed Commissioners recently screened and confirmed by the Plateau State House of Assembly .
The event scheduled to hold at the Victoria Gowon Hall, New Government House Little Rayfield Jos will take place on Tuesday, 4th October 2022 by 10am.
All appointees and invited guests are to be seated before 10am.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 3rd October 2022.
GOVERNOR LALONG CELEBRATES PLATEAU APC CHAIRMAN HON. RUFUS BATURE @60; CHARGES HIM TO LEAD PARTY TO VICTORY IN 2023
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated Chairman of the APC in the State Hon. Rufus Bature as he marks 60 years, describing him as a man of integrity, competence and reliability.
Lalong who attended a thanksgiving service to mark the event at COCIN Church Kufen, Barkin Ladi LGA, said the celebrant is an epitome of humility who has demonstrated capacity to work with people from all backgrounds particularly at the grassroots level.
The Governor said Hon. Rufus Bature who was one time Member of the Plateau State House of Assembly and Secretary to the Government of Plateau State among others, has exhibited high sense of patriotism and resilience in serving Plateau State and Nigeria over the years.
He said 60 years in the life of a man calls for celebrations particularly for someone who rose from a humble background to work hard and by God’s grace rose to political prominence.
He commended him for serving his family, community, and humanity with all his gifts, talents, and resources as well as ensuring that many indigent people are assisted while many children go to school.
Lalong asked Rufus Bature to continue to be a loyal, committed and kind person he has been over the years particularly through their political journey spanning many decades.
He said “We suffered with Rufus during our persecution by the Obasanjo government over our stance against State of Emergency in Plateau State and our refusal to illegally impeach former Governor Joshua Dariye. Our seats were declared vacant and we were rendered very poor but we stood together despite the inability of the Governor to take care of our families as agreed. After our travails and in the course of our ordeal we lost some of our colleagues. We are grateful to God that he saw our suffering and decided to reward us with the positions we hold today when we decided to join the APC. Rufus is a reliable and trustworthy person and that is why I appointed him the Secretary to the Government and he later contested and was elected Chairman of the APC in Plateau State. I know he will deliver our party to victory not only in the State but in the Presidential elections”. He regretted that despite their sacrifices some politicians are spreading false and toxic narratives against the Government alleging that Plateau heritage is being mortgaged by the APC, a situation he described as very unfortunate.
In his Sermon, guest preacher Rev. Gyang Pam, Provost, Gindiri Theological Seminary reading from Luke 12:13-21 cautioned people against paying attention to worldly acquisition that are temporary to the detriment of eternity.
He said no matter what anyone accumulates, he cannot take anything after death, but will rather have to account for his or her deeds before God.
Rev. Pam said the celebrant has continously done his best to look after the interest of others in the society particularly the underprivileged. He urged him to continue in this line of service to his people and humanity in general.
The celebrant, Hon. Rufus Bature said he was very grateful to God for creating and sustaining him over the past 60 years and lifting him up from a humble background to a place of note in society.
He recalled his struggle in life and thanked God for the good and bad times which he said helped in building him up to be able to take up higher responsibilities in Plateau State and the nation.
Bature specifically thanked Governor Simon Bako Lalong for his unrelenting friendship and commitment to service which he said attracted him to join the progressive movement in 2015 leading to his appointment as the first Secretary to the Government of Plateau State from Beromland.
He said Governor Lalong has also brought projects to his Constituency including the Legacy Project (Special Hospital) which has been designated as the site for the proposed Federal Orthopedic Hospital for the North Central Zone among others.
There were goodwill messages from CAN Chairman Plateau State Rev. Fr. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman Barkin Ladi LGA, and Gwom Rwei Barkin Ladi, HRH Edward Gyang Bot who all appreciated Hon. Rufus Bature for his service to the community and the Church.
They advised the people to participate actively in the political process and shun all rhetoric that causes division and hate.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 2nd October 2022.
GOVERNOR LALONG REVIEWS INDEPENDENCE PARADE, CHARGES NIGERIANS TO STRENGTHEN DIVERSITY FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State says harnessing the benefits of Nigeria’s diversity is key to eliminating most of the challenges besetting national development.
Governor Lalong who spoke shortly after reviewing the independence parade held at the Rwang Pam Township stadium Jos said Nigeria has made significant progress during its 62 years of existence as a sovereign Nation.
