BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE: PROF. NENTAWE YILWADA LAUDS PROF. PATRICK DAKUM

By WALBE ORGAK 

In a heartfelt birthday letter, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwada, Honourable Minister, congratulated Prof. Patrick Dakum, describing him as a man of purpose, excellence, and impact. Prof. Yilwada praised Prof. Dakum's brilliance as a physician, public health advocate, and leader, highlighting his calm demeanor, wisdom, faith, and compassionate strength.

The letter reads, "You are a rare combination of intellect and humility, vision and virtue, strategy, and soul." Prof. Yilwada wished Prof. Dakum many years of good health, laughter, divine favour, and enduring legacy, expressing pride in calling him his brother.

The birthday tribute underscores Prof. Dakum's significant contributions to society, and his positive impact on the Church and Nigeria.

‎GOV. MUTFWANG FELICITATES WITH DR. PATRICK DAKUM ON HIS BIRTHDAY‎

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has extended warm felicitations to renowned public health expert and statesman, Dr. Patrick Sunday Dakum, on the occasion of his birthday.

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‎Governor Mutfwang described Dr. Dakum as a distinguished son of Plateau State whose life has been defined by excellence, vision, and an unwavering commitment to service.

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‎He recalled Dr. Dakum’s outstanding tenure as Commissioner for Health in Plateau State, where he made landmark contributions to strengthening the health sector, as well as his notable service at the national level, where he has continued to distinguish himself with clarity, integrity, and purpose.

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‎The Governor particularly lauded Dr. Dakum’s transformational leadership at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), where he currently serves as Chief Executive Officer. Under his stewardship, IHVN has emerged as a global leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, cancer, and other infectious diseases saving countless lives and fortifying Nigeria’s public health infrastructure.

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‎Governor Mutfwang also commended Dr. Dakum’s philanthropy, humility, and values-driven leadership, which continue to inspire individuals across various walks of life. He noted with admiration Dr. Dakum’s bold venture into partisan politics, describing it as a further testament to his deep-rooted desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.

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‎As he marks another year, the government and people of Plateau State celebrate not only Dr. Dakum’s personal accomplishments, but also his far-reaching impact on humanity.

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‎On behalf of the government and the peace loving people of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang prayed that God grants Dr. Dakum long life, sound health, and continued wisdom to offer his invaluable counsel in building a just, healthy, and prosperous society.

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‎Gyang Bere

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

‎May 9, 2025

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GOV. MUTWFANG APPOINTS NEW PERM SECS

In a bid to enhance governance and policy implementation, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has appointed five new Permanent Secretaries to fill existing vacancies in the state civil service. The appointees are:

1. Bitrus Keln Hosea

2. Stephen Davou Daniel

3. Lohnan Vongsen Gambo

4. Tiemsan Kenneth Buenyen

5. John Danjuma Damenkyap

The Governor congratulated the new appointees, urging them to leverage their experience, professionalism, and dedication to drive good governance and efficient service delivery for the benefit of Plateau State citizens.

According to Gyang Bere, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor, the appointments aim to strengthen the state's governance machinery. The new Permanent Secretaries are expected to play a key role in implementing government policies and programs.

The newly elected Pope

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, has been making waves in the global Catholic community. Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Cardinal Prevost has risen through the ranks to become one of the Church's most influential leaders.

As Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Cardinal Prevost plays a crucial role in advising Pope Francis on bishop appointments worldwide. He also serves as President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, overseeing the Church's efforts in the region. Recently elevated to Cardinal-Bishop of Albano by Pope Francis in February 2023 is not mentioned in the prompt but 2025 is,  we will go with 2025, Cardinal Prevost brings a wealth of experience to his positions.

Before assuming his current roles, Cardinal Prevost served as Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, from 2015 to 2023, demonstrating his commitment to pastoral work. A member of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.), Cardinal Prevost's educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Villanova University, a Master's degree in Divinity from Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, and a Doctorate in Canon Law from Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Rome. He is fluent in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Italian.

With his extensive experience and knowledge, Cardinal Prevost is well-equipped to lead the Church's efforts in key areas. His appointment as Cardinal-Bishop of Albano is a testament to his dedication and service to the Catholic Church.

