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Author: Peter Amine

  • Plateau govt. donates tractor to Qua’an Pan LGA to boost farming 

    Plateau govt. donates tractor to Qua’an Pan LGA to boost farming
    Tractor
    By Peter Amine
    Jos, June 29, 2024 (NAN), The Plateau Government, through the Agricultural Services and Training Centre (ASTC), has donated a tractor to Qua’an Pan Local Government Area to boost farming in the area.
    Mr Luka Dakul, Mangu Site ASTC Manager, while handing over the tractor to Mr Christopher Manship, Chairman, Transition Implementation Committee, Qua’an Pan LGA on Saturday in Jos, said the gesture would boost food sufficiency.
    Dakul restated the state government’s commitment to revive the state economy through agriculture and reposition Plateau as the home of peace and tourism.
    The manager further said that the tractor would help farmers cultivate their farms effortlessly as a mesaure  to enhance food security in the state.
    He expressed confidence that the partnership between the state government and ASTC would encourage robust and sustainable economic growth through farming.
    Manship, who received the tractor on behalf of the local government, thanked Gov. Caleb Mutfwang and ASTC for the laudable initiative.
    The chairman assured the people that his administration would ensure that the tractor reached the farmers directly to revive agriculture in the local government.
    He restated  the local government’s resolve to work with relevant partners to improve the well-being of the people of Qua’an Pan. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    PAT/YGA
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    Edited by Gabriel Yough

  • Mutfwang directs PLASIEC to conduct credible LG polls

     

    Election

    By Peter Amine

    Jos, June 27, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Caleb Mutfwang has directed the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission(PLASIEC), to conduct a credible and acceptable local government election, its Chairman, Mr Planji Cishak, said on Thursday in Jos.

    Cishak made the disclosure when he led officials of the commission on a courtesy visit on the Zonal Manager of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Jos Zone, Mrs Nyisom Dore.

    The chairman said that the governor, while inaugurating officials of the commission, told them to conduct elections that would be fair, credible, transparent and based on global best practices.

    He pledged to carry out the governor’s directive to ensure that the people’s choices counted in the third tier of government.

    According to him, the local government is the closest to the people at the grassroots, and the commission will do everything within its mandate to ensure that people’s wishes are respected.

    “Looking at Plateau with divergent interests, we know the seriousness of this assignment.

    “I am happy that the governor took his time to select the calibre of people seated here to carry out the assignments with every sense of responsibility.

    “We have pledged that we will not soil our names as we have a bright future ahead of us.

    “Towards this end, PLASIEC is conducting its needs assessment and operational activities before the declaration of the notice of election,” he said.

    The chairman solicited the support and collaboration of NAN to enable the commission to deliver on its mandate.

    He said that the visit was to demonstrate the seriousness and importance it attached to the role of the media.

    Dore, in her remarks, described NAN as a credible news content provider that many media organisations relied on.

    The zonal manager told the PLASIEC management that, as a federal government agency, NAN would always ensure fairness and balance in its reports.

    “I want to assure you of something – when you talk to NAN, you talk to all.

    “Your commission, particularly, is a sensitive one that even a mistake in spelling of a word or a single missing figure, can cause serious havoc.

    “We know the challenges in Plateau. We recognise the sensitive nature of this state. I pledge to you that NAN will do everything within its power to ensure that you succeed.

    “We shall ensure that the information the public receives is accurate, and no one is misinformed.

    “We have our core mandate, our core objectives, and our style. People who subscribe to us are always quick to pick our stories.

    “That’s because they know its credibility. They know that we must have done our homework and due diligence,” she stated.

    Dore pledged the support and cooperation of NAN in ensuring that elections in Plateau met global standards and the expectations of the Plateau people. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    PAT/DOR/ETS

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    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore and Ephraims Sheyin

