Breaking News: Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Attends Wedding of Governor Mutfwang’s Son and Chief Nanyah Daman’s Daughter

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on Saturday graced the wedding ceremony between the son of His Excellency Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, the Governor of Plateau State, and the daughter of Chief (Amb.) Nanyah Daman, publisher of Newgate Magazine.

The colourful event drew dignitaries from across political, religious, and traditional spheres, all gathered to witness the union of the two families. Professor Yilwatda was seen moving around the venue, exchanging warm pleasantries with the Governor and other prominent guests in attendance.

His presence at the occasion was widely seen as a demonstration of political maturity and statesmanship, underscoring the need for unity and collaboration among leaders irrespective of party affiliation. The gesture also reflects his belief in building bridges across political divides for the peace and progress of Plateau State.

Speaking at the sidelines of the event, several attendees commended the peaceful and cordial atmosphere that characterized the occasion, describing it as a reflection of Plateau’s growing culture of mutual respect among leaders. Many said such social interactions among political figures help to reduce tension and foster understanding across party lines.

Plateau APC Stakeholders Endorse Tinubu for Second Term as Yilwatda Rolls Out ₦200m Youth Empowerment Drive

(By Walbe Ogak)

“The APC is a party that builds people, communities, and environments — and we’ll keep building,” says Yilwatda.

The political tempo in Plateau State has taken a new dimension as the All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders have unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

The decision came amid cheers and renewed enthusiasm at a well-attended stakeholders’ meeting held at Crest Hotel, Jos, where the party’s National Chairman and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, unveiled another round of empowerment initiatives worth ₦200 million for Plateau youths engaged in small-scale and petty businesses.

Professor Yilwatda’s tone at the event was both confident and reassuring. He declared that the APC’s focus under his leadership was not about handouts but about transforming empowerment into a sustainable culture.

“Our empowerment programme is not a one-off initiative; it’s a continuous process,” he emphasized. “It’s the agenda of the APC — to build people, to create opportunities, and to ensure that every Plateau youth can stand tall and self-reliant. We want to show the difference between APC and other parties. We are not just talking politics; we are building futures.”

The ₦200 million scheme, which kicks off on Monday, October 20, 2025, comes barely a week after the APC Chairman provided ₦50 million as support to women whose market stalls were demolished during the implementation of the Jos Master Plan by the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB).

Building on a Legacy of Impact

Since assuming office, Professor Yilwatda has consistently demonstrated a rare blend of compassion and strategy. From the distribution of rice palliatives across the state during the 2024–2025 period to the provision of 10,000 cassava stems to farmers, the training of youths in solar energy, automobile mechanics, and greenhouse agriculture, and the organization of a month-long free medical outreach across the three senatorial zones — his humanitarian imprint has been both wide and deep.

“When we empower people, we create a ripple effect,” Yilwatda told the cheering audience. “A single youth who receives support today will empower another tomorrow. That’s how nations are built — from one productive citizen to a productive community.”

He further announced that the Federal Government had initiated a $600 million special loan to support small businesses and technology ventures, adding that Plateau State must not be left behind.

“At the national level,” he said, “we have also agreed to unveil what we proudly call the World’s Best Empowerment Programme for Nigerian youth. For us in Plateau, we’ve already set up a team to ensure our members benefit maximally. It’s your labour, your sweat, your vote — and we’ll make sure it works for you.

The Crest Hotel meeting was more than just a gathering — it was a celebration of unity and rebirth for the Plateau APC. With a broad smile, Yilwatda declared that the party had become “pathogen-free” following its recent reorganization and evaluation exercise in Kebbi State.

He revealed that plans were underway to receive a massive wave of defectors from the PDP, ADC, and PRP before the end of the year, signaling the APC’s growing dominance in the state.

“Our doors are open, but our standards remain,” Yilwatda said. “We will welcome all who share our vision for progress. Everyone returning or joining the APC will enjoy equal rights and privileges as enshrined in our constitution.”

The grand reception of defectors, according to him, has been slated for October 30, 2025, under the leadership of Arch. Pam Dung Gyang, with Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and several governors expected to grace the occasion.

Turning to national issues, Yilwatda praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing it as “visionary, bold, and result-oriented.” He commended the President for stabilizing the economy, increasing crude oil output, and achieving 4.3% GDP growth, which even the World Bank had described as unlikely.

“Mr. President has defied the odds,” Yilwatda stated. “He’s building roads across Nigeria, establishing cancer treatment centers — including the one soon to be completed at JUTH — and giving every part of the country a sense of belonging. Under his leadership, minorities now have a voice in national discourse.”

