GOVERNOR LALONG MOURNS AREN EGGON, HRH BALA ANGBAZO

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed sadness over the demise of the paramount ruler of the Eggon nation HRH Bala Angbazo who died at the age of 89.

Lalong in a statement said he is saddened by the death of the royal father who was a great ruler of not only the Eggon people, but a father to many across Nasarawa, Plateau States and beyond.

According to him, the Late tradional ruler who spent 41 years on the throne having been installed in 1981, did a lot to promote the good of his people and protect their rights within the then Plateau State and later Nasarawa State when it was created.

He said “HRH Bala Angbazo was a man of tremendous wisdom and courage who loved people and promoted peace, unity and oneness. He never discriminated against anyone nor promoted hatred or division against people based on ethnic, religious or political considerations. He was a man of peace who did a lot to create harmony among his subjects and across the nation”.

Lalong also said the late monarch will be remembered for his passion for education which saw him encouraging the establishment of schools and making frantic efforts to enroll children from all segments of society particularly those from remote areas.

He also worked hard to advance the economic prosperity of his people through agriculture and entrepreneurship by leading with good examples that were emulated by many.

While commiserating with the immediate family, the Eggon nation and the entire Government and people of Nasarawa State, Lalong said the late monarch will continue to be remembered for his legacies of patriotism, love and passion for tolerance, peace and progress.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
15th July 2022.

Zulum allots 259 houses, N110 million to Borno police

… IGP calls Governor’s support enormous

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Thursday in Maiduguri, announced government’s allocation of 259 houses and the release of N110m to the Nigerian Police Force in the state.

Zulum made the announcement during the commissioning of Borno’s branch of the Nigerian Police Force Microfinance Bank (NPFM Bank).

The Microfinance bank is designed to provide financial services to aid small and medium enterprises for police families, their affiliates and civilians in Borno State.

The Bank’s unveiling in Maiduguri was attended by the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba Alkali.

Before the unveiling, Zulum explained that the allocation of over 259 houses to the police was meant to compensate the state command for government’s use of some portions of land belonging to the police, for development of some infrastructures in the state capital.

On the N110 million he announced, the governor said that 50% of it, which amounts to N55m, was Borno’s contribution as share deposit aimed at enhancing the bank’s operations at the starting stage.

The rest amount of N55m, Zulum further explained, was to be used in supporting families of police personnel in two ways.

The first, Zulum said, was the use of N25 million to be shared to families of police personnel who died in active service.

He ordered that the money be deposited in an account dedicated to educational needs of children left behind by the fallen police personnel.

The balance of N30 million, the governor said, will be deposited into a credit services account for the purpose of supporting policewomen serving across Borno State.

Zulum commended IGP Alkali for unveiling Borno’s branch of the bank which he said, indicated the IGP’s prioritization of police welfare.

The governor alongside the IGP, the bank’s board members and some top police officers, unveiled the branch by a symbolic cutting of a tape.

… IGP calls Zulum’s support enormous

In his remark before the commissioning, Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba Alkali, described Governor Zulum’s support towards the Nigerian Police Force as enormous.

“Your Excellency, we want to thank you for the logistics the state command is getting to function effectively in crime prevention and control. I am aware that the only state that got six armoured personnel carriers and handed them over to the police is Borno State. We want to sincerely thank you for taking our trouble, for being kind to us, for being generous to us, for coming to our assistance in terms of providing welfare and working tools”, the IGP said.

The IGP was accompanied to the event by the Board Chairman of the microfinance bank, Azubuko Joel Udah, the bank’s Managing Director, Mr Akin Lawal and top police chiefs while Zulum went along with Secretary to Borno State Government, Usman Jidda Shuwa, some members of Borno State Executive Council, among other government officials.

By Prince Sekat, Jos

The essence of influence is the ability to propel people to take action and effect change you can’t lead if you can’t influence and genuine followers are only influenced by leaders of character which Dr Nentawe epitomizes.

We are yet to have a record in the recent history of a political leader that is loved by devotees of a different faith, ethnic, political party lines and or social strata. A political value he does not take for granted.

His choice of the campaign slogan Generation Next depicts the growing agitation by the millennials and Gen Z who form the chunk of the voting population that is enthusiastic about an improvement in their quality of life. This population of interest is part of the bulk of youths who Dr Nentawe has intentionally influenced over the years. Little wonder a lot of them are picking the idea and running with it to the streets with ease and love.