  • Plateau govt., GIZ launch policy to address MSMEs challenges 

    Plateau govt., GIZ launch policy to address MSMEs challenges
    Policy
    By Peter Amine
    Jos, June 25, 2024 (NAN) The Plateau Government, in partnership with the German International Corporation (GIZ), has launched the Micro, Small, and Media Enterprises (MSMEs) Policy to address MSMEs challenges and boost the state’s economy.
    Governor Caleb Mutfwang, at the launch of the  policy on Tuesday in Jos, said the feat marked, not only a first for the state but also  a pioneering effort across Nigeria.
    Mutfwang, who was represented by Mr Samuel Jatau, Secretary to the Government of the State, said that as the first state to domesticate the policy, Plateau was  setting a precedence for economic innovation and empowerment.
    The governor said that he was aware of the vital role that MSMEs play in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering innovation.
    He stated that MSMEs were the heartbeat of the state local economy, and their success was critical to the overall prosperity of Plateau.
    Mutfwang stated that the launch of the MSME Policy was a testament to our commitment to creating a conducive environment for these enterprises to thrive.
    “This policy is designed to address the unique challenges faced by MSMEs and to unlock their full potential, thereby significantly contributing to the socio-economic development of Plateau.
    “The MSME Policy we are launching today is a comprehensive framework that includes several key initiatives such as enhanced access to finance, capacity building, and infrastructure development to support MSMEs.
    “Others include regulatory ease of doing business, creation of market access for MSMEs, as well as encouraging adoption of innovative practices and leveraging technology, which are central to our policy.
    “These initiatives are designed to create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures the growth and sustainability of MSMEs on the Plateau.
    “In addition to the MSME policy, the Plateau Government has taken further steps to foster a thriving business environment by also inaugurating the Ease of Doing Business Council, which includes private and public sector stakeholders as members,” he added.
    According to him, the council is tasked with, among other things, identifying and addressing barriers to business operations, streamlining regulatory processes, and enhancing the overall business climate in the state.
    Mutfwang added that the initiative had led to improved coordination among government entities, ensuring that businesses could navigate regulatory requirements more efficiently, ensuring streamlined processes, and ensuring a robust feed mechanism.
    The governor stressed that the council provided a platform for business owners to voice their concerns and receive timely resolutions, fostering a more responsive and supportive government.
    He pointed out that the policy would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts and support of several key stakeholders, most especially GIZ SEDIN.
    Mutfwang stated that their esteemed partners at GIZ Sedin have been instrumental in the development of the policy.
    The General Manager, Plateau Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (PLASMIDA), Mr Bomkam Wuyep, commended the resilience and tenacity of our MSMEs on the Plateau.
    Wuyep said that their entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and perseverance were the lifeblood of our economy.
    The D-G added that the policy was a testament to their hard work and a commitment to providing them with the support and opportunities they needed to flourish.
    While  emphasising  that the policy represented  stakeholders collective resolve to build a more prosperous and sustainable future for all the D-G urged the people to harness the full potential of the  policy to drive growth, create jobs, and enhance their quality of life.
    Mr Akinropo Omoware, GIZ Head of Component, said that one of the biggest challenges for Nigeria was that the country only ran  policies  on short terms.
    Omoware said that Nigerians do not plan on long terms; they plan based on political circles, hence the many abandoned projects.
    He said that the MSMEs policy was a long-term plan deliberately designed to boost and sustain private businesses in the state.
    “We are not at the finish line; after the launch of the policy today, the next step is implementation. If not implemented, we will achieve nothing.
    “We need to come back here in the next year and assess to see whether these efforts were successful.
    “In the policy, we identified what we needed to achieve in the next year, and we will keep tabs to ensure that it is achieved.
    “This plan was developed by all MSMEs stakeholders, and the participants must own a copy and ensure its implementation,” he said.
    Mr Dauda Gashi, Executive Director, Plateau Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture (PLACCIMA), said in a goodwill message that the organised private sector would make good use of the policy.
    Gashi appreciated Plateau and GIZ for their support of the private sector.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the launch included a technical session with group discussions on the implementation strategies of the policy.
    The aim of the group discussions was to develop an implementation plan. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    PAT/YGA
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    Edited by Gabriel Yough

  • Rotary executes N68m worth of impactful projects in Plateau

    Rotary executes N68m worth of impactful projects in Plateau

    Projects

    By Peter Amine

    Jos, June 22, 2024 (NAN) The Rotary Club of Jos Central, has executed 17 impactful projects valued at N68 million.

    Mr Kayode Fasua, the club’s outgoing president, who made the disclosure on Friday evening, at a dinner/award night, said that the projects, spread across Plateau, were in line with Rotary International’s seven areas of priority.

    Fasua listed some of the projects executed to include the donation of a motorised solar-powered borehole to the Alheri community, and the donation of medical equipment to some selected secondary schools in Jos.

    The president added that under his leadership, the club distributed grinding machines to widows and wheelchairs to disabled persons.

    He further said that the club provided uniforms, sandals, socks, school bags, and shoes to 90 students from three primary schools.

    According to him, the club also donated 90 modern school desks (30 per school) to three primary schools and also provided 3,000 notebooks, with 1,000 going to each school.

    “Additionally, we planted 200 economic trees in Jos East to benefit the environment.