He said despite the challenges the nation has passed through, its citizens have remained resilient and continue to have faith in the unity of the country. What he said remained important was for Nigerians to do more in appreciating the diversity of the country as well as harness it for growth.
“Nigeria is a great nation with abundant human and material resources comparable to very few countries in the world. These blessings have passed through different attempts to harvest them for the good of the citizens who are diverse in ethnic, religious, social and political orientations. Our diversity which in itself is a major resource has also put demands on managing our endowments to the point that many question whether it is a blessing or a curse. However, we should never forget that Nigeria’s diversity is in its greatest strength and not its weakness. Therefore, we should devote more time, energy and resources on things that unite us than our differences of origin which in most cases we have no control over. We should equally devote more energy towards ensuring that people are treated fairly, justly and with dignity that is guaranteed by our constitution. Plateau State under our watch presents this template of managing diversity”.
Lalong who said he was addressing the State on Independence Celebration as Governor for the last time, described the event as very nostalgic for him and one that reminds him about the journey so far.
He said “Many of you will recall that when we came on board, we were confronted with many challenges that threw our State into a near state despondency and hopelessness.
From the high level of insecurity and unrelenting attacks on our people, to the huge months of unpaid salaries, pensions and arrears as well as abandoned projects littered across the State, we knew that the task was a huge one. However, I am happy to say that despite the many setbacks we were confronted with such as global crash in oil prices, criminal attacks, Covid-19 among others, we have been largely successful in restoring Plateau State to its status as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
He said his Rescue Administration can proudly boast of being one of the few across the country to vigorously pursue the completion of abandoned and inherited projects started by previous administrations including Government of a different political party. Rather than allow the common patrimony of Plateau people to rot away under the guise of political ego, he vowed to complete many of the abandoned projects inherited for the benefit of the people.
“While handling the inherited and abandoned projects, we also initiated many new projects with most of them completed, commissioned and put into use while others are on the verge of completion. Our administration believes that this approach is the best way to sustain development and defend the Plateau Heritage. In the coming months, we shall be commissioning some of the completed projects and others soon to be completed. Some of them include the New High Court Headquarters Complex, General Hospital Mabudi, General Hospital Kanke, Kalong-Angwan Dadi Bridge (the longest bridge in Plateau State), the Shendam Internal Road Networks, and the Potato Value Chain Processing Centres in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu. Work will soon resume on the Legacy Projects located across the 17 Local Government Areas of the State. Our commitment is to ensure that we complete ongoing projects before the end of this administration”.
On security, the Governor appreciated all citizens for their support and collaboration towards the restoration of peace and security in Plateau State over the years saying although total success in eliminating criminal attacks have not been achieved, the State has substantially overcome the wanton destruction of lives and properties through ethno-religious crises and other senseless attacks on the people.
On the forthcoming general elections, he said “Let me therefore use this opportunity to call on all politicians to put the general interest above their personal or party interests before, during and after the elections. We should never do anything that will jeorpadise, the peace, security and unity of Plateau State and Nigeria just to win elections. Without peace and stability, there will be neither democracy nor room for any politician to canvass for votes or aspire to lead. We must act with utmost responsibility and caution because despite political differences, we are all Plateau citizens and shall continue to remain brothers and sisters. Similarly, I urge the youths to shun all forms of actions that are inimical to conduct of peaceful elections such as thuggery and violence. Nobody should deceive you into believing that you are relevant or you can be made rich through violence. Think about your future and reject those who hide their children but recruit the children of others to carry out political violence on their behalf. Our administration has demonstrated that it is committed to providing opportunities for youths through empowerment and job creation. That is why I challenge you to take advantage of empowerment programmes rather than participating in political violence”.
He reassured all stakeholders that the Government under his watch will ensure that that the rights of citizens and political parties and their candidates to freely sell their manifestos and canvass for votes as enshrined in the law are protected.
However, he warned that those who want to use politics to cause chaos and disharmony will be confronted by the security agencies that are empowered to maintain law and order. Similarly, those who also want to cause trouble through fake news, hate speech, and incitement should be ready to face the law.
Commissioner for Information and Communication Hon. Dan Manjang in a remark appreciated the Governor for successfully hosting the event and also ensuring that there is peace and harmony in the State.
The parade also featured match past by the students of various schools while winners were given prizes.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 1st October 2022.
