PLATEAU EXCO APPROVES DRAFT BILL FOR DRUG/MEDICAL COMODITIES AGENCY; RECEIVES WORLD BANK AWARD FOR FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Worried by the challenges of access to quality drugs and medical commodities in the heathcare system in Plateau State, the State Executive Council at its meeting of Thursday 24th June 2022, approved a draft Bill for the creation of the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency to be sent to the House of Assembly for necessary legislative action.

Briefing newsmen after the Council Meeting presided over by Governor Simon Lalong at the Council Chambers of the New Government House Little Rayfield Jos, Commissioner for Works Pam Bot-Mang explained that the decision was taken following the presentation of the draft Bill to the council by the Ministry of Health.

He said the Government believes that the new Agency will resolve the issues of fake drugs, out-of-stoke syndrome in public and private hospitals and also guarantee access at the grassroots.

Commissioner for Health Dr. Nimkong Lar said the development will generally improve the health of the citizens and also ensure that drugs and other medical commodities are accessed at affordable prices while the challenge associated with tracing fake and adulterated products will be easy to handle.

He commended the Plateau State Governor for his passion towards ensuring that the health care system is improved and made to respond to the current needs of the people at all levels of society.

Lar also gave an update of the 2 cases of Monkey Pox recorded in the State where he explained that one of the patients has recovered and is discharged while the other one is improving tremendously.

He said surveillance and sensitization efforts have been stepped up to ensure that the cases do not spread further.

Meanwhile, Plateau State Government has received a World Bank Award for the Best State in Financial Management and Reporting in implementing the NEWMAP Project in the Country.

The Award which was give to the State at a National event, was presented to Governor Lalong during the Executive Council meeting.

The Governor congratulated the State and NEWMAP Team for making the people proud by carrying out quality projects within specifications and ensuring that all laid down procedures are observed in the process.

He said this achivement was in line with the determination of his Rescue Administration to maintain financial discipline, adhere to due process and also ensure frugal management of resources at all times.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
25th June 2022.

GOVERNOR LALONG INAUGURATES NEW NASCO PRODUCTION PLANT; PRAISES COMPANY FOR SUPPORTING THE STATE’S ECONOMY

Governor Simon Bako Lalong has inaugurated a new production plant for NASCO Foods Company in Jos with great appreciation to the company for its consistent contribution to the economic development of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.

Governor Lalong said NASCO is one of the few companies whose chronicles can be written alongside the history of Plateau State and Nigeria especially because it bears all the hallmarks of endurance, durability, immense potential, and a unique talent for survival.

He commended the Executive Chairman, Management and Staff of NASCO for sustaining the virtues of its founding father, the Late Dr. Ahmed Idris Nasreddin who laid a solid foundation 57 years ago, nurtured the company to growth and prosperity before his demise.

He noted that since it began its operations 57 years ago, millions of Nigerians from the post-independence generation to young Nigerians today have all been able to share almost identical experiences from having used the different product categories which NASCO has come to be known for.

Lalong said “before Government started to promote self-sufficiency in food production – a policy which encouraged Nigerians to produce what they eat, NASCO’s adoption of the policy of back-ward integration in sourcing maize as its chief input for the production of cornflakes had empowered thousands of farmers on the Plateau and across many locations in central Nigeria. This had directly impacted on the volume and quality of the maize that its suppliers were cultivating. Cumulatively, this process now integrates into the Buhari administration’s drive to develop the agriculture commodity supply chain, for which maize has been recognised as one of the most important commodities. The overall goal of this initiative, of course, is the creation of jobs and wealth for Nigerians”.

The Governor noted that this foremost company has not only deepened its presence in Jos, but has endured all the challenges that emerged at various times which led to the exodus of many investors from the State. He said without doubt, this innovation and strategic investment in “state-of-the-art technology” equipment and machinery, will further upgrade the standard of its cornflakes to match the most notable international brands in terms of superior quality.

He said he was a proud man to unveil this brand new production line within his tenure which is a fulfilment of one of the policy thrust of the Rescue Administration that talks about “Sustainable Economic Rebirth”.

Lalong said the State has also attracted more investors who have started businesses particularly within the Small and Medium Enterprises category. This has brought more jobs to Plateau citizens and also boosted the State’s IGR.

“While we commend NASCO for its patriotism and resilience in Plateau, I urge all citizens and indeed other business organisations to continue to be good Ambassadors of Plateau State. We should avoid carelessly de-marketing the State on account of one minor unpleasant incidence. When we go to the social media and elsewhere to spread exaggerated or fake news that creates fear and anxiety in the heart of prospective investors, it discourages them from coming to do business in the State. We are glad that NASCO resisted this temptation over the years and today, they are the leading manufacturing company not only in Plateau State but in the country” he said.

