PRESS STATEMENT PROF. PATRICK SUNDAY DAKUM TASKS NIGERIANS ON SUSTAINING AND CONSOLIDATING THE ESSENCE AND SACRIFICE MADE BY FALLEN HEROES

Plateau State Labour Party, LP, governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections, and Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, IHVN, Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has called on Nigerians to uphold and consolidate the essence and feats achieved by Fallen Heroes' sacrifice. 

Dakum asserts that the armed forces put their lives in harms way, where so many of them lost parts of their  body and lives to keep the country one and united; and have also faced the same fate in not only protecting the territorial integrity of the country, but combating and flushing out insurgency ranging from Maitasine, Boko Haram to Islamic State's of West African Province, ISWAP; and also bandits, kidnappers and secessionists terrorizing the peace and internal security of the country. 

The Epidemiology and Public Health Professor, School of Medicine Maryland University, Baltimore USA, quoted John 15:13 saying, "Greater love has no one than this, that one should lay down his life for his friends." 

He said the Fallen Heroes have truly exhibited genuine friendship and proven their love by laying down their lives for us to be alive, united and secured. And the appreciation that we can show to them is to uphold the values and essence of their death because reverting to the causes of secessioning, insurgency, banditry and kidnapping is betrayal of their lives' and body's sacrifices. 

He called on politicians, clergy, ethnic and regional chauvinists who embarked on the destruction of our national cohesion by perpetrating discord, mutual suspicion and hatred along ethnic, religious and regional lines threatening our corporate existence to think twice and desist so that the lives lost by the Fallen Heroes will not be in vain. 

Dakum added that there is no how Nigeria can attain nationhood with corruption and throes of segregation, nepotism, unhealthy and insatiable quest for wealth, injustice and other vices tailored towards disunity, bad governance, and oppression of the less privileged and minorities. 

The former Commissioner of Health and Information advocates, love, respect, appreciation and corporation in patriotic front for the Military to succeed in securing our lives and properties; and to also remember and reach out to the families of the Fallen heroes. 

Finally, he appeals to all to pray for the Armed Forces to succeed in their war with insurgents, bandits and kidnappers, and to pray for their families and those of the Fallen Heroes. 

Signed:

Shabul Mazadu 

Media Consultant 

15th January, 2025

GOV. MUTFWANG RECEIVES WINNERS OF E-DEBATE, COMMITS TO PRIORITIZING THE FUTURE OF PLATEAU YOUTHS

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has urged students across the state to avoid all forms of social vices and remain dedicated to their studies as a pathway to achieving greatness.

The Governor made this remark while receiving winners of the E-Debate and Bible Recitation competitions, alongside the presentation of a trophy won by Plateau State students at the National Engineering Competition organized by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), at the Old Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

Expressing his delight at the outstanding performance of the students, Governor Mutfwang announced full sponsorship for Jacob Ndam, a student of Government Model Secondary School, Shendam, to further his education at the university level.

He said: "Congratulations! You have made us proud. We are honored to have you as our children and Plateau students. Even if your parents are not originally from Plateau, we now consider you one of us. You are entitled to every privilege accorded to Plateau indigenes.

"We deeply appreciate your diligence and dedication to your studies, which has brought you this far. I am particularly glad for the efforts of Gindiri. It is time to revive such intellectually stimulating competitions across secondary schools, including debates and quizzes. Let us find creative ways to fully engage our youths."

Governor Mutfwang emphasized the need for students to grow in wisdom, use social media responsibly, and engage in productive activities that will guarantee a prosperous future. He also disclosed plans to introduce strategies aimed at prioritizing youth engagement and development in Plateau State.

The Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mohammed Nyalum, led the contingent of students who excelled in the Bible Recitation, E-Debate, and National Engineering (COREN) competitions to present their trophies to the Governor.

The Bible Recitation competition was won by students of Girls High School, Gindiri, while the National Engineering Competition trophy was claimed by students of Tamaral Fair View School, Jos. The National E-Debate Competition featured a winning team comprising students from Government Model Secondary School, Shendam, and Saint Augustine College, Du.

Jacob Ndam, who performed exceptionally in the E-Debate competition, had previously dropped out of school due to financial constraints but was brought back to participate in the national contest.

