NDLEA CHAIRMAN VISITS GOVERNOR LALONG,  DECRIES RAVAGING EFFECTS OF DRUGS

The Chairman/CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Gen. Buba Marwa, rtd. has visited Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong at the Government House Rayfield Jos where he lamented the ravaging effects of drug abuse on the society particularly violent crimes.

Marwa who was on a courtesy visit to the Governor as part of his working visit to Plateau State said the menace of drug abuse is a nationwide problem which has fuelled violent crimes and insecurity in many parts of Nigeria including Plateau State.

He said the NDLEA has worked out strategies for not only stopping the acquisition and distribution of narcotic substances, but also engaged in massive education and enlightenment to get the entire society on board to fight the menace which is touching every segment of the society.

Marwa said it was for this reason that the agency has not only stopped at seizure, arrest and prosecution of drug traffickers, but also recommended compulsory tests for public office holders, intending couples and others in order to facilitate the rehabilitation and management of those who are already using drugs.

He commended Governor Simon Lalong for his efforts in assisting the NDLEA Training Academy Jos and Plateau State Command with logistics, infrastructure and collaboration in discharge of their duties. He appealed for an allocation of land to enable the agency build its barracks which was approved by President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2022 budget.

Responding,  Governor Lalong said he was excited to recieve Gen. Marwa whose pedigree for performance is widely known during his glorious military career.

He said the NDLEA has done a lot in Nigeria and in particular Plateau State by arresting drug kingpins who at one time thought they were untouchable. This he said reduced the rate of violent crimes in the State.

Lalong however appealed to the NDLEA Chairman to intensify efforts in helping the State avoid being used as a transit State for narcotics as well as handle the rehabilitation of those already affected.

He pledged to complete the construction of the rehabilitation centre currently under construction as well as continue to offer more support to the agency when needed.

Gen. Marwa is in Plateau State for the passing out of newly trained officers among other activities.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
17th November 2021.

NORTHERN GOVERNORS CONDOLE DANGOTE OVER LOSS OF BROTHER, SANI.

The Northern Governors Forum has condoled businessman, Aliko Dangote over the loss of his younger brother, Sani Dangote who untill his death was the Vice President of the Dangote Group.

Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong in a message of commiseration described the death of Sani Dangote as a devastating blow to the family and to the Dangote Group in particular.

Governor Lalong said the late Sani was a great asset to the Dangote business conglomerate and did a lot to see to its growth in various sectors of the Nigerian and global economy.

“As a silent achiever, the late Sani was known for his business acumen, attention to details and focus for success in the various positions he occupied in the business world. He built a personality profile of integrity, diligence and service throughout his career. He will be surely missed” he said.

Lalong said the late Sani represented the bright business minds of the Northern Region and contributed a lot to raising younger entrepreneurs who have gone on to become successful businessmen and women in the region and nation at large.

While urging his family and the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote to accept the development as the will of God, Lalong said the legacies of late Sani will continue to endure as he played his role in improving the economic fortunes of the Northern Region and Nigeria as a whole.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State and Chairman Northern Governor’s Forum.
16th November 2021.

BIRTHDAY FELICITATIONS TO PLATEAU FIRST LADY, MRS REGINA LALONG

On the auspicious occasion of the birthday anniversary celebration of Plateau First Lady and my Mother, Mrs Regina Bako Lalong, I join millions of well wishers of the first family to celebrate the iconic Amazon.

You have been the pillar that provided the needed support for your husband to lead Plateau State to enviable heights. The success story of the current Rescue administration can never be complete without your support from the home front.

As you make merry in commemoration of the day, I wish you a joyous celebration and more prosperous years ahead.

Once again, happy birthday!

Signed:
Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi,
(Dan Malikin Kanam),
Member representing PKK and Chairman House Committee on Navy.

GOVERNOR LALONG APPROVES MORE APPOINTMENTS

In addition to earlier appointments of Special Advisers approved by Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong, more appointments have been announced of other Special Advisers and other political appointees.

