Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has congratulated Nigerians for accepting democracy as the best model of governance in the nation and called for its sustainability for the development and progress of the country.
Governor Mutfwang, in a statement in Jos to mark Democracy Day which was made available to Oracle Reporters described June 12 as a landmark moment for Nigeria:
“It was on that day in 1993 that Nigerians across ethnic, religious, and regional divides came together to vote, symbolizing a collective desire for democratic leadership.”
June 12, the Governor said, also honours the memory of the 1993 Presidential elections which were regarded as the freest and fairest in the country’s history.
Mutfwang said democracy remains the best form of governance where the people have the power to decide who governs them.
“As we commemorate this day, we should also acknowledge the strides we have made in establishing democracy as Nigeria’s governance model.
” In that regard, political stakeholders must uphold fairness, equity, justice, and the rule of law in our electoral process.”Mutfwang stressed
He paid glowing tributes to the nation’s patriots who struggled, and even made the supreme sacrifice, for Nigeria to return to democratic rule, pointing out that through their relentless efforts, Nigeria has experienced 25 years of uninterrupted transformative leadership since the inception of the current democratic dispensation.
Governor Mutwang called on political leaders to prioritize the welfare and security of the people as well as work towards safeguarding the country’s unity.
He cknowledgied the security and economic hardships the citizens of Nigeria are going through and appealed for patience, pledging his administration’s commitment to transparent, accountable and inclusive governance.
In a significant move to aid conflict-affected communities, the Plateau State government has launched an extensive farming intervention. This initiative, facilitated through the Agricultural Service and Training Center and Marketing Limited (ASTC) under the Ministry of Agriculture, aims to cultivate 6,000 hectares of farmland across the state’s three senatorial districts.
The Plateau state Governor, Barr Caleb Mutfwang commissioned this mechanized farming intervention to address the severe disruption in farming activities caused by recent conflicts.
These conflicts have not only led to the destruction of farms but also instilled fear among farmers, exacerbating food shortages and driving up the prices of farm produce.
Plateau Govt Flags-off Cultivation of 6,000 Hectares of Farmland Across Displaced Farming Communities
Hon. Samson Ishaku Bugama, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources At the official flag-off event in Mangu Local Government, Hon. Samson Ishaku Bugama, emphasized the readiness of both ASTC’s staff and equipment.
“Today marks the beginning of a comprehensive engagement in the field,” he stated. “The strategy is to provide mechanization services to displaced communities and help them return to their livelihoods.”
The intervention includes the provision of seeds to ensure bumper harvests and focuses primarily on displaced communities. However, the scope may extend to other areas as resources allow.
“Our major goal is to resettle displaced communities back into their farming activities,” Bugama added.
To ensure the safety of farmlands, the initiative will utilize agro-rangers and local self-help groups for early warning signals.
Bugama assured that the government would implement a monitoring system, including the use of drones, to protect the investment and prevent incursions into the farms.
Addressing the high prices of food items, Bugama noted that the initiative would help increase food production in the state’s major food-producing belts.
“Governor Mutfwang is deeply concerned about the hunger problem, and this intervention is a deliberate effort to boost food production and reduce prices,
Dr. Susan Bentu, the Managing Director and CEO of ASTC
“For the communities, these services and seeds are provided free of charge.”
Dr. Susan Bentu, the Managing Director and CEO of ASTC,on her part ,expressed gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for approving the mechanized cultivation intervention.
She detailed that the four-weeks cultivation would cover areas in the Northern, Central, and Southern Zones of Plateau State, with specific focus on maize, potatoes, and rice, depending on the zone.
Bentu highlighted ASTC’s commitment to supporting farmers across Plateau State. “ASTC is a household name not just in Plateau State but in Nigeria. We are dedicated to assisting farmers, whether in rain-fed or dry seasons,” she said. “This intervention program is entirely free for the communities, with the state government covering all costs.”