Apostle Chanlaham Seeks CAN Leadership, Pledges to Drive Positive Change

The Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN) is gearing up for a leadership transition next month, and Apostle Chalaham has emerged as a contender. With a strong sense of purpose, he has expressed his desire to lead the association, driven by a commitment to its growth and prosperity.

Apostle Chalaham's aspiration to lead CAN is rooted in his passion for the Christian community and his vision for the association's future. If elected, he pledges to work tirelessly for CAN's betterment, leveraging his experience and expertise to drive positive change.

As a prominent figure in the Christian community, Apostle Chalaham is well-positioned to understand CAN's needs and challenges. His commitment to the association's mission and values is unwavering, and he is eager to inspire and empower members to achieve their full potential.

With his sights set on the top spot, Apostle Chalaham is confident in his ability to lead CAN forward. He promises to work collaboratively with members, fostering a sense of unity and purpose that will drive the association's growth and impact. As CAN members prepare to elect their new leaders, Apostle Chalaham's candidacy is certainly worth noting.

Celebrating Prof. Shedrack Gaya Best: Outstanding Sports Leadership at PLASU

The Plateau State University (PLASU) community is proud to celebrate Prof. Shedrack Gaya Best, a paragon of leadership in sports. His dedication, expertise, and passion have undoubtedly elevated the institution's sports programs.

Lets take a moment to acknowledge the remarkable administration of Prof. Shedrack Gaya Best, which has implemented holistic transformational policies benefiting staff welfare, security, infrastructure, and a sports-friendly environment.

He is often refer to as the "Light in the Sports Tunnel" at the Plateau State University (PLASU). Since he assumed office in February 2024, his dedication to sports has been evident. He has granted approvals for PLSSU participation in two competitions, where, despite being eliminated from one, PLASU proudly secured a silver medal in the other.

Prof. Best has demonstrated wholesome commitment to ensuring PLASU's participation in the 27th NUGA Games. He has not only approved an online registration but also settled all outstanding NUGA annual dues, paid the CVCNU/NUGA sports development levy, and provided customized sports apparel. Furthermore, he has sponsored PLASU's athletes to compete in the NUGA-FISU trials, where they qualified to represent Nigeria in the World University Games in Rhine, Germany. PLASU athletes will compete in the 5000m (male and female categories) and the 800m (female category). This marks a historic first for PLASU since its establishment in almost 2 decades of existence.

Additionally, PLASU have received the green light to participate in the Nigeria University Staff Sports Association Games in May 2025. 

These achievements distinguish Prof. Best as a sports icon, hero, and legend at PLASU. With his unwavering support and investment in sports, he is poised to elevate PLASU's standing in both national and international rankings.

SEN. LALONG MOURNS FORMER PLATEAU DEPUTY GOVERNOR PROF SONNI GWANLE TYODEN

Former Governor of Plateau State and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Bako Lalong says he is devastated by the death of his former Deputy Governor Prof. Sonni Gwanle Tyoden who passed on to glory in Jos on Sunday 4th May 2025.

Senator Lalong led some former members of his Cabinet on a condolence visit to the residence of the deceased in Rayfield Jos to commiserate with them over the loss.

Lalong described the late Prof. Sonni Gwanle Tyoden as a trusted political ally, confidant, teacher and mentor who served with him diligently as Deputy Governor of Plateau State during the tenure of the APC Rescue Administration. 

He recalled that Prof. Tyoden brought significant stability, wisdom and experience to the government and worked tirelessly to ensure its success during the eight years tenure.

Lalong said Prof. Tyoden left indelible footprints in the sands of time having served the nation in various positions including the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos where he turned around the fortunes of the institution. 

He said as an academic, Prof. Tyoden did not only distinguish himself in teaching and research, but also mentored many students who have risen to the height of their careers in various fields.

He prayed God to grant his soul eternal rest and comfort the family, particularly his wife Mrs. Abigail Tyoden and children. 

Responding on behalf of the family, Mr. Gyenu Tyoden thanked the former Governor, Senator Simon Bako Lalong and his entourage for their words of comfort and condolences. 

He said appreciated the partnership and collaboration that existed between them within and outside office, saying the family is grateful for the role that the deceased played in service of the State and nation at large. 

He said the family will come up with burial arrangements which will be made available to the public in the coming days.

Prof. Tyoden died at the age of 74.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham 

Special Adviser Media to Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Plateau South Senatorial District. 

4th May 2025.