GOVERNOR LALONG TO PRESENT 2022 BUDGET TO HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

Plateau State Governor Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong is scheduled to present the 2022 Appropriation Bill to the Plateau State House of Assembly tomorrow, Thursday 21st October 2021.

The presentation is to take place at the main chambers of the Plateau State House of Assembly Jos by 11am.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
20th October 2021.

Plateau state Governor  Simon Lalong ,on Wednesday inaugurated a  steering committee for the development of the state.

Speaking at the occasion in Jos , the Governor said that despite the fact that his administration is scheduled to exit the stage in less than two years from now, he is determined  to leave behind positive and lasting legacies for the people of Plateau State.

In his words “I had charged the Programme Management and Results Delivery Office (PMRDO), to work with our State Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Office, to leverage on the experiences and the lessons learned from our participation at the 2019 session of the United Nations General Assembly to craft a development plan that will outlive this current administration. “

Lalong also said that “The Plateau State Agenda 2050 will not only build upon the gains of the current Plateau State Development Strategy 2019 – 2023, but will also deliberately align it’s aspirations as a State to the global development targets and indicators captured in the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), he added.

He further said  “We are conscious of the dwindling inflow of resources from the centre, and the resultant agitations from various States in Nigeria for a review of the revenue sharing formula. “

“Our aspiration as a State is to continue to grow and develop in such a manner that in no distant time, we will no longer need to depend on the inflow of resources from the centre. Already, we have started looking inwards and achieving modest results.”

“Plateau State is blessed with so many natural resources in agriculture; solid minerals; and tourism, which should make this State a significant net surplus contributor to the national coffers.”

” I believe Nigerians have not forgotten the fact that Plateau State in the past played a key role in sustaining the Nigerian economy with the tin and Columbite from her mines for several decades before the advent of oil in this country. “

He charged the  Steering Committee to leave no stone unturned in the effort of developing the blueprint that will restore Plateau State to the top three States in Nigeria with respect to economic development, good governance, and the social welfare of her people. 

“As a gender-sensitive Governor and one who believes in the capacity of women to contribute effectively to assignments such as this, I promise to include on this committee, the Head of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission immediately “.

He called on the committee to provide strategic leadership and direction for the Development Plan Project as well as to ensure the carrying out of a Needs Assessment and set up Sectoral Working Groups accordingly as well as o oversee the process of developing the Plan and guide the work and activities of the Sectorial Working Committees, ensuring consistency with their respective Terms of Reference.

He said that  committee would report regularly to the Executive Governor on the progress of work on the project and to provide necessary linkages between the State Executive Council, the State House of Assembly, the State Traditional Council, the Organised Private Sector and other relevant  Stakeholders in the State.

” The composition of this committee has been carefully designed to convey sufficient authority, ensure inclusivity, and build sustainability. It is expected that the consultative engagements in this assignment will be wide and devoid of any partisan preferences. Only the best will be good enough for our state.”

Our correspondent reports that  the Deputy Governor of Plateau State Prof Sonnie Tyoden would act as Chairman of the committee  ,while the Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly , as well as  Secretary to the Government of the State Prof Danladi Atu  would serve as members .

REMARKS BY H.E. RT. HON. (DR) SIMON BAKO LALONG, KSGG, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF PLATEAU STATE, AT THE INAUGURATION OF THE STATE STEERING COMMITTEE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF PLATEAU STATE AGENDA 2050 HELD AT NEW GOVERNMENT HOUSE, RAYFIELD, JOS ON 20TH OCTOBER 2021.

PROTOCOLS
1. It is a great privilege to welcome you to this brief but very important event. Despite the fact that this administration is scheduled to exit the stage in less than two years from now, holding this kind of activity is a clear demonstration of our commitment to lay the foundation for the growth and long-term development of Plateau State over the next thirty years. That is, the focus of Plateau State Agenda 2050.
2. In our continuous efforts to leave behind positive and lasting legacies for the people of Plateau State, I had charged the Programme Management and Results Delivery Office (PMRDO), to work with our State Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Office, to leverage on the experiences and the lessons learned from our participation at the 2019 session of the United Nations General Assembly to craft a development plan that will outlive this current administration.
3. I was therefore excited to receive the report that these two offices successfully collaborated to attract the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for the development of the Plateau State Agenda 2050. It is our intention to maximize this opportunity which the UNDP has provided for Plateau State to prepare for a better future.