NIGERIA @62: GOVERNOR LALONG SAYS A UNITED NIGERIA IS DESTINED FOR GREATNESS
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed optimism that Nigeria will achieve greatness despite its current challenges.
In a message to mark the 62nd Independence Anniversary of Nigeria, Lalong said a very prosperous Nigeria is possible if all citizens put aside their personal interests and work for the common good in a united manner.
He said “It is therefore important that we do not allow the challenges of the moment to stop us from highlighting and thanking God for the tremendous successes we have achieved over the years. In this regard, we pay special tribute to those who fought for our indigence, those who nurtured it and to all who are doing their best to sustain it. We should continue to do our best to ensure that the sacrifices of these men, women, youths, children and people of various backgrounds do not go in vain”.
Lalong said Nigeria is a great nation with abundant human and material resources comparable to only very few countries in the world and as such, there is the need to ensure that the resources of the nation are harvested and utilised efficiently for the good of all rather than for the benefit of a few.
He challenged those in power to always put the interest of the citizens first and shun any action that will dwindle hope, faith and patriotism among the followers, as it can lead to despondency and add to the problems militating against nation building.
While congratulating President Muhammadu Buhari and all Nigerians for commemorating another independence anniversary, Governor Lalong prayed that the forthcoming democratic transition will go smoothly and consolidate the nation’s achievements in civilian rule.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 1st October 2022.
GAGDI AIDES CONGRATULATE PRINCIPAL ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS MEMBER SECURITY COMMITTEE OF APC PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN COUNCIL
On behalf of the hundreds of loyal and dedicated subordinates of Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, member representing PKK and Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Navy, I warmly felicitate with our principal over his meritorious appointment as a member of the security committee of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
Your expertise in security and leadership of one of the armed forces committee of the House of Representatives must have informed your appointment into the committee. We are confident that your expertise will come handy in managing the security aspect of the APC Presidential Campaign.
While pledging our unflinching loyalty and support for you to excel in every assignment bestowed on you, we shall continue to put in our best in our various areas of responsibility in the affairs of PKK and every other engagements that pertains you. You can always count on our support and commitment to serve you and humanity diligently.
Congratulations and best wishes in the discharge of this added national assignment.
Signed: Pharm. Mizim Haruna Dagung, SLA to Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, Member representing PKK and Chairman House Committee on Navy.
The paramount ruler of Tal chiefdom, the Golong Tal, His Highness Nanleng Yusuf Gotus, in Pankshin local government area of Plateau State, has been kidnapped by gunmen.
Freelance Reporters gathered that the gunmen stormed the palace of the paramount ruler at about 1:00 am yesterday and took him away.
It was learnt that the kidnappers have contacted the palace, demanding N50 million in ransom.
Police spokesman Alfred Alabo confirmed the incident, saying the command had deployed security personnel to rescue the traditional ruler.
GOVERNOR LALONG CONDOLES DEPUTY SPEAKER IDRIS WASE OVER DEATH OF ELDER BROTHER, HRH ALH. ADAMU IDRIS, REKNA OF BASHAR CHIEFDOM.
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has commiserated with Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase and the entire people of Bashar Chiefdom in Wase Local Government over the demise of his elder brother and Rekna of Bashar, HRH Alhaji Adamu Idris, Second Class traditional ruler who died at the age of 98.
Lalong while condoling with the people of the Bashar Chiefdom and the Deputy Speaker, said the death of the Royal Father who has been on the throne of his forefathers for 59 years is a great loss to the entire State.
He said during his long reign, the late monarch played a great role in maintaining peace within his domain and also contributing to the progress of Wase Local Government, Plateau State and Nigeria in general.
The Governor said Alhaji Adamu Idris was a man full of passion and compassion for his people and always demonstrated a sense of justice, fairness, honesty and love for education during his reign by encouraging the establishment of schools as well as cooperating with government to attract development to his area.
He said although the exit of the Royal Father is painful, he will continue to be remembered for the good legacies he left behind and the wonderful memories of unity, love and selflessness he demonstrated on many issues.
While urging the people of Bashar, the Deputy Speaker and entire family to accept his death as the will of God, Lalong urged them to continue to pray for God to forgive his sins and grant him eternal rest.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 26th September 2022.