He added that the President’s generosity towards Plateau State had been exceptional, citing the appointment of Cyril Tsenyil as the pioneer Director-General of the North Central Development Commission, alongside his own elevation as APC National Chairman.

“These appointments are not mere titles,” he said. “They represent trust, recognition, and opportunity for Plateau people to contribute to national growth. That’s why we say, without hesitation — Plateau is APC, and in a more personal tone, Yilwatda expressed deep appreciation to stakeholders who stood by him during his mother’s burial. He also conveyed President Tinubu’s gratitude for the unprecedented turnout of Plateau citizens during that visit.

“The President told me personally,” Yilwatda said with a smile, “that Plateau showed him love like no other state. That show of unity means so much to him and to me.”

Several stakeholders also took turns to speak, echoing their support for the empowerment initiatives and the second-term endorsement of President Tinubu.

One of the elders, Hon. Madaki, described Yilwatda’s leadership as “a breath of fresh air,” saying:

“This is the kind of politics we need — politics that puts people first, that measures success not by elections won but by lives touched.”

Another stakeholder, Mrs. Janet David, representing the women’s wing, added:

 “We have seen what Yilwatda has done for us. He didn’t wait for elections; he came to our rescue when our shops were destroyed. That’s leadership with heart.

The meeting concluded with the formal endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office by all Plateau APC stakeholders. The gathering also unanimously rejected the rumored defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to the APC, insisting that the party remains focused on integrity, discipline, and service.

As the sun set over Jos that evening, one message rang loud and clear:

The Plateau APC under Professor Nentawe Yilwatda is not just preparing for the next election — it is laying the foundation for the next generation.

Chirman: The new architect at the Plateau State Polytechnic

By Katdapba Yunana Gobum

In the last one year or there about, Dr Clement Selchum Chirman has held sway as the Rector of the Plateau State Polytechnic. There are a number of things to cheer anyone who may have thought otherwise.

Whatever the problems he may have encountered on his way to his ascendancy, those may have paled into insignificance as the records of his achievements in the office in the last one year speak for him.

However, it is right to note: There are no perfect situations in life, except one near it. In situations such as this, they reveal a lot of what should be known. But most importantly, it should be noted that his appointment is in line with the template of appointment of Rectors set up by the NBTE

Above all, no one but God lifts men into higher positions in life, in most cases using the ministry of men. This assertion captures his rise to his present position as Rector.

Some may have read about the opinions of certain persons, who have innocuously questioned the degree of the suitability of the Rector. It may be in their purview to ask, but not in their right to disparage the level to which he has attained in close to three decades.

One is not oblivious of the extant laws guiding the establishment of the institution. Knowing that has fuelled my curiosity as to ask questions about his suitability for the position.

If there is a precedence in similar institutions of the same status in other states, pray, what would be wrong in replicating same here, so long as he is qualified for the position? The need to address and accommodate other interests could have been responsible for certain actions.

The following, who have PhDs in English, Political Science, Library Science, Accounting and Management Studies; have served as heads of some state and federal polytechnics as Rectors.

They include Dr Danjuma Baba, former Rector, Federal Polytechnic Idah- English, Dr Oluseyi Abiodun, Ogun State Institute of Technology Igbesa- English, Dr Hauwa Mohammed Tanko- Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa- English; and Dr Nurudeen Maifata- Isa Mustapha Agwai,  Polytechnic, Lafia- Library Studies 

Others include, current Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda- Accounting, Dr Suleiman M Lame, immediate past Rector, Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, Management Studies, and Prof Onu, former Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Political Science.

That may not be all, for instance, the  former Rector of YabaTech and Auchi Polytechnic both read Secretariat Studies rising up to position of Rector of their institutios.

It is publicly acclaimed that the government did not foist him on the Polytechnic with any recorded protest. It first made him serve in an acting capacity for about a year and decided he was suitable for the position; after coming tops in the interview he was called together with others.

To think that the man has served the polytechnic, and rising to the position of Chief Lecturer; he, or anyone in that position should not be labelled as unqualified to superintend over the affairs of the Institution.

That may be, the success of an institution largely depends on the person put in charge and his management team, staff, even as the students have a huge responsibility to ensure that things work out well.

It should be noted that crucial and effective leadership have always been responsible for the success of academic institutions. For anything that is good, the leadership recruitment says a lot about the direction its owners want it to go.

For those who are aware of the stories emanating from the state polytechnic that memory can still serve us, students enrollment and unpredictable academic challenges which affected the smooth operations of the institution have been streamlined for productivity.