4. The Plateau State Agenda 2050 will not only build upon the gains of the current Plateau State Development Strategy 2019 – 2023, but will also deliberately align our aspirations as a State to the global development targets and indicators captured in the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
5. The saying goes that “He who fails to plan, plans to fail.” Going by the dynamic nature of global challenges that resonate with every part of the world including Plateau State, we are determined to ensure that we are not caught napping. That is the reason why we are laying down this plan to ensure that Plateau State does not fail particularly in the days of adversity.
6. We are conscious of the dwindling inflow of resources from the centre, and the resultant agitations from various States in Nigeria for a review of the revenue sharing formula. Our aspiration as a State is to continue to grow and develop in such a manner that in no distant time, we will no longer need to depend on the inflow of resources from the centre. Already, we have started looking inwards and achieving modest results.
7. Plateau State is blessed with so many natural resources in agriculture; solid minerals; and tourism, which should make this State a significant net surplus contributor to the national coffers. I believe Nigerians have not forgotten the fact that Plateau State in the part played a key role in sustaining the Nigerian economy with the tin and Columbite from her mines for several decades before the advent of oil in this country.
8. I make bold to say that we can do it again as those resources are still available in abundance. Besides, we have human resources and talents in various fields that we are ready to offer the world. That is why we have planned an Economic and Investment Summit that will enable us remind investors of the vast opportunities that Plateau State is blessed with
9. Bearing this conviction in mind, I wish to charge this Steering Committee to leave no stone unturned in the effort of developing this blueprint that will restore Plateau State to the top three States in Nigeria with respect to economic development, good governance, and the social welfare of her people.
10. The composition of this committee has been carefully designed to convey sufficient authority, ensure inclusivity, and build sustainability. It is expected that the consultative engagements in this assignment will be wide and devoid of any partisan preferences. Only the best will be good enough for our state.
11. The membership of the Committee include:
i. H.E., Deputy Governor of Plateau State
Chairman
ii. Deputy Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly
Member
iii. Secretary to the Government of the State
Member
iv. Commissioner for Budget & Economic Planning
Member
v. Commissioner for Physical Planning & Urban Development
Member
vi. Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs
Member
vii. Commissioner for Justice & Attorney-General
Member
viii. Chairman – Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Plateau State Chapter
Member
ix. Director-General – Research and Documentation
Member
x. Director-General – State Bureau of Statistics
Member
xi. State Coordinator – Sustainable Development Goals Office
Member
xii. Chairman – Economic and Financial Advisory Council
Member
xiii. Chairman – State Traditional Council
Member
xiv. President – Plateau Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (PLACCIMA)
Member
xv. Chairman – Plateau Civil Societies Forum
Member
xvi. Representative – Plateau State Diaspora Community
Member
xvii. Chief Technical Advisor – Programme Management and Results Delivery Office
Secretary

12. As a gender-sensitive Governor and one who believes in the capacity of women to contribute effectively to assignments such as this, I promise to include on this committee, the Head of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission immediately we announce that appointment.
13. These are your Terms of Reference:
a) To provide strategic leadership and direction for the Development Plan Project.
b) To ensure the carrying out of a Needs Assessment and set up Sectoral Working Groups accordingly.
c) To oversee the process of developing the Plan and guide the work and activities of the Sectorial Working Committees, ensuring consistency with their respective Terms of Reference.
d) To report regularly to the Executive Governor on the progress of work on the project.
e) To provide necessary linkages between the State Executive Council, the State House of Assembly, the State Traditional Council, the Organised Private Sector and other relevant Stakeholders in the State.
f) To act as Authoriser to ensure cooperation and collaboration of all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of Government and other relevant non-state actors groups.
g) To provide first level approvals of drafts of the Development Plan at different stages of development.
h) To create the enabling environment for all necessary stakeholder engagements and other relevant events for the project.
i) To ensure alignment of the policy goals, targets and strategies in the Development Plan with the Vision and Mission of Plateau State.
j) To communicate the overall purpose, direction and progress of the project to MDAs and other relevant Stakeholders.
k) To lead the presentation of the Plateau Agenda 2050 to the State EXCO for approval.
l) To secure the legislative instrument for the sustainable implementation of the Plan across various administrations up to year 2050.
m) To set up a Secretariat to coordinate logistics and to work with the Consultants engaged for the project, providing backstopping support to the various teams on the project.
n) To ensure lessons learned and good practices are documented for subsequent references

(MEMBERS RISE TO BE INAUGURATED)
14. I hereby declare the Steering Committee of the Plateau State Agenda 2050 duly constituted. (You may now take your seats, please)
15. Finally, as I wish the members of the Steering Committee a successful assignment, I call on all citizens of Plateau at home and in the diaspora; friends, lovers and well-wishers of this great State, irrespective of their political, religious or social leanings, to contribute their quotas to this crucial exercise whenever called upon by the Committee.
16. Thank you all. God bless Plateau State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Rt. Hon. (Dr) Simon Bako Lalong, KSGG,
Executive Governor,
Plateau State.
20th October 2021.

KANAM APPOINTMENTS.