Events organizers in Jos on Sunday were visited by yet another disappointment as singer Terry-G failed to show-up to an event after he was fully paid to perform in the Plateau State capital.was reported that the artist Terry-G was fully paid the agreed amount by event organizers, Oil Money Entertainment for a show, ‘Terry G live in Jos’.
Terry then made a confirmation video to validate his coming with a promise to be live on JayFm on Saturday and later called in the morning to say he was on his way to the airport.
The organiser’s pickup team drove to the airport to welcome him but to their greatest disappointment, Terry-G was not on the plane; after which it was alleged that he stopped picking his calls and neither did he return them.
Recall that singers such as Olamide and Davido did similar act by giving assurances of their coming, but failed to show up on the day of the event in Jos Plateau State.
One of the Frontline promoters of the event, MC Malangwa posted on his Facebook page
“After the organisers paid him,he made this video,he even called them this morning that he was on his way to the airport to board , the organisers drove to Jos airport to wait for his arrival, lo and behold,Terry G was not on the plane,he stopped picking calls and didn’t send any massage”.
“This is not the first time this is happening in Jos, after the massive publicity, the expenditure? Haba !”
NIGERIAN AMBASSADOR TO RUSSIA LAUDS GAGDI FOUNDATION, PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR GAGDI’S POLITICAL MOVEMENT
The Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, Prof. Abdullahi Shehu Yibaikwal, has lauded the establishment of the Gagdi Foundation, noting that it will serve as a veritable tool for a sustained fight against poverty and the provision of better living condition for the downtrodden.
He therefore commended the founder, Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi for coming up with such a lofty idea, saying it will ameliorate the sufferings of the less privileged members of the society; beyond politics and religion.
Prof. Yibaikwal was at the corporate headquarters of the Foundation, along Yingi-Rayfield road in Jos, to felicitate with Gagdi for birthing a world class humanitarian organization that prioritizes uplifting humanity, irrespective of race or creed.
The diplomat disclosed that his first point of call on arriving Jos was to visit the corporate headquarters of Gagdi Foundation, to identify with the lofty ideals of the organization, where he pledged total support in whatever form, to help the it achieve its set objectives, as he was not disappointed by what he saw.
The Bogghom Prince declared total support for the reelection bid of Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi for a second term as the member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, and pledged to exhaust all his political influence to ensure that Gagdi emerges victorious in the forthcoming 2023 polls.
Prof. Abdullahi Shehu Yibaikwal maintained that Gagdi has surpassed all expectations of a performer in his first term in office, and the political exigencies of PKK has favoured his candidacy to clinch a return ticket to the National Assembly in 2023. He thereby called on all well meaning sons and daughters of PKK to support Gagdi, for a better representation of the constituency.
In his response, Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi appreciated the august visitor, and the accolades showered on him, maintaining that such words humbled him and rekindled his passion to achieve the best results in whatever he sets his mind on.
Gagdi said he always has innermost peace anytime he puts smile on the face of any individual through humanitarian act, and such had spurred him to establish the Gagdi Foundation; as a separate arm to render humanitarian services outside his legislative functions of providing constituency projects to his constituents.
He said Gagdi Foundation is a vehicle through which he will reach out to humanity irrespective of religion, political or ethnic affiliations.
He promised to use the experience garnered in his first tenure to attract greater democracy dividends to PKK, if reelected in 2023, adding that political power comes from God alone, and always expressed through the will of the electorate at the polls.
GOVERNOR LALONG FELICITATES WITH ARCHBISHOP BENJAMIN KWASHI @ 67
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has sent warm felicitations to Rev. Dr. Benjamin Argak Kwashi, Anglican Bishop of Jos on the occasion of his 67th birthday.
Governor Lalong in a goodwill message rejoices with the highly revered clergyman on the special occasion of his 67th birthday describing it as a moment to give glory to God for sustaining him over the years.
Lalong acknowledges the resilience, faith and passion of Archbishop Kwashi in propagating the gospel of Jesus Christ and sharing God’s love to people of diverse backgrounds including the less privileged and the downtrodden.
He thanked God for giving Archbishop Kwashi the heart to respond to the needs of others through philanthropic activities as well as mentoring the youth by constant engagement, counselling and other special activities.
The Governor also thanks Archbishop Kwashi for constantly praying for the government as well as offering words of wisdom which have helped in enabling the administration fulfil its mandate to the people.
He wishes him long life, good health, God’s protection and happiness in the years ahead.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 23rd September 2022.
Freelance Reporters 