The following is the full list of Special Advisers approved by the Governor:

1.Hon. Diket Plang
2.    Arch. Pam Dung Gyang
3.Justice Philomina Lot (Rtd)
4.Chief Burki Gofwan
5.Barr. Jonathan Mawiyau
6.Mrs. Felicia Yakzum
7.Hon. Joe Bukar
8.Hon. Danladi Mann
9.Hon. Talatu Apini
10.  Barr. Bashir Musa Sati
11.  Barr. Kwamkur Samuel Vondip
12.  Rev. Dr. David Laje
13.  Hon. Sani Mudi
14.   Maj. Gen. Paul Goar (Rtd)

Honorary Special Advisers are:

1. Nde Ezekiel Gomos
2. Prof. Ochapa Onazi
3. Chief Michael Maqual
4. Maj. Gen. A.C. Agundu (Rtd)

The Governor also approved the appointment of two Deputy Chiefs of Staff in the Governor’s Office.  They are:

1. Salihu Kwando – Deputy Chief of Staff (General Admin)
2. Ibrahim Saleh Maitala – Deputy Chief of Staff (Political Affairs)

The Governor also approved the appointment of Managin Director and Board of the Plateau Minerals Development Company Ltd. (PMDC). The new Managing Director Mr. Kwaplong Mathew Bialwan.

The Board is constituted of the following:

1. H. E. Executive Governor of Plateau State – Chairman
2. Hon. Commissioner for Minerals Development – Member
3. Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs – Member
4. MD PIPC – Member

The Special Advisers will be sworn in on Wednesday, 17th November 2021 at the New Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
15th November 2021.

NDE DAVID VICTOR DIMKA fsi FELICITATES WITH THE FIRST LADY,MRS REGINA LALONG ON HER BIRTHDAY

The leader of the DVD Movement in Plateau State, Nde David Victor Dimka fsi on behalf of his family and all members of the DVD Movement felicitate with Plateau State first lady on the occasion of her birthday.

Nde David Victor Dimka fsi in a joyous message described the attainment of the age by the mother of Plateau State as a momentous occasion that calls for celebration and thanksgiving to God.

Reviewing the impactful life of the first Lady, Nde David Victor Dimka fsi said, “I commend the First Lady for being a woman of substance whom God is using mightily. We applaud her for reaching out and focusing on the welfare and wellbeing of women, children and the vulnerable.

“Using her non- governmental organization, SWITCH Foundation, she has trained and empowered thousands of women and youths, especially the girl child. We thank her for her contributions in other critical areas of national development.”

“As you celebrate this day, we pray fervently that God will continue to enrich you and your family with greater wisdom and may he grant you many more fruitful years ahead.”

“We wish you many more years of peace, good health and God’s protection.” he concluded.


DVD Media Team

PLATEAU STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL REJOICES WITH FIRST LADY REGINA LALONG ON HER BIRTHDAY.

The Plateau State Executive Council has expressed warm felicitations to the First Lady of Plateau State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Regina Simon Bako Lalong on the occasion of her birthday.

The Council rejoices with the Mother of the State for marking another year, describing the occasion as an auspicious one that calls for Thanksgiving to God for his faithfulness in her life and her family.

It particularly expressed delight that the First Lady has over the years devoted her life to the service of humanity by focussing on the welfare and wellbeing of women, children and the vulnerable.

Using her non-governmental organisation, SWITCH Foundation, the First Lady has trained and empowered thousands of women and youths, including the girl child. This has reduced poverty, provided social education and emancipated them from some negative societal practices that impinge on their rights.

Her Excellency has also offered assistance to many indigent girls by sponsoring their education and also ensuring that they choose career paths that will give them a brighter future and make them good citizens of Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole.

The First Lady’s passion for fight against drug and substance abuse among youths has similarly received tremendous accolades as she has done so much to support relevant government agencies through her foundation to discourage access, abuse and distribution of drugs in Plateau State, Northern Nigeria and the entire country. She has also made afforts at ensuring the rehabilitation of those under the influence of harmful substances.

Apart from her role as the Public Relations Officer of the Northern Governors Wives Forum, the Plateau State Government is also appreciative of Her Excellency’s support to the Executive Governor who has been holding forth at the family front and giving moral and spiritual backing to her husband to continue with the Rescue Mission and taking Plateau State to greater heights.

The Exco wishes her a joyous celebration and prays that God will give her many more years of good health, peace and divine protection.

Dan Manjang
Commissioner for Information and Communication,
Plateau State.
15th November 2021

Plateau group declare Gabriel Suswan enemy of Plateau State.
“Focus on your recall ” group advises.