The cultivation which will last for about 4 weeks will see ASTC cultivating in areas of the Plateau Northern Zone to include; Jol (Riyom)/sho (B/Ladi), Wereng & Kwi (Riyom), Rim & Bachit (Riyom), Vom -Chol (Jos South), Jos East. and BARC FARMS.
then in the Central Zone will cover; Tam & Alogom (Mangu), Vodni & Pushit/Pushit Dam (Mangu), Changal & kombili (Mangu), Washna & Larkas (Mangu), Longkat Irrigation Chip (Pankshin), Mabel & Butura ( Bokkos) Manguna and Mbar communities. while that of the Southern Zone will include areas of Wase River, Shendam Dam, Jenta Yelwa, Shimangkar, Pandam/ Sabon Gida (Namu) and Gidan Adamu
The intervention will involve three teams operating across the state, ensuring that the 6,000 hectares target is met. Bentu assured that ASTC’s day-to-day functions would continue alongside this special assignment. “Our vision is to raise self-sufficient farmers, financially stable and empowered, contributing to the state’s food security and economic stability,” she affirmed.
Speaker House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajjudeen Abbas has described member House of Representatives representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency at House of Representatives Hon Daniel Asama as a very resourceful lawmaker who has contributed to the business of law making at the green Chambers since he came into office.
Tajudden stated this on Sunday in Jos at a well attended Church thanksgiving Service by Reps member Hon Daniel Asama .
The House of Representatives speaker Tajudden Abbas was represented at the event by Hon Ishaya Lalu.
He congratulated the celebrant Hon. Asama describing him as a young person with passion and commitment for service.
The immediate past governor of Plateau state Senator Simon Lalong on his part urged Hon Asama to use every opportunity he has to make a mark not only within his Constituency, but in Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
Aso speaking, former Governor of Plateau State Chief Joshua Dariye congratulated the celebrant and asked him to always keep in touch with the people on whose behalf he is functioning in Abuja.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang also congratulated Hon. Asama and emphasized the need for people oriented service as a way of building a greater Plateau.
Preaching at the colourful event ECWA General Secretary Rev. Ayuba Asheshe in a sermon read from 1 Samuel 1 stressed that leadership is ordained by God as an act of service and not personal aggrandisement.
While thanking God for the opportunity given him to serve, the celebrant Hon. Asama said he owes all to God and various people who have assisted him in various ways and mentored him in politics over the years.
He specially thanked his constituents for reposing their confidence in him, assuring that he will not let them down, but serve to the best of his ability. Politicians, Clerics and well wishers of Asama graced the epoch making event.
Speaker House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajjudeen Abbas has described member House of Representatives representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency at House of Representatives Hon Daniel Asama as a very resourceful lawmaker who has contributed to the business of law making at the green Chambers since he came into office.
Tajudden stated this on Sunday in Jos at a well attended Church thanksgiving Service by Reps member Hon Daniel Asama .
The House of Representatives speaker Tajudden Abbas was represented at the event by Hon Ishaya Lalu.
He specially thanked his constituents for reposing their confidence in him, assuring that he will not let them down, but serve to the best of his ability. Politicians, Clerics and well wishers of Asama graced the epoch making event.
He congratulated the celebrant Hon. Asama describing him as a young person with passion and commitment for service.
The immediate past governor of Plateau state Senator Simon Lalong on his part urged Hon Asama to use every opportunity he has to make a mark not only within his Constituency, but in Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
Aso speaking, former Governor of Plateau State Chief Joshua Dariye congratulated the celebrant and asked him to always keep in touch with the people on whose behalf he is functioning in Abuja.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang also congratulated Hon. Asama and emphasized the need for people oriented service as a way of building a greater Plateau.
Preaching at the colourful event ECWA General Secretary Rev. Ayuba Asheshe in a sermon read from 1 Samuel 1 stressed that leadership is ordained by God as an act of service and not personal aggrandisement.
While thanking God for the opportunity given him to serve, the celebrant Hon. Asama said he owes all to God and various people who have assisted him in various ways and mentored him in politics over the years.
Industrial Training Fund Jos Area Office has graduated 146 of National Economic Recovery Growth Program (NERGP) in Plateau state.
The program is under the technical and vocational Education and Training (TVET) component which Seeks to provide Nigerians with skills and knowledge under the National vocational qualification (NVQ) frawork which makes them employable or self reliant in a highly competitive economy.
Speaking at the event, the Jos area Manager of Industrial Training Fund Mallam Wilfred Mukan said ITF as foremost in providing in providing requisite skills and knowledge,is providing services within the best global practices to Nigeria teaming population.