The Executive Chairman Of Kanam Local Government Council,Hon.DR.Dayyabu Yusuf Garga,has approved the appointments of the following

1.Hashimu Ibn Umar,as Secretary,Kanam Local Government Council.

2.Mr Emmanuel Amos Sanda,Chief Of Staff.

3.Askia Mohammed Bawa as Special Adviser on Political Matters.

4.Garba Othman,Special Adviser on Projects Monitoring.

The appointments are to take effect from Wednesday, 20th October,2021.

Congratulations to all of them.

SIGNED.
Mohammed Yusuf Kanam.
Special Adviser,Information And Protocols,
For
Executive Chairman
Kanam Local Government Council.
20-10-2021

ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS, APC PLATEAU STATE
HAPPY EID-EL-MAULUD
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Plateau State Chapter, Honourable Rufus Bature heartily congratulates the Muslim Ummah in Plateau state and beyond on the auspicious occasion of this year’s Eid- El – Maulud celebration which is the annual commemoration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Mohammed.
As you mark this very important day in the Islamic Calendar, it is my hope and belief that you will do so in the spirit of love, peace and tolerance which are the cherished virtues of Prophet Mohammed.
I urge you to see the occasion as a moment of solemn reflection and to consolidate on the prevailing peace in Plateau state. We must shun all divisive tendencies and other vices which are detrimental to the collective interest of the good and peace – loving people of Plateau State.
I urge you to continue to support His Excellency, Governor Simon Bako Lalong’s rescue administration to enable him continue to deliver on his mandate of securing the lives of all Plateau citizens and the deliverance of greater dividends of democracy.
I appeal to all security agents in the state to be vigilant in order to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration.
Once again, Happy Eid-el-Maulud Sallah celebration.

Announcer :

Hon. Sylvanus Namang
APC State P. R. O

NDE DIMKA, VICTOR DAVID fsi FELICITATES WITH GENERAL YAKUBU GOWON AT 87

“On behalf of myself, family and the DVD Movement in Plateau State, I warmly felicitate with our father, Gen. Yakubu Gowon GCFR, former Nigerian Head of State as he marks his 87th birthday.”

Nde Dimka, Victor David fsi in a joyous message described the attainment of the landmark age of 87 by the father of Nigeria as a momentous occasion that calls for celebration and thanksgiving to God.

He said, “Gen. Gowon believes in the unity and diversity of Nigeria and has done all within his power to ensure that the nation remains a prosperous, indivisible and progressive environment for people to realise their potentials irrespective of their backgrounds.”

He also commends the former Head of State for reach out to the less privileged in the society through the Yakubu Gowon Foundation which has carried out several interventions particularly in healthcare delivery, peace building and other critical areas of national development.

“As you celebrate this day, we pray fervently that God will continue to enrich you with greater wisdom and many more fruitful years ahead.
We wish you many more years of peace, good health and God’s protection.”


DVD Media Team

NDE DIMKA VICTOR DAVID fsi FELICITATES WITH MUSLIM UMMAH AS THEY CELEBRATE EID-EL MAULUD FESTIVAL

“On behalf of myself,my family and the DVD Movement in Plateau State, I felicitate with Muslim Ummah as they mark yet another Eid-El Maulud festival.”

Nde David Victor Dimka fsi urged Muslims to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice, obedience, patience, love, compassion and indeed selflessness which without doubt symbolise the true character of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

He said the failure of humanity to practice love is what has given rise to selfishness, violence, intolerance, religious bigotry, ethnic hatred, corruption,high crime rate and unimaginable levels of wickedness that is prevalent in various forms in society.

Nde Dimka Victor David fsi therefore enjoined Nigerians especially the Muslim Ummah to use the Eid-El Maulud festival as a period of sober reflection on the numerous challenges facing the country such that the values of sacrifice, obedience, patience, love, compassion and selflessness which the festival epitomises will permeate our national life.

While wishing the Muslim Ummah a successful celebration, Nde Dimka said, “Nigeria is in dire need of inter-religious harmony and dialogue, practical faith-based conduct as well as truth infused lifestyles that unite people and enhances their ability to experience and share love with one another irrespective of their faiths, education, economic status and ethnicity.”

“Nigerians should fully appreciate the lessons and reflect on the true values which Maulud teaches, so that we all will protect and preserve our common patrimony and destiny through mutual sacrifice, tolerance, patience and above all, love. We should work towards a better society that we all shall be proud of.”

Concluding, Comptroller Dimka (Rtd) decried the banditry, kidnappings and wanton destruction of lives and property which have become a scar on our national cohesion and development, and called for deep soul searching by Muslims and Christians alike since all religions proclaim the sanctity of life and property.

HAPPY EID-EL MAULUD


DVD Media Team

NORTHERN GOVERNORS CELEBRATE GEN. GOWON AT 87

The Northern Governors Forum has felicitated with former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, as he marks his 87th birthday.