    “In addition to N14 million worth of projects, we executed a global grant project in partnership with the Rotary Club of Calgary, North Canada, and Rotary International.

    ”The project, worth N54 million Naira, was carried out in five communities across Plateau and Kaduna states.

    “We trained 10 youths in each community in brick molding technology to help rebuild their communities that were destroyed as a result of attacks.

    “We held a medical outreach in Tudun Wada, attending to over 600 inhabitants for various medical interventions, including complex gynecological procedures, thanks to Professor Ishaya Pam, former CMD of Jos University Teaching Hospital.

    “We visited internally displaced persons camps in Mangu, providing foodstuffs, sanitary pads, and clothing. We also erected a peace signboard in front of the local government,” he added.

    The outgoing president believed that he would be fondly remembered for a major leap in membership recruitment, stating that within one year, the club gained 29 new members.

    He pointed out that the feat was the largest recruitment in the entire district, spanning 26 states.

    Mr Mike Nwanoshiri, District Governor-Elect for District 9127, lauded the club president’s sterling leadership, which he said would be indelible in the history of the club and beyond.

    “However, remember that our work is far from over; there are challenges, needs to be met, and lives to be changed.

    “In our collective strength, we will continue to be the changemakers, the vision carriers, and the history makers in communities and beyond,” Nwanoshiri said.

    Mr Hilary Ezeadilieje, Assistant District Governor, appreciated all rotarians on the Plateau, saying that achievements would not have been possible without their unflinching support.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that different categories of awards were given to individuals who distinguished themselves during the rotary year. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    PAT/DOR
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    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Foundation pledges technical support, training for Plateau electoral body

    Foundation pledges technical support, training for Plateau electoral body

    Support

    By Peter Amine

    Jos, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), has pledged to give technical support and training to the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), to enhance the credibility of elections.

    IFES Country Director, Mr Seray Jah, made the disclosure on Thursday in Jos, when he led a team on a visit to the Chairman and members of staff of PLASIEC.

    Jah said that apart from the PLASIEC, the foundation was also providing similar support to five other State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), one per geopolitical zone.

    The country director stated that the goal of IFES was to support the institutions through technology, technical assistance, capacity building, and training, as well as the promotion of gender equity and inclusion.

    According to him, the approach aims to ensure that the commissons conduct more widely accepted elections, ultimately achieving near perfection.

    “We are supporting the SIECs through the funding of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) from the UK.

    “It is very important for a nation to build strong local government elections because they are closer to the people.

    “Having been involved in this process for a while, we, along with our donors and ourselves as IFES, want to see more credibility in the elections, more trust by the voters, and more proactive engagement by stakeholders with the commission.

    “We also want to see more political willingness by the governments that oversee the SIECs. Achieving these goals would enhance not only the elections but also local development.

    “If people trust the elected officials, they are more likely to believe in them, which could lead to better governance,” he stated.

    Jah further explained that before selecting the SIECs, the foundation conducted a political economy analysis to determine which states would form the best partnerships with them, and those that would demonstrate willingness.

    The country director stated that they analysed all the states in the country and narrowed it down to Plateau, Kaduna, Lagos, Akwa Ibom, Gombe, and one more.

    PLASIEC Chairman, Mr Planji Cishak, said that the foremost intention of the commission was to foster collaboration among all stakeholders, particularly the citizens of Plateau.

    Cishak said PLASIEC’s goal was to ensure that Plateau citizens’ voices were heard and their votes counted in the choice of leaders at the grassroots.

    He stated that in pursuit of the commission’s mission to uphold democratic ideals in Plateau, PLASIEC intended to forge a robust partnership with media practitioners, political parties, security agencies, and development partners.

    The chairman emphasised that the IFES, YIAGA Africa, civil society organisations, and all critical stakeholders were crucial to the success of their assignment.

    He lauded IFES for picking PLASIEC for its support in the north-central geopolitical zone of the country.

    Cishak said the PLASIEC leadership would identify and address challenges, implement innovative solutions, and maintain an open-door policy to rebuild trust and restore hope in the electoral process among Plateau citizens.

    “Together, let’s raise the bar and ensure that PLASIEC sets a standard of integrity and fairness that serves as a beacon for others,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    PAT/DOR
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    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Plateau electoral body begins preparation for LG elections 

    Plateau electoral body begins preparation for LG elections 

    Preparation

    By Peter Amine

    Jos, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), says it has commenced preparations for the conduct of local government elections.

    PLASIEC Chairman, Mr Planji Cishak, made the disclosure on Thursday in Jos, when he briefed newsmen on the activities of the commission.