He stressed that ITF is professionally implementing the national economic recovery growth Program in six trades such as Plumbing and Pipe Fitting, Carpentry, Tiling, Poultry farming, Crop production and Beauty care to a total of 146 participants who went through two months of practical and hands on training and one month of internship to practice what they have learnt.
Mukan added that in the course of the training,the trainees were taken through the Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP) which equips them With the stages and what is needed in starting businesses of their own.
He added that all the trainees have been assessed and that appropriate certification would be issued out to them to further Enhance their participation in the economic space in the country
Mukan charged graduating trainees to go out and take opportunity of the great market in the country and contribute their quota in its economic growth and transformation.
He equally warned them not to sell off their start-ups packs, saying a lot has been invested in them.
Mukan commended the Director General and Chief executive of Industrial Training Fund Dr Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun for providing the enabling environment for this laudable Program to succeed.
The DG ITF was represented at the event by Acting Director technical and vocational skills training department of ITF Mallam Ibrahim Usman Ganu.
Attai Audu Jos Plateau state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affair Comrade Ephraim Usman has constructed blocks of classrooms in the Nangar and Garshe communities of Kanam local government area for his people.
Plateau state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affair Comrade Ephraim Usman has constructed blocks of classrooms in the Nangar and Garshe communities of Kanam local government area for his people.
Usman initiative was aimed at improving the educational standards in the benefitting communities and to providing conducive learning environment for the children of the locality .
The gesture he said was to fulfill part of his campaign promises to his people.
The classroom blocks were established as the first formal educational structures in these communities, replacing the makeshift learning spaces that were previously used.
This groundbreaking move was praised by various personalities in the state, including the Mutfwang family and some local government TIC chairmen who attended the dedication ceremony.
The classrooms were dedicated to late individuals in the community and one in memory of late Kaka Briskila Mutfwang in Garshe and the other in memory of late Mama Naomi Santali Usman, the mother of Comrade Hon. Epriam Usman in Nangar.
These structures mark the first formal educational buildings in the communities, replacing makeshift learning spaces that were previously used, such as under trees or in neighbors’ compounds
The Project executor Comrade Usman while Speaking at the event, expressed his commitment towards enhancing educational opportunities and stressed the importance of quality education in combatting crime and securing a better future for the next generation.
Usman hinted that his initiative was in with the vision of Plateau Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s administration resolve to provide conducive learning environment and eradicate poverty through quality education for citizens of Plateau state.
At the event Comrade Chief Hon. Usman handed over the classroom blocks to the Mutfwang family, who then passed them on to the Chairman of SUBEB, Plateau State.
He urged SUBEB to consider building additional classrooms to aid learning in the communities and pledged to provide uniforms and books for the students.
Dr. Samuel Mutfwang on his part,expressed his gratitude on behalf of his family for the classroom block dedicated to late Kaka Briskila Mutfwang and noted the significance of the gift in enhancing education in the community.
He called on the community to take care of the structures and emphasized the importance of education for their children.
The Chairman of SUBEB in the state, Hon. Sunday Samuel Amuna on his part , pledged to equip the classrooms with high-quality furniture and warned against the misuse of government school facilities.
He encouraged the communities to take ownership of the project and promised further support from the government if the structures and furniture were protected.
The headmaster of the school in Garshe, Mr. Habib Yusuf Aliyu, expressed gratitude for the new classrooms and highlighted their positive impact on learning.
The ALGON Chairman of Plateau State, Hon. Hamisu Anani, and the Special Adviser to the Governor in Intergovernmental Affairs, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Kanam, praised Usman for the initiative and urged the communities to safeguard the classroom blocks for the benefit of future generations.
He commended Chief Usman for his dedication to improving education in Kanam.
DAVID PHILEMON Ministries International (DPMI) and Church on Fire International (COFI) has launched an empowerment project in Jos aimed at fostering economic independence within the community.
This initiative was launched at Church on Fire International in Faringada, Jos, Plateau State.
The Project underscores the organizations’ commitment to their social responsibility.
As part of this project, a full laundry business start-up kit was provided, including a washing machine, three pressing irons, a refrigerator, and a fully furnished shop with rent paid for two years.
This gesture marks a significant step in supporting local entrepreneurship and community development.
At the launch,Pastor Reuben King Ahmed highlighted the motivations behind this charitable act.