Having put in over 25 years in teaching and being involved in other extra curricular activities, he knows the terrain well enough to play a major role in getting the institution rejuvenated in several areas.

The massive accreditation of about 31 programmes in 27 of its departments, building of key infrastructure with funding being addressed by the government are enough to swell the head of those who should know better.

For several years running, the stabilisation of academic calendar has never been as pronounced as under his leadership. To have been a former Chairman of Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic himself, Dr Clement S Chirman experience would have been an added advantage to working with unions and alumni association.

Recently, about 25 key celebratory items that cover almost all areas of concern of the institution were released, coming at the end of his acting capacity as Rector. These are the signs that give the institution and its management team, and a student population that is almost hitting roof top a pat on the back what to celebrate.

It is a major plank of what to expect if, only in one year the records are there to be verified and celebrated; what could be expected at the end of his tenure? It is better Imagined, as there will be more to celebrate.

THE RT. HON. DEWAN CONUNDRUM

Why Politicians Must Keep Watch Over Their Supporters

By: Walbe Ogak

Recently, social media—particularly Facebook—was awash with a viral video that garnered over five hundred views. In the clip, a man lavishly praised Rt. Hon. Dewan as an achiever while condemning other politicians from the same locality as failures. That video is just one example among many of a growing trend in political discourse.

The content of such videos exposes how far some supporters are willing to go — not only to intimidate others but to pull them down, regardless of their principal’s actual performance. More troubling is the silence of the person being praised, which often signals tacit approval.

To label every other politician in Pankshin — among the many who have left indelible marks of service and accomplishment, both living and dead — as failures is nothing short of desperation and a lack of genuine content to campaign with.

This kind of misguided loyalty finds a timeless parallel in T.S. Eliot’s Murder in the Cathedral, which tells the story of Archbishop Thomas Becket, martyred by overzealous knights of King Henry II. The King never directly ordered Becket’s death, but his frustrated words were misinterpreted by his followers as a command. That fatal misunderstanding became a powerful symbol of the dangers of blind loyalty — a warning that still resonates today.

Our modern political space mirrors that medieval tragedy. Many politicians today are surrounded by supporters eager to display loyalty, sometimes without restraint or reason. In their zeal, they cross ethical lines — attacking opponents, spreading misinformation, or tarnishing reputations — all in the mistaken belief that they are defending their leader’s honor.

When such acts occur, public judgment rarely stops at the followers. It extends to the leader, whose silence or failure to intervene is taken as endorsement. Leadership, whether in literature or life, carries moral responsibility for the conduct of those who act in one’s name.

The recent viral video praising Rt. Hon. Dewan while disparaging other notable politicians raises an important ethical question: Where should admiration end and defamation begin? What appears as harmless loyalty may actually breed division, resentment, and misrepresentation. Every responsible politician must make it clear that praise for one should never come at the expense of destroying another’s reputation.

Just as the knights in Murder in the Cathedral acted on what they thought the King wanted — not what he truly commanded — today’s political supporters often mistake silence for consent. True leadership demands the courage to speak up and correct one’s own followers, even when it is uncomfortable or unpopular.

Moral courage, not convenience, defines great leaders. Archbishop Becket stood on principle, even unto death. Likewise, politicians must resist the temptation to tolerate destructive loyalty for temporary political gain. Rebuking errant supporters may be unpleasant, but it is necessary to preserve integrity and public trust.

Supporters reflect the tone and character of their leaders. A politician who communicates with respect inspires followers to do the same, while divisive rhetoric fuels chaos. Words have power — and every careless statement, joke, or social media post can set off actions with unintended consequences.

History reminds us that movements lacking moral discipline eventually implode. Enthusiasm without ethics turns into fanaticism. Leaders must, therefore, cultivate civility, tolerance, and truth among their supporters. A campaign built on hatred is doomed to self-destruction.

King Henry II’s lament — “Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?” — led to a tragic killing. Modern politicians must remember that their own words and silences carry equal weight. Leadership demands not only awareness but restraint.

In an era of deepening political polarization, it is not enough to win elections. True leaders must build responsible, informed supporters and guide them by example. The greatest test of leadership lies not in disowning wrongdoing after it happens but in preventing it before it occurs.

T.S. Eliot’s Murder in the Cathedral warns us that unchecked loyalty can be as dangerous as outright rebellion. Politicians who fail to guide their followers risk being destroyed by the very people who claim to serve them.

If Rt. Hon. Dewan truly has a record of achievements, why are his followers not projecting those accomplishments — but are instead busy calling others failures? As the saying goes, an empty drum makes the loudest noise.