In recognition of their extraordinary achievements, Governor Mutfwang rewarded each student with laptops and tablets, underscoring his administration’s commitment to mainstreaming education as a priority agenda. He also expressed his eagerness to meet the Plateau indigene male student who recently emerged as WAEC's overall best.

Commissioner Nyalum commended the students and their tutors for their dedication, attributing the successes to the government’s investment in education.

Gyang Bere

Director of Press and Public Affairs office of the Executive Governor of Plateau State

January 15, 2025.

PROF. PATRICK SUNDAY DAKUM TASKS NIGERIANS ON SUSTAINING AND CONSOLIDATING THE ESSENCE AND SACRIFICE MADE BY FALLEN HEROES

Plateau State Labour Party, LP, governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections, and Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, IHVN, Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, has called on Nigerians to uphold and consolidate the essence and feats achieved by Fallen Heroes' sacrifice. 

Dakum asserts that the armed forces put their lives in harms way, where so many of them lost parts of their  body and lives to keep the country one and united; and have also faced the same fate in not only protecting the territorial integrity of the country, but combating and flushing out insurgency ranging from Maitasine, Boko Haram to Islamic State's of West African Province, ISWAP; and also bandits, kidnappers and secessionists terrorizing the peace and internal security of the country. 

The Epidemiology and Public Health Professor, School of Medicine Maryland University, Baltimore USA, quoted John 15:13 saying, "Greater love has no one than this, that one should lay down his life for his friends." 

He said the Fallen Heroes have truly exhibited genuine friendship and proven their love by laying down their lives for us to be alive, united and secured. And the appreciation that we can show to them is to uphold the values and essence of their death because reverting to the causes of secessioning, insurgency, banditry and kidnapping is betrayal of their lives' and body's sacrifices. 

He called on politicians, clergy, ethnic and regional chauvinists who embarked on the destruction of our national cohesion by perpetrating discord, mutual suspicion and hatred along ethnic, religious and regional lines threatening our corporate existence to think twice and desist so that the lives lost by the Fallen Heroes will not be in vain. 

Dakum added that there is no how Nigeria can attain nationhood with corruption and throes of segregation, nepotism, unhealthy and insatiable quest for wealth, injustice and other vices tailored towards disunity, bad governance, and oppression of the less privileged and minorities. 

The former Commissioner of Health and Information advocates, love, respect, appreciation and corporation in patriotic front for the Military to succeed in securing our lives and properties; and to also remember and reach out to the families of the Fallen heroes. 

Finally, he appeals to all to pray for the Armed Forces to succeed in their war with insurgents, bandits and kidnappers, and to pray for their families and those of the Fallen Heroes. 

Signed:

Shabul Mazadu 

Media Consultant 

15th January, 2025

PRECIOUS GONEN: A LEGACY IN ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Since the begining of the world, ideas, events and the activities of people, have continued to shape history, leaving in its wake, the footprint of rare exceptions who distinguished themselves. On the soil of Shiwer District, Kanke LGC, Plateau State, Nigeria, a new star in academic excellence has emerged. She is Precious Paradang Gonen Gofwen. 

The exceptional and sustained academic performance of this rare breed has continued to resonate with this author, the compelling reason to project her on the global map of great achievers, especially, in the academics.

Precious was born on 6th November, 2002. She attended Maranatha (now Mount Tabor), Nursery and Primary School, Jos graduated in 2012. Upon graduation, she went to Rhemaville Christian

Academy, Jos, where she obtained her Senior School Certificate in 2018, and thereafter, gained admission at Baze University, Abuja, Nigeria where she brought out the full action in her!

In the Universities, generally, first class honour are hard to come by, but Precious demystified that insinuation, thereby setting a new records as far as academics is concerned. She  proved herself, not just a one-off academic achiever but, a serial one. During her undergraduate programme at the Baze University, she graduated with a first class honours in International Relations and Diplomacy and was awarded a prize accompanied with commendation letter in 2021. This sterling achievement prompted her enrolment in a Master's programme in Leadership, Security and Society in the same University, and graduated in 2024, where she reinvented the same feat, with an award for exceptional performance, from her Faculty.