Plateau United for Protection of Democary (PUFPOD) has declared  Senator Gabriel Suswan as the enemy of Plateau State who is bent on formenting unrest in the state to score cheap political points for his sponsors.

The group in a statement signed by it’s President, Comrade Istifanus Abok described Sen Suswan, as “a serial betrayer who has abandoned his constituency to wage a war against the Government and good people of Plateau State.”

The group said ” the people of Plateau State find the statement of Sen Suswan on the floor of the National Assembly where he called on his colleagues to remove the elected Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon Yakubu Sanda, as absurd, insensitive and bizarre, with intent to instigate hatred and crisis in the state. “

The group wondered why a former Governor and Senator of neighbouring Benue State will postulate on Plateau affairs, without consulting with Senator Hezekiah Dimka and Senator Nora Dadu’ut who are his colleagues, to get a balanced position of developments in their State.
” is he the Governor-General of Benue and Plateau states?” the statement querried.

According to the group ” we are surprised that Sen Suswan who kept mute amid insecurity in his constituency, resulting in the gruesome murder of his brother and the attempted murder of Alfred Atera, Council Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA,
has suddenly regained his voice to castigate Gov Simon Lalong over actions of an independent arm of Government”

Speaking further, the group urged Sen Suswan to focus his attention more on the recall process being championed by his constituency for lack of performance and adequate representation.
It will be recalled that Sankera United for Democracy and Development (SUDD) has threatened to initiate the recall of Senator Gabriel Suswam of Benue State for allegedly neglecting the Sankera people of Benue North-East, which he represents, comprising of Ukum, Logo and Katsina-Ala councils.

The group led by Edward told reporters in Abuja that consultation had been concluded to begin the process of recalling Suswam from the senate.

“Our people cannot breathe anymore. The most disturbing aspect of this is the incontrovertible fact that our son, Senator Gabriel Suswam, has become a fugitive senator.

“To his satisfaction, he has maintained a vivacious silence. His absence in his immediate constituency of Sankera to address the people is disturbing. Suswam has committed many sins against the people of Sankera,” he said.

The group advised Sen Suswan to go back to Katsina-Ala and apologise to his suffering constituents and stop embarrassing the good people of Benue State who share common heritage with their Plateau neighbours.

GOVERNOR LALONG ATTENDS ALBUM LAUNCH BY PASTOR ERNEST DADES; CHALLENGES NIGERIAN ARTISTES TO PROJECT PEACE, UNITY AND HARMONY.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong on Sunday 14th November 2021, graced the album launch of one of the leading Christian gospel music artistes in Plateau State and Nigeria, Pastor Ernest Dades at the Azi Nyako Youth Centre, Dadin-Kowa Jos.

Governor Lalong while commending the musician for his enduring service to God and humanity through music, said the artiste continues to churn out quality music while mentoring younger ones in the industry.

Lalong said Pastor Ernest Dades has consistently produced music that is inspired by the Holy spirit which has transformed lives and provided godly entertainment for many Nigerians across various faiths and socio-economic backgrounds.

He recalled how the artiste contributed to his campaign in 2015 by producing music that captured the truth and conveyed the concept of justice, equity, unity and peace to the people of Plateau who embraced it and ensured that the collective will of the people prevailed over the diviations of the time.

He said “Plateau State belongs to all of us and nobody will be allowed to dominate another because he or she thinks he has more strength. We have to do everything possible to provide a good environment for all people of Plateau State to achieve their aspirations within the concept of One Plateau. Pastor Dades propagated this message strongly in 2015 and I urge him to continue to do so even as we move closer to another transition”.

The Governor also asked the people of Plateau State to ignore those who are trying to plant seeds of discord and cause choas using politics of exclusion and incitement, saying the time for such divisive political rhetoric has long gone, and the storm of strife and acrimony is over in Plateau State.

“There is no need for bitterness and unnecessary heating up the polity because Plateau people will decide their leaders based on the template that they ensured was sustained when they brought this Government into office. Yesterday was another zone, today is the Southern zone and tomorrow, it will be another zone. Do not be deceived by politicians who are going up and down poisoning minds. What we are focused on now as a Government is to empower our youths though agriculture, job creation and skill development. Thousands have been trained and more will be trained in the coming months and also empowered” he said.