    Cishak, who assumed office one week ago, along with his commissioners, said that the commission had already commenced immediate actions and readiness checks.

    The chairman stated that PLASIEC identifying administrative and operational gaps and weaknesses, as well developing and implementing policies that would pave the way for free, fair, and credible elections at the grassroots.

    He assured the people that the goal was to establish a level playing field that would instill confidence in the electoral process across all political parties in Plateau.

    According to him, the commission will issue notice of election as soon as the checks are completed.

    “As an electoral umpire, our mandate is unequivocal: to fortify the electoral framework from the ward level up to the local government through credible election processes.

    “Under my watch, PLASIEC is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that every Plateau citizen exercises their democratic right to vote for local leaders.

    “We are dedicated to nurturing democratic leadership structures at the local level, rewriting the narrative of local government elections in the state and Nigeria through transparency, fairness, professionalism, and inclusivity.

    “In pursuit of our mission to uphold democratic ideals in Plateau State, PLASIEC intends to forge a robust partnership with media practitioners, political parties, security agencies, and development partners,” he said.

    Cishak called on all citizens of Plateau to join the commission on the journey to rebuild, retool, and reorganise the institution above individuals and narrow interests, so that everyone would be proud of PLASIEC.

    The chairman added that his vision at PLASIEC was to contribute to the growth of democratic ideals in Plateau and positively impact democracy in Nigeria.

    He maintained that the commission’s mission was to conduct credible local government elections in Plateau in accordance with established rules, guidelines, and global best practices. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    PAT/DOR
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    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Don tasks Plateau commissioner on completion of stadium, other projects

    Don  tasks Plateau commissioner on completion of stadium, other projects
    Stadium
    By Peter Amine
    Jos, June 19, 2024 (NAN) A University don,  Associate Prof. Godfrey Danaan, Head of Department of Mass Communication, University of Jos, has urged Plateau Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Lawandi Datti to prioritize the completion of Jos Ultramodern Stadium and other projects.
    Danaan stated this on Wednesday when he led staff of the department on a congratulatory visit to the commissioner, who is an alumnus of the department.
    The head of department said that they were not in doubt of Datti’s ability to add significant value to the Gov. Caleb Mutfwang-led state government.
    He described the commissioner as a gentleman, who has worked so hard, even while in school, and that they saw the potential to excel at evey assignment in him.
    Danaan noted  that the department had followed what had been happening in the ministry and that they believed that there would be positive results.
    “So being a cabinet member, we have said it is not just enough to say congratulations, but that there are many responsibilities that lie ahead.
    “There are many tasks, one of which is that in the ministry of youth and sports, we see a stadium that has been there.
    “We feel that the stadium is something that needs urgent attention. But we know the kind of product we have in him.
    “We are aware that even before we shared this idea about the stadium, you must have been dreaming of the stadium and many other projects.
    “We know what we have produced in you, and we are confident that you will give the best to the state,” he said.
    Danaan commended Mutfwang for assembling a young and energetic team, of which Datti happens to be one of the youngest in the cabinet.
    According to him, the governor had begun well and was using this team to transform the state.
    “What he has met, he’s building on, and that is what governance is all about. It’s not about coming to say that man didn’t do it well.
    “Or the previous set didn’t do it well. But whatever I have come to see, let me continue to do it well because we’re serving the state,” he added.
    Datti, in his remarks, said that he lacked words to adequately convey his appreciation.
    The commissioner promised to make the department proud by doing his best for the state.
    “It would interest you to know that it is not only the stadium but also our youth centres that will see a lot of activities manifesting by the grace of God within this year.
    “If you recall, I told you last month that I was out of the country, not for pleasure but for an important matter relating to youth development.
    “In the next few weeks or, let’s say, a few months, it will manifest, and it will be a plus for Plateau.
    “As you know, the government of Plateau is the government of the people. The governor is the people’s governor. During our campaign, we said the time is now.
    “And the time is now for our youth on the Plateau to feel inclusive. The time is now for the sporting activities on the Plateau to progress astronomically,” he stated.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlight of the event was the presentation of a Distinguished Ambassador Award to Datti by the department in recognition of his support for the department and service to Plateau. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    PAT/YGA
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    Edited by Gabriel Yough

  • Jos South LG supports Plateau Govt. executive order implementation 

    Jos South LG supports Plateau Govt. executive order implementation

    Support

    By Peter Amine

    Jos, June 19, 2024 (NAN) The management of Jos South Local Government Area (LGA), has pledged unalloyed support to the Plateau Government on the implementation of Executive Order 003.