The superlative performance of Precious Gonen, has continued to attract marveling discussions amongst her school mates, the University and beyond. The question on the lips of many is that of how the 22 year old, managed to accomplish such unusual feats hence an attempt was made to get Precious' feelers, and she spoke about three (3) things: Her drive, the challenges she faced, as well as her prospects.

Precious highlighted that her journey was not a bed of roses, but the size of her dream, and the determination to pull through, was strong enough to weather down any impediment that could have hampered her progress. Furthermore, she explained that, her ambitious objectives garnished with consistency, discipline, dedication, and the unequal support of her family helped a great deal. Precious said, she managed to balance her extracurricular with academic obligations; leveraged the advise of her mentors as well as exchanging of ideas with her peers, and these greatly boosted her understanding, and enhanced her performance as a student.

Precious remains unrelenting, and it promises to be a new horizon, as she undertakes the decision to expand the frontiers of academic pursuit. Already, she has gained admission, and is at the verge of resuming a PhD programme in International Relations and Diplomacy, at Baze University, Nigeria, the alma-mater she used to repeatedly prove her worth in academics!

Precious is a genius, and a legacy in academic excellence. My conception of term genius is based on the understanding that, it is '99% perspiration, and 1% inspiration'. The Precious' star example, teaches here that, with effort triggered by passion, anybody, irrespective of gender, can make a genius!

Wonder Precious, has done so well, and line with the law of consistency, the world awaits her full/great manifestation. 

It was legendary playwright  Shakespeare, who observed and I quote that, 'some people are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness bestowed on them' through the benevolence of others (emphasis mine). This author is at a lost where Precious belongs in this context but very sure she is a great achiever who deserves prompt encouragement and motivation beyond the investments of parents and that of the University on her. 

Humanity stands a chance with people like Precious whose intellectual prowess is established in quality learning and proven character. Congratulations, and best wishes to the emerging Amazon!

*(Modest Thoughts with Ayuba, Yilgak'ha, 13th January, 2025; loisayuba420@mail.com; 08116181263)*

BIMORIT, A PROFILE IN TRIUMPH OF DETERMINATION OVER GENDER BARRIERS

I was scanning through my WhatsApp catalogue of posts recently; then, my attention was caught by a short note the Speaker and Member Representing Pankshin North in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dewan Gabriel Kudangbena, extended in favour of a certain girl whose name was not state at the time. It was a search-and-bring-me note which reads and I quote:  "Anybody who know this Ngas girl should please bring her to me".

I will no pre-empt, but message of the Number 3 citizen is pregnant with surprising possibilities for the concern in view of the inspiring act contained in documentary he personally sent along with the note. Hon. Speaker has not met the girl from Adams hence the manhunt notice attracted my curiosity. Thus, I decided to watch the documentary for details, and found it to be an inspiring story of a Ngas girl, Bimorit Hosea who hails from Shiwer Community, Kanke LGC, Plateau State.

Against all odds, Bimorit had picked up the challenge of embarking on some men dominated menials such as plastering, screeding and painting and her exploits were documented by "Sunday Diary", a popular programme of the Plateau Radio and Television Programme of the Plateau Radio and Television Corporation (PRTVC), after interviewing her.

My immediate reaction after watching the documentary was: 'Wow, this feat is Incredible! This rare breed deserves State, national and international recognitions!

What this girl has done has one great lesson that, virtues and value creation or addition, are not gender specific motivations but matters of mindset!

With this can-do-spirit, the public can be sure that Bimorit Hosea will not only be heard on airwaves but surely will earn a place in the hearts of noble people whose prime inspiration draw from hard work and dignity of labour!

This emerging Amazon is trailing the blaze and, the gates of favour will locate her. This is just the beginning of Bimorit's inspiring story, and thank you, Rt. Honourable Speaker, for the invitation extended to her!'

For all intent and purposes, Bimorit is a force for good, and a lesson in dignity of labour. She has an excellent spirit which can be said to have defied accepted limits of mediocres. While most of her contemporaries, especially, the female folks are asking why; she is asking why not? This girl is a game changer, and a classical example of an exceptionally 'hybreed' specie whose action has the potential of changing the world in phenomenally positive and ways. As a game changers, she got something unprecedented to challenge, especially, the female folks. This is evident, considering that, to make a positive difference in this terrestrial space does not require doing something gigantic but uncommon.

