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
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.
Director General of the Industrial Training Fund ITF Sir Joseph Ari on Monday said reading is a critical tool of empowerment.
He also stressed the need for all staff of ITF to engage themselves to imbibe reading culture.
Ari made this known while speaking at the ITF 14th Library week held at the headquarters in Jos. “In the ITF, the first Library Week was organised in 2007 and was aimed at boosting the reading culture in the ITF staff and other users. Since then, the event has been organised every year, leading to marked increment in the patronage of its numerous services, he added .
Represented by Dickson Onuoha ,the Director Information and Communication of the fund ,Ari said “I am very delighted to be here for the 14th edition of the ITF Library Week, which is an important activity on the Fund’s annual calendar that affords us the platform to celebrate the invaluable role of libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming societies.
In his words ” What we are celebrating today, dates back to 1958, when the American Library Association (ALA) organised the first library week. “
He further said that the decision to organise the Library week by the Association was premised on the fact that fewer people were spending money on books, and devoting more time to television and radio shows.
Ari also added that this year, the ITF Library Week with the theme: Library Matters: Building a Reading Culture, is in furtherance of our continued efforts to ensure well rounded staff that are mentally and intellectually prepared to drive the achievement of our onerous mandate.
“As you may be aware, the ITF Library offers an array of services and opportunities for knowledge growth within our community because it contains a wide range of books on various subject matters for diverse readers, and is open not only to staff and their children/wards but to members of the general public desirous of taking advantage of its immense resources. “
The question may be asked; why the emphasis on building a reading culture? Why do libraries matter? For us, the answer is simple; as the leading Human Resource Development Organisation in Nigeria, with the wide ranging mandate to provide, promote and encourage the acquisition of skills, we are expected to be ahead of the field in the discovery of new and trending skills, information and knowledge. For us therefore, knowledge creation is a sine qua non.
It is often said that, “You cannot give what you don’t have.” Therefore, for the ITF to sustain the momentum of growth, increasing relevance and its positioning as a leader in the ever changing and fast-paced knowledge economy in Nigeria, we must embrace and imbibe a strong reading culture otherwise, our vision of aspiring to be among the best in the world will not be fully realized.
This is because organisations that embrace a reading culture build creative and innovative teams that set the tone for development in their sector. In addition, a reading Organisation is basically a learning Organisation that will remain ever relevant because they are able to adapt to any change in the environment that is occasioned by either technology or policies of Government.
He stressed that reading is not only for organizational growth alone but also for individual benefit as it aids in developing the individual’s thoughts, cognitive mental stimulation and brain exercising, vocabulary and knowledge expansion, stress and tension relief and helps with depression and dysthymia amongst others.
Ari called on citizens to visit the library and pick a book and read. I implore you to also make reading part of your daily life; Make a plan read a book a month and by the end of the year, you would have read twelve books.
“We have a library that can boast of being one of the best on the Plateau State. I urge you to visit our library and I assure you that you will find interesting books and other educational resource that will be worth your while”, he further stressed .
WEDDING RECEPTION OF BAPYIBI JOB; HON GAGDI CALLS ON THE COUPLE TO SET THE FOUNDATION OF THEIR HOME ON PATIENCE, LOVE AND TOLERANCE.
Despite the tight engagement of Rt Hon. Gagdi due to the state congress of the APC yesterday, Saturday 16th October 2021; for the love and premium the member have for his constituents, made out time to attend the wedding reception of Mr Bapyibi Jobguyson at Zumji Event Centre Jos.
The lawmaker admonished the couple to build their home with love, tolerance and patience serving as the cornerstone.
He reiterated his commitment towards giving his utmost best to the development of the constituency and the constituents as he won’t relent in his people-centric dispositions of representation.
The father of the groom Engr. Job Bungsgyakman shows his appreciation to Hon Gagdi’s leadership style of carrying all his constituents along irrespective of tribe or religion.
From the wedding reception, Hon Gagdi heeded straight to Crest Hotel, the venue of the party’s state congress which as a loyal and obedient party man participated in the process of getting a state leadership for the party from the start to finish.
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO THE NEW PLATEAU APC EXCO FROM RT HON. YUSUF ADAMU GAGDI
The peaceful conduct of APC congresses in Plateau State, which climaxed with the emergence of the Rufus Bature led Executive Committee was a clear indication of the party’s to retain power in Plateau State beyond 2023.
While extending my warmest felicitations to Hon. Rufus Bature and his EXCO, may I reiterate that the choice of the incoming party chairman to pilot affairs of the party at this transition period is the best thing that happens to the party in the state, giving the pedigree of the chairman and his enviable antecedents.
Having worked with him during the first tenure of Lalong administration when he was the SSG, while I was Deputy Speaker of the state legislature, I have known him well enough to vouch for his sterling leadership credentials.
With his role as the DG of the Rescue Campaign Organization that wrestled power from the then ruling PDP to install the present administration, and his robust leadership as minority leader of the state legislature, when I was one of the aides to the then Deputy Speaker, the late Zumunta Musa of blessed memory, I can attest to his unquestionable leadership prowess; which he will bring to bare in galvanizing fortunes of the APC in Plateau State for a greater victory in the coming general elections.
As you brace up to assume the mantle of leadership of our great party, I enjoin you to exhibit high sense of responsibility in the discharge of your duties and lead with the fear of God.
You have the assurance of my unalloyed loyalty and dedication to help you succeed in the task ahead.
Once again, congratulations and best wishes in your new responsibilities!
Signed: Rt Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, (Dan Malikin Kanam), Member representing PKK and Chairman House Committee on Navy.