    The LGA Transition Implementation Committee Chairman, Mr Peter Dung, stated this on Wednesday in Jos, while speaking with newsmen on the skirmishes that occurred in Bukuru.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the Executive Order 003 is aimed at ensuring that activities in the Jos metropolis conform to the Greater Jos Master Plan.

    NAN also reports that cars and houses were razed down by some hoodlums when the taskforce led by the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), was enforcing the order in Bukuru on Monday.

    Dung described the unfortunate incident as ”pure madness by some miscreants who don’t want peace to reign”.

    “They have nothing to do with the taskforce.They are hoodlums, and the government will never tolerate them.

    “We appreciate what the security operatives have done. The security personnel stood there to ensure that peace was restored, and that peace had come to stay.

    “The executive order 003 is a law that nobody can challenge.

    “The order must be implemented, and it has come to stand, and JMDB would work to ensure that they achieve order 003.

    “As a government, we are totally in support of the state government, and we will not be intimidated by miscreants,” he stated.

    The chairman said that peace has since returned to the area and that people were going about their businesses peacefully without molestation.

    Dung further stated that in line with the state government’s resolve to restore sanity on the streets of Jos, the local government built a multimillion-naira ultramodern motor park to rid the area of illegal parks.

    The chairman promised to wholeheartedly serve the people of Jos South as their chief servant. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    PAT/DOR
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    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Democracy: We have failed Nigerians, Plateau speaker says 

    Democracy: We have failed Nigerians, Plateau Speaker says

    Rating

    By Peter Amine 

    Jos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly, Gabriel Dewan, says Nigerian leaders, including himself, have failed the people after 25 years of the country’s unbroken democracy.

    Dewan, who spoke with newsmen on Wednesday in Jos, therefore, rated Nigeria’s democracy low.

    The speaker said that the country was blessed with abundant human and natural resources, but they were not properly harnessed by the leaders.

    He stated that with the natural resources and the blessings that God had bestowed upon Nigeria, the country ought to be far better than it was now. 

    Dewan stated that there were countries with far fewer resources than Nigeria, yet they were in a much better state.

    “At times, some of us even begin to wonder if it would be better to return to military rule, as most of the infrastructure in this country was built by military governments.

    “The creation of states, local government areas, and most of our federal highways, were all accomplished under military rule.

    “If I were to score the performance of democracy in Nigeria from 1999 to today, I would rate it at seven per cent out of 100 per cent. 

    “This is across all sectors: infrastructure, education, health, and more. 

    “Consider this; today in Nigeria, our ministers of education send their children to private schools. 

    “Our Minister of Health does not seek medical attention in public facilities. Even local government chairmen lack the confidence to send their own children to public schools, which they directly manage,” he said.

    According to him, leaders must take responsibility, adding that the country needs a total overhaul of its democratic practices, as what Nigeria is practicing at the moment is not true democracy. 

    “I pray that we, as leaders, can think deeply and act in a way that gives true meaning to democracy, otherwise, we will continue to face these problems.

    “From 1999 to date, our performance under democracy has been woeful, and it needs a total change,” Dewan added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    PAT/DOR
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    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Plateau Assembly passes 7 bills amidst challenges – speaker

    Bills
    By Peter Amine
    Jos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Plateau State House of Assembly Speaker Gabriel Dewan says the house has passed seven bills irrespective of some challenges facing the 10th assembly.
    Dewan stated this while briefing newsmen on the activities of the assembly in the last 12 months, explaining that two of the seven bills had been assented to by the governor, while the others were waiting for his assent.
    He listed some bills passed to include the Plateau State Electricity Bill and the Plateau State Minimum Wage, among others.
    Dewan also said that apart from the bills, the lawmakers were able to move and pass some motions such as a motion for the welfare and resettlement of internally displaced persons and a motion to increase the scholarship of Plateau indigenes students.
    “The 10th Plateau Assembly is one of the most challenging assemblies that the state has ever had.
    “As you are all aware, when we came in, I wasn’t the speaker, I was the Minority Chief Whip and the first five months were terrible for us.
    “It was a challenging year because some of the colleagues that we were inaugurated together are no longer members of the assembly.
    “In November, when I became speaker, it was the beginning of another round of political challenges concerning the inauguration and integration of old and new members of the assembly.
    “However, in spite of the political interests and clashes outside the complex, we never had issues that warranted ending the plenary abruptly,” he stated.
    Dewan appreciated God for sparing the lives of members, as no death or severe sickness was recorded among members of the 10th assembly.
    He commended members for always leaving their political views outside the legislative chambers for the good of the Plateau people.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    PAT/KAY
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    Edited by Kayode Olaitan