If these menial jobs that is bringing Bimorit to global limelight is a man's  job, then, she must, indeed, be a man in a female body. After all, plastering, screeding and painting are everybody's Jobs. If any lady's motivation is not in them; then, it is just a matter of choice and nothing else. In other words, girls can only be limited by their personal choices not lack of capacity rooted in their gender affiliation as mediocres and lazy thinkers will like the world to believe.

Bimorit is a 21 years old student of Environment Health Technology Department, at the National Veterinary Research Institute (NRVI), Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria.The fact that she combines the rigours of academic learning with those labourous jobs is a statement of determination. With such determination, she shown herself as an asset not a liability in the society. Bimorit realises the equality of opportunity nature has provided human beings. While some weak minds of her gender opt social crimes ranging from drug abuse, discreet prostitution and other criminal tendencies citing lack for an excuse, Bimorit decided to be different and, indeed, her sense of responsibility is the only reliable winning way in the journey of survival.

Coming from a humble background, Bimorit has superlatively proven the point that, with hard work and resilience, there is not feat that someone, irrespective of cannot attain. While the strength of her parents weaned, the girl is using hers not only to train herself but support the family. What a great blessing she is to the family and society!

If the story of Bimorit does not inspire you, then, you might have to redefine you motivations because the girl is a profile in virtues. Her virtues transcend physical beauty which she has in unequal measures.

The future of the world looks bright with Bimorit and her types. There is hope for humanity if boys and girls of of her pecking order reach critical mass. Put it this way: Should all young people of school age pick up the positive challenge Bimorit's action has posed, there is no mountain the world cannot level or valley it cannot be filled. A lot can be achieved through hard work and frugality.

The point here is that all people of goodwill, both at home and abroad, irrespective of gender cleavages could leverage the Bimorit's example to transform the universal work space. Public and private organisations at at levels could encourage this resourceful girl in all the ways they can. Our Local, State and Federal Governments could make Bimorit their entrepreneurial, humanitarian and food security  ambassador as a way of motivating her. She can be granted scholarships and her school fees fully paid. Recognising and rewarding her resourcefulness will inspire millions out there to arise. Bimorit is consciously or unconsciously teaching the world to rise in unison against the culture of dependency and begin to work towards rooting out poverty and hunger in Africa and, Nigeria in particular!

Bimorit has established the fact that gender is a special purpose vehicle not a barrier, and, indeed, she has become a beacon of determination and resilience", not only "in her community", but up and coming generations. May God bless and empower the world with many Bimorits who are great sources of pride and inspiration in the world of work so that they dwarf all the impediments that have limit people's resourcefulness under the lazy guise of gender affiliation!

*(Modest Thoughts with Ayuba, Yilgak'ha, 9th January, 2025, loisayuba420@gmail.com, 08116181263)*

CHIEF EPHRAIM USMAN A POLITICIAN WITH A GOLDEN HEART

By WALBE ORGAK 

Chief Ephraim Usman, the Plateau State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, is a politician with a compassionate heart of Gold, an empathetic leader who is genuinely cares for the well-being of his people. His selfless dedication to serving others is truly inspiring, making him a beloved figure in the community. With his kindness, generosity, and commitment to making a positive impact, Ephraim is a shining example of what it means to be a politician with a golden heart   

He has been demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering meaningful connections with the community. His proactive approach to engagement is evident in his frequent interactions with various stakeholders, including party leaders, critical decision-makers, local government officials, and vibrant youth and women's groups. 

This astute politician has spearheaded numerous meetings with key stakeholders, providing a platform for collaborative discussions and addressing concerns. These dialogues are crucial for understanding local needs and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

Chief Usman's commitment to grassroots development is further highlighted by his active participation in community events. By attending cultural celebrations and engaging directly with residents, he demonstrates a genuine interest in understanding the unique fabric of the community.

Beyond symbolic gestures, Chief Usman is actively seeking ways to support local initiatives. His engagement with youth and women's groups demonstrates a desire to empower these vital segments of the community, fostering their active participation in local development.