Euphoria in Akwanga as Rep. Umaru Trains Teachers in Constituency

It was all unfiltered feelings of intense happiness and excitement from teachers in Gaji Luxury Hotel, Akwanga Nasarawa state as the Lawmaker representing Akwanga/ Nasarawa Eggon/Wamba Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Jeremiah Umaru,ACA,ACTI, successfully trained 100 secondary and primary school teachers across the 35 electoral wards in his constituency. 

The initiative, aimed at improving teachers’ capacity for effective school administration and incorporating ICT into teaching methods, as part of the lawmaker's broader plan to enhance education in the area.

At the conclusion of the training in Akwanga, Rep. Umaru emphasized the importance of equipping teachers with modern skills to boost students’ learning outcomes. He assured participants that the program would be sustained and expanded to include all teachers in the constituency to align with global standards.

The lawmaker also expressed satisfaction with the recently concluded SabonSalo Inter-School Debate Series, which showcased the confidence and eloquence of participating students. He commended teachers for their dedication to nurturing the next generation, highlighting how platforms like the debate is helping students from the constituency in building networks, refining public speaking abilities, and pursuing their aspirations.

This teachers training and empowerment is first of it's kind in the Federal constituency since her creation. The training is a huge reminder that teachers are not just transmitters of knowledge, but the custodians of stability and the architects of change have remained leaders and unsung heroes in our nation’s history and ensuring that our children are equipped to build a more hopeful future for our communities.

Rep Umaru trains 100 teachers, donates N10m to debate winners

By Sunday John

Rep Jeremiah Umaru (APC, Akwanga/Nassarawa-Eggon/Wamba Federal Constituency) has trained more than 100 secondary and primary school teachers across the 35 electoral wards in the constituency to build their capacities for optimal performance.

Speaking at the event on Wednesday in Akwanga Local Government Area (LGA), Nasarawa State, the lawmaker said that the gesture was part of his blueprint to invest and promote the education sector.

The capacity building was aimed at building the capacities of teachers on school administration, and how to use Information Communication Technology (ICT) in aiding teaching and learning with a view to making them more effective and efficient. 

He promised to sustain the training and extend it to all teachers in the constituency in line with global-based practice. 

The training featured papers and presentations on The Role of Information, Communication Technology (ICT) in Teacher Education, Effective School Leadership Management: The Role of Principals and Head Teachers, Effective Financial Management in School Administration and Drug Abuse and the Poor Performance of Students.

Similarly, a lawmaker had also presented more than N10 million as cash prizes to the winners of the secondary school debate competition in his constituency.

The debate which was the second edition, was organised by the Federal Lawmaker for secondary schools across the 35 electoral wards of his constituency.

Umaru said that he was impressed with the level of confidence and the composure of the participants and their sequence in arguing their points.

He appreciated the teachers of the various participating schools for grooming and imparting knowledge and values to the students.

Umaru explained that the debate, which was the second edition, aimed at creating a network among the students to expose them to standard best practices.

He said that the programme was designed to create a strong network for the students and provide them with a platform to speak to a larger crowd.

“The network they built today will brighten their academic pursuits and strengthen their public speaking techniques to achieve their dreams and aspirations, in the future.

“It has provided a platform for peer review between students from government schools and their counterparts from private schools.

“Some of us were also groomed through debates and quiz competitions during our school days”, he added.

He therefore promised to continue to initiate programmes in various sectors to empower his constituents to justify their support at the polls.

The lawmaker presented prizes to the best students and best schools who emerged as winners in the competition as well as consolation prizes to all the participating schools.

The Shepherd International College, Akwanga, had emerged as the overall winner, with Government Science Secondary School, Wamba, and Our Lady of Fatima College Ogba, Nassarawa-Eggon as the first and second runners-up.

He presented a cheque of N1 million and five laptops to the winner, N700, 000 and three laptops and N500, 000 and two laptops to the first and second runners up respectively.

Umaru had also presented N500,000 and one laptop to the best speaker, N250,000 and one laptop to the second speaker and N150,000 and one laptop to the third speaker at the competition.

He equally presented N200,000 and educational materials to each of the remaining 32 participating schools.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the debate competition started in August. (NAN).

NUJ Plateau Council Unveils Activities for 2025 Press Week

By WALBE ORGAK

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, has unveiled an exciting lineup of activities for its 2025 Press Week, designed to celebrate the journalism profession, foster unity, and promote professional development among media practitioners on the Plateau.