Executive Chairman of NASCO Dr. Attia Nasreddin while appreciating the Plateau State and Federal Governments said the company has received tremendous support and encouragement to overcome the challenges over the years leading to growth of the company.

He said the new plant which boasts of state-of-the-art technology will double it production capacity, enhance the working conditions for its staff and also improve environmental sustainability.

Nasreddin said the company will continue to fulfil its corporate social responsibility to Plateau State and also support the efforts of the Government in improving the lives of its citizens particularly farmers who have developed a special relationship with NASCO.

Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Idris Wase represented by Chief John Dafaan; Representatives of Bank of Industry, NAFDAC, MAN, and maize farmers in Plateau State all appreciated the giant strides if the company over the years and impacting lives positively.

Governor Lalong after inaugurating the new plant undertook a tour of the facility worth billions of naira and supported by the Bank of Industry.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the
Executive Governor, Plateau State.
23rd June 2022.

PLATEAU LEGISLATORS THROW THEIR WEIGHT BEHIND GOVERNOR LALONG VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATURE OF THE APC.

Members of the Plateau State House of Assembly have drummed support for the State Governor, Simon Lalong to be considered as the vice presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The support came through a motion on adjournment moved by House majority leader Naanlong Daniel urging the State Legislature to lead the quest for an all out campaign for the State Governor to be picked to deputize the APC presidential flag bearer, Bola Tinubu.

The members made this submission during Wednesday 22nd June 2022, Plenary, presided by the Speaker Rt Hon Yakubu Yackson Sanda.

Majority leader of the house and Member representing Mikang Constituency, Hon Naanlong Daniel in a motion said Governor Simon Lalong deserves the support to be picked out of the North Central zone as vice presidential candidate of APC giving his track record in the area of peace, unity and human development.

He noted that the wealth of experience of Governor Simon Bako Lalong and his leadership disposition speaks volumes to his credibility to be considered for the Vice Presidential Position.

Members in their separate contributions supported the motion in view of Governor Lalong’s unbiased disposition and his experience –networking with other parts of the country.

They described Governor Simon Bako Lalong as a best match to deputize the APC Presidential Flag bearer Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, saying his humble personality, loyalty and pragmatic leadership style is worthy of mention.

The Legislators noted that, Governor Simon Bako Lalong has played and is still playing a significant role as the Chairman of Northern Governor’s forum, as he was able to bring about Peace and Unity within the region.

The house resolved to work tirelessly and collectively towards the success of the Vice Presidential candidature of Governor Simon Bako Lalong.

They called on all APC leadership, stakeholders and the good people of Plateau within and outside the State to join hands to actualize the project.

Meanwhile, the House of Assembly has passed the Plateau State House of Assembly fund management amendment bill 2022.

Giving the bill an accelerated treatment by suspending order 13 rule 3 of the House rule, it went through first to third readings to permit for passage through a motion in the committee of the whole.

Members of the State Assembly said the amendment on the Assembly fund Management Law is apt, to conform with legislative best practices.

Also at plenary, the House adopted its fourth legislative calendar which runs until June 2023.

By Prince Sekat,Jos

ARMY TROOPS INTERCEPT EXPLOSIVES AMMUNITION IN CROSS RIVER

Troops of 13 Brigade operating under command of 82 Division, Nigerian Army on Tuesday 21 June 2022, intercepted a Toyota Camry car with registration number JAL 492 AA, ladened with assorted munition while enroute Utanga village towards Obudu Mountains in Cross River State.

Troops deployed at Forward Operating Base Amana attempted to stop the vehicle at their checkpoint but the driver evaded the checking and zoomed off. The drivers recalcitrance
compelled the troops to open fire on the tyres of the vehicle, thereby immobilizing it.

A thorough search conducted on the vehicle revealed it was conveying 72 Improvised Explosive Device chargers, 121 Dynamite Liquid, 200 rounds of 7.62 mm (NATO) and 82 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition. Other items recovered in the intercepted vehicle are military uniforms and kits.

Members of the public are please urged to continue to support our troops with credible information that will lead to stemming the tide of insecurity across the country.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Brigadier General
Director Army Public Relations
22 June 2022

*PRESS RELEASE*

*CDS HOSTS SENEGALESE DEFENCE INSTITUTE PARTICIPANTS, SAYS AFN OPERATIONS GUIDED BY EXTANT LAWS*

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor has reaffirmed that the operations and activities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have been guided by extant laws, rules of engagements and standard operating procedures.