As bridge builder Chief Usman's efforts to bridge the gap between government and the community are significant. By being accessible and actively listening to the concerns of citizens, he is building trust and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the well-being of the people.

His commitment to inclusive development is evident in his engagement with diverse groups. By fostering collaboration between party leadership, community leaders, local government officials, and youth and women's groups, he is creating a platform for collective action and shared ownership of development initiatives.

Morso, Chief Usman's dedication to deepening community relations is a powerful catalyst for positive change. His proactive approach to engagement, coupled with a commitment to grassroots development, is shaping a more inclusive and vibrant community.

Indeed Chief Usman's actions serve as a role model for effective community leadership. His commitment to building strong relationships, empowering local voices, and fostering inclusive development sets a high standard for others to follow.

Usman's unwavering dedication to community engagement holds immense promise for the future. By fostering a culture of dialogue, collaboration, and shared responsibility, he is laying the foundation for a more prosperous and vibrant community.

In conclusion, beyond fostering politics, Chief Usman is a champion of grassroots development.  He recognizes that true progress stems from empowering communities to take ownership of their future.  He actively supports local initiatives, engaging with and supporting youth and women's groups, fostering their active participation in local development.  This commitment to empowering local voices ensures that the community's needs and aspirations are at the heart of all initiatives.

GOV. MUTFWANG'S SPOKESPERSON KICKS OFF PEACE AND UNITY FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT, APPEAL TO FIFA AGENTS AND TEAM MANAGERS TO IDENTIFY TALENTED PLAYERS

In a bid to foster peace, unity, and youth empowerment in Vwang community, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Dr. Gyang Bere, has launched and sponsored the Vwang District Peace and Unity Football Tournament. 

The tournament, held at the Vwang Central Football Field in Jos South Local Government Area, is aimed at strengthening social cohesion and unveil hidden football talents within the community.

Speaking during the colorful kick-off ceremony, Dr. Bere described the initiative as a strategic platform to unite the youth and nurture their exceptional abilities.

"It is with profound humility and immense joy that I stand before you today on this significant occasion, the kick-off of the Vwang District Peace and Unity Football Tournament. This initiative, which I am privileged to sponsor, is made possible by the unwavering support of this dynamic and peaceful community.

"This tournament is a deliberate step to harness the incredible football talents in Vwang, promote unity, and empower our youth with opportunities that prepare them for greatness. 

"Many of our youths possess exceptional skills but lack the platforms and mentorship to showcase their abilities beyond this district. Today, we bridge that gap by providing a stage where their potential can shine, and their dreams can come true."

Dr. Bere highlighted that the event aligns with the vision of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration, which prioritizes peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and combating social vices such as drug abuse.

 He emphasized that the tournament provides a platform to educate participants and the community on societal issues while encouraging productive and meaningful ventures.

"This event is not just about football; it is a call to action for our youth to pursue excellence and shun negative influences such as drug abuse. Through this tournament, we aim to instill values of selflessness, charity, and unity, which are critical for building a cohesive and progressive community."

Dr. Bere commended the Chairman of the Plateau Football Association (PFA), Hon. Dr. Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, for his invaluable support in ensuring the success of the tournament and called for further collaboration to make the initiative seamless and impactful.

The Gwom Rwey Vwang, Da Gyang Gut Balak, speaking on behalf of other traditional rulers, expressed gratitude to Governor Mutfwang for appointing Dr. Gyang Bere as his spokesperson, noting that the appointment has brought honor to the Vwang community.

 He applauded Dr. Bere for organizing the impactful tournament and emphasized its potential to unearth talented players who could represent Nigeria at the national and international levels.

"This initiative will undoubtedly uncover gifted players who can go on to represent Nigeria in international tournaments and clubs. I urge the players to adhere strictly to the rules of the game and demonstrate discipline throughout the tournament to achieve its objectives," the traditional ruler stated.

The tournament had in attendance, FIFA agents, scouts, coaches, and managers from prominent football clubs across Plateau State and beyond, providing participants with a rare opportunity to showcase their talents on a broader stage. Quality Sportwares were presented to the 10 participating teams and footballs among others.