According to the Press Week Committee, the celebration will commence on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, with an Awareness Walk from the NUJ Press Centre to the State Secretariat Roundabout and back. The walk, which aims to sensitize the public on the role of journalists in nation-building, is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 a.m.

On Thursday, October 16, 2025, attention will shift to a High-Level Colloquium at Crispan Hotel, Jos. The Gbong Gwom Jos, His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, is expected to deliver a keynote address on the theme: “Plateau: What Next After the Crossroads.” The event begins at 9:00 a.m. and will bring together scholars, policymakers, and media professionals for intellectual discourse.

Activities for Friday, October 17, 2025, include a Juma’at Prayer at the Jos Central Mosque at 1:30 p.m., followed by a 5-Aside Novelty Football Match and Aerobics Session at Gold and Base Football Pitch and Villa Grand Hotel, Jos, starting at 3:00 p.m.

The festivities continue on Saturday, October 18, 2025, with a Cultural Day at the NUJ Press Centre by 3:00 p.m. The event will feature traditional cuisines, music, and cultural displays showcasing the rich heritage of Plateau State and Nigeria at large.

The week-long celebration will climax on Sunday, October 19, 2025, with a Thanksgiving Service at the Living Faith Church Headquarters, British American Junction, Jos, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Chairman of the 2025 Press Week Committee, Farinola John Sunday, and Secretary, Zainab Babaji, called on journalists across the state to participate fully in the events. They emphasized that the Press Week provides a platform for members to network, learn, and honour the ideals of the noble journalism profession.

HON. ASAMA LIGHTS UP BASSA/JOS NORTH AGAIN: Over 250 Participants Benefit from 3-Day Intensive Empowerment Training in Agriculture and Environmental Management

By WALBE ORGAK

Hon. Amb. Daniel Asama Ago, Member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has once again taken the state by storm with another round of empowerment — a gesture that has become his trademark since his victory at the Election Petition Tribunal.

The latest initiative — a 3-Day Intensive Empowerment Training on Agriculture and Environmental Management Skills — commenced in Jos with over 250 participants drawn from across the constituency.

The program, organized in collaboration with the Federal College of Forestry, Jos, is designed to equip citizens with practical skills to help them achieve self-reliance amid Nigeria’s current economic challenges.

Speaking on behalf of Hon. Asama, Mr. Ajik Ajiji said the training is part of the legislator’s deliberate effort to empower his people beyond the short-term relief of food distribution.

“This impactful training aims to equip participants with modern skills in Bee-Keeping, Plantation Establishment, Agro-Forestry/Propagation, Mushroom Farming, Snail Farming, ICT in Agriculture, and Photography, among others,” Ajiji stated.

He further emphasized that the initiative is a strategic move to help participants gain independence and practical know-how to sustain themselves in the long term.

Ajik also disclosed that at the end of the program, Hon. Asama has made provisions for starter packs, materials, and financial assistance to enable beneficiaries to begin their ventures immediately after the training.

Observers say the empowerment drive is a continuation of Asama’s people-centered approach to representation, which has seen him embark on several monthly empowerment programs since assuming office. His focus, they noted, remains on transforming dependency into productivity across Bassa/Jos North.

Born and raised in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, Hon. Amb. Daniel Asama Ago, fondly called “The Anki Kaboh”, is widely regarded as a dynamic, visionary, and grassroots-oriented leader. Before venturing into politics, Asama distinguished himself in community service, philanthropy, and youth mobilization, championing several initiatives that promoted education, skills acquisition, and peacebuilding within his constituency.

A trained diplomat and public administrator, Hon. Asama has represented Nigeria in various international fora, earning the title of Ambassador through his engagements in peace and development advocacy. His deep commitment to social welfare and community empowerment has shaped his political philosophy — one rooted in service, inclusivity, and development-driven representation.

Since assuming office as a federal lawmaker, Asama has prioritized youth empowerment, women development, education, and agriculture. He is known for his monthly empowerment schemes, consistent outreach to constituents, and tireless advocacy for federal projects that directly impact local communities. These qualities have made him one of the most visible and admired lawmakers from Plateau State.

 Hon. Asama has continued to reaffirmed his commitment to continue investing in human capacity and grassroots empowerment, stressing that sustainable growth begins with equipping people with the right skills and opportunities.

“We cannot continue to depend on handouts,” he said. “Our goal is to raise a generation of self-reliant citizens who can create opportunities, not just wait for them. When we empower one person with skills, we are securing the future of many others.”

With initiatives like this, Hon. Asama continues to solidify his place as a representative who not only listens to his people but also acts decisively to change their lives for the better.