He is genuine about what he craves to do differently if elected as Governor in Plateau State come 2023 and has effectively communicated them to all and sundry. He has spoken extensively on bringing solutions and achievable results via his ACEES Agenda as captured via http://www.drnentawe.org

His influence is dwindling the fortunes of the opposition to provide political contestation and electoral competition thus they are aggressively capitalizing on mundane religious and ethnic considerations and character assassination to make their case in a contest that has provided a theatre where ideas and issue-based discussions will flourish.

Plateau is desirous of a Technocrat to blow out her socio-economic potential and Dr Nentawe has spoken and is engaging extensively from Plateau’s economic vantage point.

His choice of a younger, vibrant and charismatic running mate Hon. Pam Botmang resonates with hope and progress as he brings to the table energy, experience, exposure and the spirit of Plateau amongst other sterling qualities.

The rousing welcome accorded him at the homecoming liturgy by the enormous crowd that came in solidarity from the nooks and crannies of Plateau state and beyond, the prayers offered and the rhythm from the renditions, chants, drums, and flutes rolled out at his instance echoes sounds of the emerging victory towards a secured, united and a prosperous Plateau State.

#GenerationNext
#TheFutureIsNow

✍Golepji from Dyeple, Dungung

By Prince Sekat,Jos

Kanke stood still as thousands came out in mass to give APC gubernatorial candidate for Plateau State Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda a rousing welcome at Kanke Local Government Area, Plateau State.
Received by a motorcade convoy of hundreds vehicles and motorcycles at the border town between Pankshin and Mangu LGA, the Convoy drove through Pankshin town down to Kanke Local Government Secretariate amidst cheers and jubilation.
The Executive Chairman of Kanke Local Goverment Council and Plateau State ALGON Secretary Hon. Henry Jan Gotip the MAJIDADIN GUNDUMAN NEMEL welcomed the Plateau APC Gubernatorial aspirant Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda , his Deputy Hon. Pam Bot-mang , the flag- bearers wife and the Entire Generation Next Campaign Team at the Local Government Council Secretariat in Kwal, headquarters of Kanke Local Government Area.

While receiving the renowned erudite Professor of Engineering and Digital System at his office, the Council chairman admonished the effort of the flag-bearer for campaigning round the state during the primaries which accorded him the victory. “Dr. has done well to deserve this victory and his home calling is organized to honor him and to show the world that our Son is prepared and ready to take the mantle of leadership of our dear State. The Ngas man is known for delivering good governance and sound leadership as seen in the lives of Gen. Yakubu Gowon and JD Gomwalk of blessed memory”.

Speaking at the reception in honor of the gubernatorial aspirant, the state APC Chairman ably represented by the state secretary Hon. Fidelis Longban, Chairman of Bokkos, Hon. Joseph Goluwa who spoke on behalf of ALGON, Senator Philip Adudu spoke on behalf of Northern Zone, Hon. Bala Deputy Chairman of Kanam spoke on behalf of central zone,
Hon. Innocent Tirsel, Hon. Wallok Goma, representatives of physically challenged, women and youths all showered accolades and lauded the towering credentials of the APC flag bearer. They unanimously appealed to Plateau voters to look no further than Dr. Nentawe in 2023 and gift the state a leader that will Secure, Unite and Prosper its people.

While addressing the mammoth crowed at the event the standard bearer appreciated Plateau State for standing with the Him. He said the choice of his running mate Hon. Pam shows that Plateau youths have hope.

“We brought an intelligent, exposed, young and intelligent personality because we need international connections to bring more development to Plateau. We brought a package that the youths on the Plateau will not be disappointed. We brought your contemporary. You form 82% of voters but you only gets 2% of revenue from the state government. My administration will reverse this by allocating 10% of the internally generated revenue (IGR) to assist our youths, the vulnerable, women and the less privileged.” He said.

The APC standard bearer also had a closed door meeting with the Traditional council of Kanke Local Government Area, Where they Gave him their Fatherly Blessings and prayed for him.

Mostar, Sombi dancers and various dancing groups thrilled guest at the occasion

PLATEAU CIVIL SOCIETY COALITION PRAISES GOVERNOR LALONG FOR PEACE/OPEN GOVERNANCE

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Plateau State has praised Governor Simon Bako Lalong for his untiring commitment to restoring peace to the State and adopting transparency, accountability and open Governance approach in discharging his mandate to the people.