“To the glory of God, our spiritual father, Apostle Dr. David Philemon, has always championed the act of love and generosity.
“This empowerment project is a manifestation of our commission’s core values—wiping away tears and bringing joy to mankind,” he said.”
Also Speaking at the event Apostle Joseph Rims, Vice Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Plateau State chapter, spoke on behalf of the PFN Chairman.
He encouraged other churches and ministries to emulate this example, emphasizing the dual mission of the gospel to redeem souls and transform lives.
“What we witnessed here today is a reflection of Jesus’ teachings—doing good and touching lives. This act of kindness not only aids individuals but also enhances the spread of the gospel,” he stated.
The beneficiary, Mr. Igomu Christian, expressed his gratitude and excitement.
“I am deeply blessed by this gesture. Initially, I only asked for a washing machine, but Apostle Dr. David Philemon went beyond that by providing a fully set-up business and even a deep freezer for my wife to sell soft drinks. This empowerment will enable me to become an employer and mentor others, contributing positively to the economy,” he said.
Mr. Christian also urged the government to take a cue from this initiative, emphasizing the importance of practical support over mere policy declarations.
“Implementing small, impactful projects like this can significantly enhance the economy and improve lives,” he added.
This empowerment project by DAVID PHILEMON Ministries International and Church on Fire International serves as a beacon of hope and a model for community-focused development efforts.
The Province 4 of Region 8, Redeemed Christians Church of God (RCCG), Plateau State, has, through its Christians Social Responsibility (CSR) Project, constructed a motorised borehole and donated it free to the its host community, Algadama-Rock Haven Jos.
This was commissioned by the Pastor in charged RCCG Province 4 of Region 8, All Saints Parish Provincial Headquarters Parish 21 Utan Lane Algadama-Rock Haven Jos, Pastor Samuel Akintade, on behalf of the General Overseer, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, to cushion the water problem residents around the axis faced.
Commissioning the project, the Pastor in-Charge of Province 4 said, “this community has water problem and they were instructed by the our Father in the Lord, the General Overseer, Pastor E. A. Adeboye, to solve the water problem of this community.
“We have an office by appointment known as, the Christians Social Responsibility (CSR) that is to impact the community and it was the Committee that came together to build a borehole for this community because this is an area that have water problem.
“By the grace of God, it is a free project and the water is free for the community. We are not selling or taking any Kobo from anybody. So, it is opened to the public by the grace of God to impact there lives”, he assured.
Akintade, disclosed further that, the distribution of the water would be regulated by four-five days in a week and it would be opened twice a day (mornings & evenings).
On his part, the Assistant Pastor in-Charge of the Province’s Christians Social Responsibility (CSR), James Daniel Adekunle Gabriel, said, “we got this vision out of the need that we saw in the community that there is great scarcity of water and since CSR’s mandate is touching lives, we decided to do so”.
Christian Social Responsibility ( CSR )’s Directorate of the RCCG was basically carved out to impact lives through the church and it has last month commissioned same at the Hallelujah Parish and would be a continuous support project.
Responding on behalf of the community, the community leader of Algadama Rock Haven Jos, Da Stephen Mancha, thanked the church for this gesture saying, “I am the most happiest person because of this wonderful project that the church has brought it to this community and promised to tell others that RCCG here is a pace setter.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Rt. Rev. Professor Msg Cletus Gotan, has emphasized the need for unity in Nigeria, stating that it is essential for the country’s progress.
Speaking at a meeting with the NCPC board, management, state pilgrimage leaders, and Christian pilgrimage operators in Nazareth, Israel, on May 31, 2024, Gotan stressed that unity is vital for championing the cause of unity in the country.
He referenced John 17:20-21, emphasizing Jesus’ teachings on Christian unity and encouraging Christian leaders to emulate this by strengthening unity among themselves.
Gotan expressed optimism that God would grant the NCPC board the grace for excellent leadership and emphasized the importance of selflessness.
“The gain of our nation cannot be known without unity,” Gotan said.
“In NCPC, you and I have the responsibility to worship together, so that truth and love should continue to bind us together.”
He affirmed that Christianity has a strong tradition of pilgrimage and highlighted the importance of reconnecting with God and learning about the history of Christianity.