Governor Simon Bako Lalong has described the Gbong Gwom Jos, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba as a patriotic leader whose passion for peace, justice and unity has assisted in the substantial restoration of peace and tranquility in Plateau State and clearly reflects in his conduct and utterances over the years.
Governor Lalong while speaking at a reception to mark the 70th birthday of the monarch in Jos, said the Royal Father has not only demonstrated consistency in his advocacy and creation of conducive environment for peaceful coexistence and economic prosperity of Plateau State, but that of the entire nation.
Lalong said the life story of Da Jacob Gyang Buba has been characterized by persistence, patience, diligence, honesty and philanthropy both in his professional career and Royal capacity.
He said as the Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs, the Gbong Gwom has continued to mobilise the Royal Institution towards supporting the Rescue Administration in restoring peace and security in the State. Such efforts he said have assisted the Government to consolidate on its achievements in various sectors.
In their goodwill messages, Former Governor Dara Janah Jang, Long Goemai Miskom Martin Shaldas III, and others, said the celebrant is a man of his words who does not condone injustice, corruption and violence in any form. This according to them has stood him out as a man of principle and courage.
In his response, His Royal Majesty the Gbong Gwom Jos Da Jacob Gyang Buba appreciated the show of love demonstrated by his family, friends, well wishers, people of Berom land, Plateau State and Nigeria at large, saying he is humbled by the words of affirmation and encouragement.
He decried the level of insecurity, intolerance and disharmony that has denied the country and Plateau State in particular the stability for growth and development. He said this is most unfortunate because the society has abandoned timeless values and has been raising children that are confused on the right path to a greater society.
He thanked Governor Lalong for carrying along the Traditional Institution and working for peace and reconciliation, a development he said he will continue to support and promote.
The Gbong thereafter bestowed traditional titles on 10 individuals who have contributed immensely 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.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 17th October 2021
ALH. (DR) DANLADI GARBA PASALI, CONGRATULATE PLATEAU STATE APC FAMILY FOR A SUCCESSFUL STATE CONGRESS YESTERDAY.
On behalf of we the BUHARI CAMPAIGN ORGANIZATION (BCO) have loudly acknowledged the good works of Rescue Captain & His loyal Deputy and the good people of our dear party during the just concluded state Congress and have rewarded some of our party faithful with more work during the state Congress which Hon. Rufus Bature emerged as the State party Chairman. I have no doubt the people of PLATEAU state through our party APC are yet to see the best of your Leadership qualities. We shall all get it right inshallah in 2023 with the caliber of highly respected personalities we choose to lead our dear party to the next level of governance.
Once more, Congratulations our new party leadership and the rescue team.
Signed Alhaji. (Dr) Danladi Garba Pasali National Coordinator, Buhari Campaign Organization
GOVERNOR LALONG PRAISES PLATEAU APC FAMILY, AS NEW STATE PARTY EXCO EMERGE
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says the All Progressives Congress family in Plateau State remains a beacon of democracy and the hope for the peace, progress and unity of the State and the nation at large.
Governor Lalong who spoke at the APC State Congress in Jos where members of the State Executive Committee were elected, said the level of maturity and seamless conduct demonstrated by members clearly shows the strength of the party in the State and the unity of its members.
Lalong said the peaceful conduct of the State Congress which was through consensus shows how committed the members are in galvanising all differences and working together for the common interest of the party.
Lalong said such unity of purpose has been responsible for the continous acceptance of the party and its consolidation in Plateau State, which accounted for the recent overwhelming victory of the APC in the recent Local Government elections and enable the party to win in all the 17 Local Government areas.
While urging the new State party Executives to work in synergy with other party officials at the Local Government, Ward and Unit levels, Governor Lalong emphasized the need for them to carry along all members and be fair, honest and transparent in all their dealings.
Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Idris Wase and other APC political leaders described the State Congress as yet another record breaker in the successes achieved by the party in the State.
They said this successful congress has clearly shown that the APC remains the biggest party in the State and across the nation with clear capacity for more victories in forthcoming elections. They urged members to come together and embrace reconciliation and patience in supporting the elected party officials to deliver on their mandate.
Responding on behalf of the newly elected State Exco, Chairman-elect Hon. Rufus Bature, immediate past Secretary to the Government of Plateau State and one time member of the State House of Assembly, expressed appreciation to the members and leaders of the party for electing them.
He said the fact that their election done through consensus without any challenges means that the party has fully evolved and is taking major strides in good governance, inclusivity and fairness to the citizens.
Bature specifically thanked Governor Lalong for giving the State the needed leadership that has endeared APC to the people and continued to give them hope. He said the party exco will support him and also carry along all members at all times and also avail them level playing field for aspiring to any position.
The election was conducted by the APC State Congress Committee set up by the national body and witnessed by INEC. The new Exco has 36 members.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press & Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State. 16th October 2021.
NDE DAVID VICTOR DIMKA fsi CONDOLES THE FAMILY OF MAJ. GENERAL ABRAHAM LUKA DUSU
The leader of DVD Movement, Nde David Victor Dimka fsi received with shock the news of the sudden demise of Maj. Gen. Abraham Luka Dusu, who until his journey to the great beyond was the Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Artillery, Kachia, Kaduna State.
Nde David Victor Dimka fsi says “This death has robbed Nigeria of one of its finest Generals whose dedication and commitment to duty and service to fatherland was exemplary.”
“The late General Dusu shall be greatly missed not only by his immediate family, the military, Barkin Ladi Local Government but the nation at large.”
Nde David Victor Dimka urged the family, the Berom nation, Plateau State, friends and associates to take solace in God who is the author and finisher of our lives.
May God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort his wife, children and the immediate family. Amen.
Freelance Reporters 