During a visit to the Governor at the Government House Rayfield Jos, Chairman of the CSOs in Plateau State Mr. Gad Peter Shamaki said they are delighted that Plateau State has continued to witness incremental peace and stability since Lalong came into office because of his determination to unite the people and address issues that ignite insecurity and crises.

He cited the creation of the Plateau State Peace Building Agency, the signing of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, and the adoption of the Open Government Partnership Initiative among others as some of the laudable achievements of the Governor that have turned around the fortunes of the State nationally and internationally.

Shamaki also said the Governor has carried along the CSOs in his administration by listening to their advises and also partnering in various programmes and projects of the State.

He assured the Governor of the commitment of the CSOs in Plateau State to engage, collaborate and support the Government as it continues to serve the people.

Also contributing, Prof. Para Mallam, Steve Aluko, and Jessica Venkat representing various CSOs, thanked the Governor for always listening to their advises and also implementing some of their recommendations.

They also raised concerns about politics where they urged him to use his office as Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum to advocate for politics of inclusion and proper representation of minority groups in the North Central and other parts of the country.

In his response, Governor Lalong thanked the CSOs for their cooperation and collaboration in the course of his service to the people of Plateau State.

Lalong said he has benefitted a lot from the honest criticisms, encouragement and genuine efforts of the civil society who have also played their part in carrying out programmes and projects that directly affect the lives of the people.

He attributed the passage of some of the laws such as VAAP, Child Rights Act, Disability Rights Act among others to the persistence and technical support of the CSOs who are passionate about the improvement of the lives of the people.

He assured them that his Government will continue to do its best in delivering on its promises to the electorate as well as ensuring that Plateau State continues to be the home of peace and tourism.

On the concerns raised about political representation and inclusivity, he said he will continue to canvass for politics of inclusion which he used in Plateau State give people sense of belonging and garner greater participation.

He advised the CSOs to encourage all eligible citizens to go out and obtain their PVCs which will give them the opportunity to ventilate their grievances in the ballot box and ensure that those who are elected will serve their interests.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
14th July 2022.

Gov Lalong has been fair to Plateau women-LG Deputy Chairman

By Golok Nanmwa,Jos

Deputy Chairman, Quan Pan local government council of Plateau, Hon Helen Henniet Wapmuk on Wednesday said Governor Simon Lalong and the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration in the State has been fair to women in terms of appointments and elective positions in the state.

Wapmut while speaking to Journalists in Jos, the Plateau State Capital added that women have never had it so good in the state until now, citing some key positions occupied by women at state and federal levels.

According to her, the first female senator in the history of the state was elected on the platform of the APC.“The minister representing Plateau in the Federal Executive Council is a woman.“Since the inception of APC administration in Plateau, the Commissioner for Finance has been a woman and many other key ministries.“As I speak with you, we have four female deputy chairmen of local government councils,” she said.

She said the party has also given women the opportunity to compete politically with their male counterparts.

Wapmuk added that the party made wonderful choice in picking Dr Nentawe Yilwatda, an educationist and a women friendly personality, as its governorship candidate.

She believed that Yilwatda would give women more opportunities, if elected.“I am urging Plateau women to support Dr Yilwatda because he has good plans for women.“I have gone through his agenda and I can authoritatively tell you that women and youths can get more than 50 per cent of appointments in his administration,” she added.

On their performance as Qaun Pan local council officials, Wapmut said that the exemplary leadership of the Chairman, Hon. Ernest Da’a, facilitated improvement in the security situation of the area.

Wapmut noted that a lot was achieved in other areas, including series of free medical outreaches for the people.

GOVERNOR LALONG OPTIMISTIC OF END TO VIOLENCE IN BASSA AS IRIGWE AND FULANI SIGN COMMITMENT TO PEACE

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed optimism of a lasting peace and an end to recurring violence in Bassa Local Government where attacks have led to loss of lives and destruction of properties, farmslands and Livestock.

Governor Lalong who witnessed the signing of the expression of commitment to peace between the Irigwe and Fulani communities in Bassa Local Government Area said he was happy that there is a genuine and collective effort to address the spade of violence that has grossly affected people of the area and the State in general.

He said “Today’s gathering which is at the instance of the leadership of the Irigwe and Fulani is for these two communities to tell the whole world that they had tested the bitter pills that violent conflict serves but now willing, ready and able to chart a new course for themselves by first forgiving the past in order to reconcile the future”.