The CDS made this known today Tuesday 21 June 2022 during the visit of the participants of Promotion Staff Course 4 of the Institute of Defence, Senegal to Defence Headquarters, (DHQ) Abuja who are on a study tour to Nigeria.

The CDS who was represented by the Chief of Defence Civil Military Cooperation, Rear Admiral Adeseye Ayobanjo, said the Nigerian Military was created through appropriate constitutional provisions, as such its operations and activities were guided by extant laws as well as regional and global regulations.

Gen Irabor further explained that the AFN as an instrument of the law, would continue to leverage on the same laws in conducting its operations towards securing the Nation’s territory as well as the lives and property of Nigerians and foreign nationals.

The Defence Chief commended the leadership of the Senegalese Defence Institute for visiting Nigeria.

He said beside boosting the existing bilateral and diplomatic relations, the visit would afford the two countries the opportunity to capitalized on their commonalities to further foster the defence collaborations between the armed forces of both countries, particularly in combating transnational security threats occasioned by global terrorism.

Gen Irabor showered encomium on both Nigeria and Senegalese militaries for their contributions towards peace support operations in Africa.

Earlier in his remarks, the Head of the Senegalese delegation, Colonel C Gueye, thanked the CDS for the warm reception.

Col Gueye who is also the Director, Institute of Defence, Senegal said the purpose of the visit was to enable the participants gain firsthand knowledge of the organization and roles of the AFN. According to him, the Institution’s mission is to build the capacity of staff officers in the areas of crisis management and maintenance of global peace.

The Senegalese delegation, which comprises three members of directing staff and 26 students are expected to visit other military establishments, institutions and formations during their stay in Nigeria.

You are kindly requested to use your medium to disseminate this information to the general public. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

JIMMY AKPOR
Major General
Director Defence Information
21 June 2022

*NA WILL CONTINUE TO STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITIZENS IN SECURING THE NATION – COAS ASSURES OTARU OF AUCHI*

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya has assured that the Nigerian Army(NA) will continue to strengthen its partnership with Nigerians in securing the nation. He gave the assurance when he paid homage to the Otaru of Auchi Sacred Kingdom, His Royal Highness(HRH), Alhaji Aliru Momoh, Ikelebe III.

Expressing appreciation to the royal father for his support to the NA, General Yahaya stated that the NA will continue to leverage on partnership with critical stakeholders for the sustenance of peace and security.

While welcoming the COAS to his palace, Alhaji Aliru Momoh assured the COAS of the continuous support of his kingdom to the NA, in pursuit of its constitutional mandate. He prayed for divine guidance for the nation, the COAS and the NA in all its engagements.

While in Auchi, the COAS commissioned the newly constructed Nigerian Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (NASEME) Multipurpose Hall and the student officers’ hostel of the school. He later declared the maiden Nigerian Army Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (NAEME) Research and Development Seminar 2022 open. Gen Yahaya commended the Corps for the maintenance of NA equipment, despite challenges associated with sourcing of spares. He also extolled the ongoing efforts by the corps to locally produce Rocket Propelled Grenade Launcher tubes, Anti-Aircraft guns, as well as fabrication of spare parts for the NA.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Brigadier General
Director Army Public Relations
21 June 2022

GOVERNOR LALONG MOURNS FORMER PLATEAU MILITARY ADMINISTRATOR COL. MUSA SHEHU

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has described the demise of the late Military Administrator of Plateau and Rivers State Col. Musa Sheikh Shehu rtd as huge loss to the nation and his immediate family.

Governor Lalong who personally attended the funeral rites of the late Military Administrator at the Apo Cemetery in Abuja said the late Col. Shehu was a fine officer and gentleman who served the nation with dignity and honour.

He said as Military Administrator of Plateau State between 1998 and 1999, Col. Shehu demonstrated enermous passion for peace, justice and development by carrying all segments of the society along in governance.

Lalong acknowledged his efforts in implementing projects and programmes that impacted the lives of the people across the entire 17 Local Government Areas of the State.

The Governor also praised his contributions to the political development of the country and his efforts towards consolidating democracy where he served as the Secretary General of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF).

While commiserating with his family, Lalong urged them to accept his death as the will of God and continue to pray for the repose of his soul.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
19th June 2022.

Plateau 2023 – Group drums support for APC’s candidate Dr Nentawe Yilwatda

By Golok Nanmwa, Jos

Plateau Regeneration Group on Sunday called on the people of the State to support the All Progressives Congress APC gubernatorial candidate in the forthcoming general elections Dr Nentawe Yilwatda ,because he would deliver dividends of democracy to the people of the state .