The Nigerian Ambassador to Israel, Her Excellency, Mrs. Agatha Afoekelu, welcomed the group and acknowledged the significance of pilgrimage in Christianity.
She commended the leadership of Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of NCPC, and emphasized the need for pilgrims to conduct themselves properly and avoid negative tendencies.
“Pilgrimage is not a jamboree, but a serious spiritual exercise,”
Afoekelu said. “The holy land is holy and will continue to be holy.”
She disclosed that the Nigerian Embassy is working closely with Israel’s Ministry of Interior to ensure the comfort and security of Nigerian pilgrims.
Bishop Adegbite on his part,expressed gratitude for the retreat, which he said was conceptualized by Christian Pilgrimage Operators.
He highlighted the transformation in NCPC’s image since his appointment and assured that the Commission would ensure everyone’s satisfaction.
“We are one family, and we will leave a remarkable mark behind,” Adegbite said.
“This retreat is a period of spiritual rejuvenation, and we are here to seek the face of God.”
Plateau State Ministry of Agricuture and Rural Resources in conjunction with Plateau Agricultural Development Program (PADP) have officially launched 2024 Agric Input distribution of farm seeds to farming groups in the state aimed at generating bumper harvest this farming season across the Plateau state.
The benefitting groups were among others Rice farmers association, Wheat farmers association, Maize farmers association North central, Women in Agricuture, Youth for Agriculture in Plateau and others etc.
Speaking at the event which was launched at the Headquarters of PADP in Jos, Governor, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau state in his address stressed the importance of collaboration for successful farming on the Plateau this cropping season.
According to him, agriculture has strategic importance to the state’s economy.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting farmers with high-quality seeds to ensure sustainable agricultural growth and food security.
Represented by the Commissioner for Land and Surveys, Barr.Peter Nyam Gai, at the official flag-off of the high-quality seed distribution program to farmers across the state, the governor highlighted the significance of the carefully selected seeds for the farming season.
‘These seeds have been carefully chosen to ensure successful farming.
He said With the right seeds, proper watering, and adequate resources, our farmers can expect a fruitful harvest,” he said
Gov mutfwang expressed solidarity with Plateau farmers, promising necessary support for a successful farming season.
He also commended the Commissioner for Agriculture for expanding participation in the agricultural sector, emphasizing its commercial potential and urging responsible use of government-provided inputs.
“The way Plateau is progressing in agriculture, it will be a misfortune to even seek a government job because agriculture is commercialized and it’s going to put money in our pockets. We have never had it this good on the Plateau. The time to do more is now.” He emphasized.
Earlier ,Commissioner for Agriculture, Samson Ishaku Bugama, lauded the state government’s dedication to advancing agriculture, highlighting its pivotal role in economic development.
“Agriculture and farmers are the fulcrum from which we can develop our economy and that is why we are also mainstreaming gender in our interventions, ensuring both men and women are actively involved in agriculture.” He said
Hon. Bugama also announced initiatives such as tilling 8,000 hectares in crisis-affected communities and training 340 youths on precision agriculture at CSS Farms to enhance agricultural activities and empower the youth.
Similarly ,Mr. Ishiaku Samaila Jilemsam, Programme Manager of the Plateau Agricultural Development Programme (PADP),on his part stressed the critical role of high-quality seeds for farmers, cautioning against declining yields due to traditional seed-saving methods.
He encouraged farmers to purchase professionally produced seeds and outlined collaborations with organizations like Rosemary Seeds and East West Seeds.
Jilemsam also highlighted the distribution of maize, rice, wheat seeds, and upcoming potato seeds, alongside efforts to promote urban agriculture.
“We want our farmers to get used to buying seeds, not setting aside seeds. There are professionals such as Seeds and East West Seeds dedicated to producing these seeds. Using those kinds of seeds will give you the benefits you want.”he noted.
Also, CEO of Rosemary Seed Company, Mr. Nathaniel Y. Longmut, emphasized the critical role of high-quality seeds in crop production, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to provide seeds to local farmers.
He commended the state government for procuring high-yielding seed varieties, aiming to boost local farmers’ production capacity and elevate the state’s food production output.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Resources in collaboration with the Plateau Agricultural Development Programme (PADP), saw participation from various stakeholders including Farmers Associations, security agencies, and financial institutions in the state.
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