He said upon coming into office in 2015, his administration inherited crisis but was determined to confront the challenges head-on, which enables it to immediate develope a policy framework in a way that moves away from the reactive approach to being proactive.
“The nearly two-decade experience of violent conflict between Irigwe and Fulani of Irigwe Chiefdom has given my administration sleepless nights. Yet, we never for once relented in our effort and desire to expand the frontiers of Peace and security in those communities in particular and, the entire Bassa Local Government Area in general. My personal involvement in the mediation of this conflict was hinged on the ongoing interventions of both the Plateau State Peace building Agency and the State Inter-Religious Council who have worked closely with other stakeholders, including external actors to bring peace and stability in communities ravaged by internecine conflict” he said.
While commending the Brra Ngwe for his personal commitment to the pursuit of peace as well as other stakeholders including the Fulani representatives, the Governor urged the parties to take full ownership of this Document. “It is your document and you must ensure that you enlighten and sensitize your respective communities on the importance of respecting all the articles contained there-in. Be assured that on its own part, Government will support and monitor your commitment towards the implementation of this Agreement”.
He warned that Government will not relent on its duty if maintaining law and order and ensuring that those who attempt to truncate the implementation of the peace agreement are dealt with according to the law.

In his remarks, the paramount ruler of Miango HRH Brra Nngwe, Rev. Ronku Aka (Rtd.) thanked the Governor for his foresight in setting up the Peace Building Agency and empowering it to work towards resolving conflicts and restoring peace and security among the Irigwe and Fulani in Bassa as well as other parts of the State.

He said the the people of Bassa want to put the ugly events of the past behind them abd live in peace and unity with one another to pursue their legitimate means of livelihood without molestation.

Chairman of the Bassa Internal Peace and Security Committee Mr. John Power and the Co-Chairman Alh. Ya’u Idris signed the peace agreement on behalf of the Irigwe and Fulani communities.

Those who also signed as witnesses include Chairman Bassa Local Government, Chairman Plateau Inter Religious Council Prof. Pandam Yamsat and his Co-Chairman represented by Emir of Kanam, President Irigwe Development Association, Chairman MACBAN, Kaduna Peace Commission, Commander Operation Safe Haven, Police Commissioner, PIDAN, Inter Faith Mediation Centre, United States Inistitue for Peace among others.

Secretary to the Government of the State Prof. Danladi Atu said the Governor has directed him and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to immediately put in place machinery for Gazetting and working out the policy framework for immediate implementation.
DG Plateau State Peace Building Agency Joseph Lengmang said the Goverment will continue to count on the support of the parties to implement the Peace Agreement to further deepen the Peace in the area by providing critical social infrastructures that would in turn, strengthen social cohesion among the people.

He said the Governor has also directed the Plateau State Peace Building Agency to work in conjunction with security agencies as well as local and international partners to support the safe return and resettlement of all victims of violent conflict in Miango and environs as well as the provision of pyscho-social support and additional trainings to youth groups and women.

Various speakers in their goodwill messages commended Governor Lalong for his determination to see the end of crises in Bassa by facilitating several dialogue sessions, capacity building trainings, consultations and Peace advocacy among the leadership of ethnic associations like the Irigwe Development Association (IDA); the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders’ Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), the All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (AFAN); the Gan Allah Fulani Association of Nigeria (GAFDAN) amongst so many others.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
13th July 2022.

The Troops of the Nigerian Army, Operation Hadin Kai have reportedly killed ten Boko Haram terrorists in an ambush between Magumeri to Gubio road in the North of Borno state.

It was gathered that the terrorists who came in their numbers on motorcycles mount a check point and abducted two gulf vehicles and the Perssengers on board in the axis of Titiya village on July 12.

An Intelligence Sources told Zagazola Makama, a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad that the
highly spirited troops who acted on distressed calls were right on hand to counter the move and inflicted humiliating defeat on the terrorists who abandoned their evil mission and took to their heels.

The sources said that the troops chased the retreating terrorist and killed ten of them while some of them managed to escape with bullets wounds.

The sources explained that all the Perssengers were rescued while the two stolen vehicles were handed back to the owners.

Zagazola understand that the Boko Haram, otherwise known as Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihād, had intensified in armed robbery activities along the roads to sustained its terror campaigns in the North East.

GOVERNOR LALONG DELIGHTED OVER CANDIDACY OF IBRAHIM JAMES PAM AS REGISTRAR, INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has expressed delight over the candidacy of Ibrahim James Pam who has been shortlisted for the post of the Registrar, International Criminal Court, Hague-Netherlands.