He launched the new album entitled ” Marmarin Sujada (Desire for Worship)” and also pledged to support the live recording of the compendium of songs by the artiste scheduled for next year. The Governor also directed Dades to work with other artistes to organise a concert before Christmas where the people will converge to give praise to God for his goodness to Plateau State.

Pastor Ernest Dades appreciated Governor Lalong for his support over the years and said he was honoured to have him physically grace the occasion which is a major motivation for him and other artistes. He also appreciated the promise by the Governor to support some artistes with transport logistics to assist them in Ministry.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
14th November 2021.

GOVERNOR LALONG CONGRATULATES NEW COCIN PRESIDENT, REV. DR. AMOS MOHZO

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated the President-elect of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Rev. Dr. Amos Mohzo who was elected on Friday at the Church’s 100th General Church Council meeting in Jos.

Governor Lalong in a congratulatory message described the election of Rev. Dr. Mohzo as another higher calling in his spiritual journey where he has served the Church in various capacities over the years.

The Governor recalled that the Borno-born cleric was until his recent election as COCIN Vice President, the Church’s General Secretary, a position he rose to while serving as the Church’s Deputy General Secretary.

Lalong said the overwhelming election of the new COCIN President by the General Church Council was an affirmation of the confidence he has built over the years in the service of God and the discharge of his duties in propagation of the gospel of salvation and service to humanity.

The Governor acknowledged that the new COCIN President will be coming into office at a time when there is grater need for the Chuch to do more in praying for the salvation of men, and also for God’s intervention in the challenges that the nation continues to face particularly in areas of insecurity, unity and peaceful coexistence.

He asked him to devote himself to his spiritual calling and provide the needed leadership for the Church to carry out its mandate of bringing people to Christ and making the society a better place by teaching love, righteousness, tolerance, justice and honesty among other virtues that are contained in the Holy Bible.

He pledged the continued commitment and collaboration of the Plateau State Government and his Rescue Administration to the Church to ensure that the tenure of the new President is not only fruitful, but transformational in bringing people closer to God and one another.

Lalong also prays that the new COCIN President who was one time Provost of Gindiri Theological Seminary, will work hard to find a quick and lasting solution to the obstacles that are holding the take-off of the Karl Kumm University Vom, owned by COCIN, which was granted licence to commence academic activities but is yet to do so.

The Governor also commended the outgoing President Rev. Prof. Dachollom Datiri for his service to the Church, Plateau State and the nation at large and wished him well in his future endeavours.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
12th November 2021

SPEAKER RT. HON. YAKUBU SANDA PRESIDES OVER PLENARY AS HOUSE LAMENTS DESTRUCTION AT ASSEMBLY COMPLEX; SEEKS ALTERNATIVE FACILITY AND IMMEDIATE REPAIRS OF COMPLEX.

Plateau State House of Assembly has condemned the destruction that occured in the house following the recent upheavals in the Assembly, leading to vandalization of many items that has made the House facilities, particularly the hallowed chambers unsuitable for legislative business.

To this end, the House has passed a resolution seeking to move its legislative business to the Chambers of the Old Government House, pending the repairs of the damaged and vandalised facilities in its hallowed Chamber.

This followed a resolution arising from a motion moved by Majority Leader Hon. Naanlong Daniel seeking the intervention of the Governor to provide an alternative facility for their legislative business and also facilitate the repairs of various parts of the Assembly complex which were destroyed by hoodlums recently. The motion was unanimously supported by members.

At the House sitting which was presided over by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda on Friday 12th November 2021, the Honourable members lamented the unfortunate development that occured after the change of leadership where hoodlums gained access to the house including the hallowed chambers and caused serious damages.

The House which was billed to begin deliberations on the 2022 Appropriation Bill and the request for confirmation of the extension of appointment of Chairman and Members of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission, PLASIEC, had to stand down the items on the Order Paper because of the deplorable nature of the chambers.

Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda assured that the House will soon regain stability as the events of the recent past are under control and the new leadership of the House under him is doing everything possible to ensure that lost ground is regained and the business of law making and oversight for the good of the Plateau people is carried out seamlessly.

Before adjourning, the House appreciated the support of the good people of Plateau State who have remained calm and prayed for the quick resolution of the recent upheavals in the House, assuring that they will always act in the interest of the people at all times.

Sebastine Hommuk,
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker,
Plateau State House of Assembly.
12th November 2021.