In a congratulatory message, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong said the special day brings with it great joy for the life of a great personality who served the nation with uncommon loyalty, simplicity, fairness and courage particularly during trying moments.

Lalong said the Forum is proud of General Gowon who in addition to his role of promoting peace and good governance around the world, remains a unifying factor and consistently mobilised prayers for the peace, progress and development of Nigeria.

He said Gen. Gowon believes in the unity and diversity of Nigeria and has done all within his power to ensure that the nation remains a prosperous, indivisible and progressive environment for people to realise their potentials irrespective of their backgrounds.

Lalong also appreciated the former Nigerian leader for standing up for the truth and supporting various governments through quality counsel and advocacy for social justice.

He also commends the fomer Head of State for making it a duty to reach out to the less privileged in society through his Yakubu Gowon Foundation which has carried out several interventions particularly in healthcare delivery, peace building and other critical areas.

While wishing him many more years of good health, peace and tranquility, Governor Lalong urged him not to relent in offering his wisdom and experience at all times as the Northern Governors Forum and Nigeria at large rely on it for good governance.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum.
19th October 2021.

NORTHERN GOVERNORS GREET MUSLIMS AT EID-EL MAULUD: CHARGE THEM TO BE LIVE IN LOVE

Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong has congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria as they join their counterparts worldwide to  mark this year’s Eid-el Maulud .

The Governor in a message on behalf of his colleagues to commemorate the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, said the special occasion brings to remembrance the teachings of the Holy Prophet who emphasized love, forgiveness, peaceful coexistence and humility among others.

He said the failure of humanity to practice love is what has given rise to selfishness, violence, intolerance, religious bigotry, ethnic hatred, corruption, high crime rate and unimaginable level of wickedness that is prevalent in various forms.

Lalong said this celebration should be used as a moment for reflection and reconsideration of the fortunes of the nation which can be changed if all Muslims live their lives according to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as contained in the Holy Qur’an.

He said Nigeria is in dire need of inter-religous harmony and dialogue, practical faith based conduct as well as truthful lifestyles that unite people and enhances their ability to experience and share love with one another irrespective of their faiths, education, economic status and ethnicity.

While wishing the Muslim community a successful celebration, Governor Lalong assured them that the Northern Governors Forum will continue to work hard in promoting peace, tolerance, national unity and religious harmony particularly in the present circumstances where the nation is in need of a common front to overcome, corruption, insurgency, fight poverty and accelerate development.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State & Chairman, Northern Governors Forum.
19th October 2021

SHARUBUTU SHOWERS ACCOLADES ON GBONG GWOM AT 70.

The Executive Secretary Agricultural Research Council Of Nigeria Prof. G H Sharubutu showers torrential accolades on His Majesty Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba as a symbol of peace and unity on the Plateau on the celebration to mark his 70th birthday.

Sharubutu who describes the monarch as the father to all Plateau State indigenes, congratulates him as he attains 70 of prosperous years. He says Da Gyang Buba has done tremendously well in bringing together the traditional institution as one entity capable of uniting the people of the state irrespective of their religion or tribal affiliation. He also describes him as a complete gentleman who doesn’t tolerate tribalism, corruption and injustice.

Prof. Sharubutu hails the monarch and the Plateau State council of chiefs for their total support to the rescue administration towards fighting against the lingering insecurity and other social vices on the Plateau.

He also describes the monarch as a true Nigerian who served his country in different capacities before retiring as civil servant. He said, Gbong Gwom became a traditional ruler and the chairman Plateau State council of chiefs to contribute in making Plateau a peaceful state . And he is a leader whose desire always, is to see the existence of Nigeria as one indivisible country. The Executive Secretary prays to God Almighty to grant the traditional ruler many more fruitful and prosperous years ahead

The Gbong Gwom thereafter bestowed traditional titles on some individuals who have immensely contributed to the development of Plateau State and Nigeria at large. They include Mr. Austin Pam Dalyop (Galadiman Jos) Engr. Jang Chuwang Tanko (Jarman Jos), Alh Mansur Nakande (Makaman Jos), Chief (Dr) Felix Ezeanoche ( Mutawallen Jos) Da Toma Chuwang Minti (Ngwom Nkanang) Da Michael Gyang Pam (Sarkin Pada), Da Choji Zang Tott (Talban Jos), Mrs. Felicia Chomo Sodipe (Jakadiyan Jos), Mrs. Sarah Dagah (De Sele Berom), as well as Mallam Yakubu Ibn Mohammed DG NTA, a childhood friend of the Gbong Gwom who was given the title of Tafidan Jos.

Your Royal Highness Sir, may your reign be more fruitful and impactful.