Governor Lalong while congratulating Ibrahim James Pam for being the only Nigerian shortlisted among the twelve candidates for the position, expressed optimism that he will be successful in the selection process going by the experience and knowledge he brings along.

Lalong said Pam who has worked for over two decades in the area of International Criminal Justice, investigations and prosecution of the Rome Statutes crimes, internal oversight, administrative and criminal investigations, fraud risk management and fraud prevention among others, will bring enermous value to the office when appointed.

Ibrahim Pam previously worked meritoriously with the International Criminal Court in the Hague; the African Development Bank; and is currently an Executive Director with the Green Climate Fund in South Korea.

Governor Lalong while assuring him of the support and prayers of the people and Government of Plateau State said his candidacy is not only a thing of pride for Plateau State and Nigeria, but of the entire African continent.
He wishes him well and urges him to continue to demonstrate the true Plateau spirit of resilience, honesty, diligence and excellence.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
12th July 2022.

PRESS RELEASE

9 July 2022

RE: UNSUBSTANTIATED ALLEGATIONS AGAINST THE ARMED FORCES OF NIGERIA BY MR FEMI FANI-KAYODE IN A VIRAL VIDEO IN CIRCULATION

The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a video produced by Mr Femi Fani-Kayode, wherein he made wild and unsubstantiated allegations against the Armed Forces of Nigeria, regarding the recent spate of terrorist attacks particularly, the attack of the prison in Kuje – Abuja on 5 July 2022.

Ordinarily the video and its maker would have been ignored, considering the antecedents of the person behind it as a known Rabble-Rouser. However, in the interest of members of the public who might be misled by the deliberate falsehood and the sensibilities of service personnel and their families who have been paying dearly to keep Nigerians safe, it has become urgent to respond to the video currently circulating in the social media.

Among other allegations, Mr Femi Fani-Kayode claimed that the Department of State Security (DSS) informed the military about the impending attack on Kuje Custodial Centre and even the previous attack on the Kaduna – Abuja rail service. He also claimed that soldiers were withdrawn shortly before the prison attack. In all these allegations, Mr Kayode is merely playing to the gallery. He is not in any position to know whether the DSS notified the military of any attack or not. It may not be impossible that such a claim is part of a calculated attempt to cause division and rivalry amongst all Government Agencies that have been working collaboratively in addressing issues of insecurity in the country.

The claim that soldiers were withdrawn from the Kuje Correctional Custodial Centre before the attack is laughable. It is sad that Mr Kayode is ignorant of whose responsibility it to guard prison.

Mr Femi Kayode further claimed that the military took no action on the recent Shiroro terrorists’ attack, which resulted in the unfortunate death of some soldiers, some policemen and members of the public. This is also an attempt to smear the military and create bad blood between service personnel and the military high command. A despicable statement that dishonours the sacrifices of the gallant officers and soldiers that paid the supreme price whilst responding in defence of the civilians and the mining community. What a shame! Mr Kayode is encouraged to pay more attention to the weekly briefs by Defence Media Operations. Defence Media Operations gives weekly briefs/updates on operations being conducted across the country; press releases on military operations are also made when the need arises.

Mr Fani-Kayode is also called to refresh himself on the constitutional roles of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. In all, subordination to civil authority, is key. It is pertinent to state that, the Nigerian Armed Forces has toiled to sustain and nurture our democracy, hence the same military cannot contemplate a coup de tat, as alluded to by Mr Kayode in his video. The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Lucky Irabor has always stressed the unalloyed loyalty of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the President, Commander-in-Chief and the Nigerian Constitution. Accordingly, as the 2023 General Elections approach, desperate persons must depart from their evil ways, for never again would they lure the military into their wicked machinations. If a confession must be made, Nigerians must know now: the military is always the worse victim of military rule.

Finally, in a miserable attempt to malign the leadership of the military, Mr Kayode gave the impression that, while junior military commanders and non-commissioned officers are working hard, senior commanders are doing nothing. This is sheer ignorance and nothing more. Mr Kayode is completely oblivious of the fact that in the military, orders, instructions and directives are issued from the hierarchy to the lower rungs of command. Therefore, junior commanders cannot be working hard while their superiors are idle.

This is indeed a difficult time for the Armed Forces of Nigeria and Nigerians as a whole. It is not time for attention-seeking individuals to cause needless distractions. Members of the public are therefore urged to ignore Mr Femi Fani-Kayode and continue to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly to law enforcement agencies.

JIMMY AKPOR
Major General
Director Defence Information