In a statement issued in Jos immediately after a meeting of the group , which was made available to newsmen by its spokesman Pam Datiri , they stressed that Nentawe would take the state to greater heights if elected .

In his words ,Plateau needs a honest person with focus like Nentawe Yilwatda .

“We are also confident that Nentawe who is an ICT expert would use technology to tackle the insecurity confronting Plateau state as well as boost the economy of the state ,he would also revamp the education ,health and tourism sector of the state if elected .”

The group further said it had monitored Dr Nentawe’s advocacy for good governance for close to a decade, emphasising that a man with such virtues had something in the offing, which was what the State needed for now.

“Nentawe Yilwatda remains the candidate to beat and is the best among those who are coming out to vie for the position at this moment.”

“The APC candidate Dr Nentawe is ready to make Plateau State a better home for us. He is a man who knows when to set aside the important things in order to accomplish the vital ones; He is a man that always wants the success of others.

According to the statement: “The Human and mineral resources of the state remained untapped for so long and that has created unemployment which eventually gave rise to criminality across the three Senatorial districts”,we are confident that Nentawe would revamp this sector and provide jobs for the people of the state .

Dr Nentawe Yilwatda understands the challenges facing Plateau State and is ready to confront those wired challenges using his wealth of experience .

The group also called on other APC aspirants to come together and work for the victory of the party in the forthcoming elections .

“We as a group are calling on Nentawe Yilwatda to reach out to other aspirants who contested the Primaries with him and ensure that they work for the party in the forthcoming elections .”

Why Yusuf Babayo Gagdi Remains The People’s Choice

Hon. Yusuf Babayo Adamu Gagdi, Member Representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal House Of Assembly Abuja. An amazingly simple man guided by sound ethical principles. He has deep respect for people, processes, and rules.

With unblemished leadership qualities, clear vision on the right direction for the society and extraordinary courage to go against the status quo and make positive change possible.

The people of Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam have witneseds unprecedented developmental strides since he took over the mantle of leadership of the Pkk. Pkk before now was run based on family business without any legal framework to be called a Constituency, until he came on board and restored the lost values of the Constituency.

This youthful and resourceful Rep Member within just three (3) years in office has recorded achievements in various sectors including security, health, agriculture, education, infrastructure development like roads and schools, amongst others across the 3 Local Goverment Area’s of the Plateau Central Zone.

Hon. Yusuf Babayo Gagdi has positively touched almost all the Local Government in terms of Social Amenities.

Even in the holy book, God says we should reward good with good, Yusuf Babayo has done well, destiny choose him as one. Let’s shun sentiments and reelect Danmajen Jhar to consolidate on his first term achievement.

Taru Salim Dugub Writes from Dugub Pada Central Primary School Polling Unit, Dugub Federal Ward Of Kanam LGC.

UPDATE ON CONSTRUCTION OF BRITISH-AMERICAN FLYOVER AND DUALIZATION

Work continues steadily at the construction site of the British-American Flyover and Dualisation to Lamingo Roundabout Junction as the management and staff of the construction company Craneburg Construction Ltd, have shown uncommon determination to keep to the dateline of delivering the project.

Recall that some months ago, some of the staff raised concerns over welfare matters and threatened to down tools which led to immediate intervention of His Excellency Governor Simon Bako Lalong who directed the Commissioner for Works, Pam Bot-Mang to ensure that the matters are addressed.

Following that intervention, the workers put behind them the setback and continued work with commitment and vigour.

Today, the workers are full of joy that most of their concerns have been addressed and the project is going on as planned.
Most of the pillars have been erected while the cross beams are being cast and will soon be ready for mounting.

The accompanying bridges have also attained significant progress.

Governor Simon Lalong who paid an unscheduled visit to the project site on 2nd June 2022, expressed delight on the progress so far and urged the contractors to sustain the level of work which he observed was done with high quality and at a good pace.

He was assured by the Commissioner for Works, Pam Bot-Mang and the site Engineer Mr. Dani that the project will be done according to plans and delivered on schedule, all things being equal.

Also, the relocation and reconnection of water pipes and power lines have substantially been completed and water and light are being gradually restored to affected communities.

Recently when the Governor inspected the Polo roundabout where a fuel tanker crashed and resulted in huge damage to property around the area, the Governor said the permanent solution to the incessant accidents along the Polo roundabout was the completion of the British-American Flyover which will provide alternative route for heavy duty trucks passing through the city.

We continue to appreciate and commend residents and motorists affected by the construction directly or indirectly, for their patience, support and understanding thus far as we continue to THINK PLATEAU and ACT PLATEAU!!

Engr Alex Plangnan
Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Works,
Plateau State.
18th June 2022.