Water scarcity hit parts of Jos metropolis

By Walbe OGAK 

Water scarcity has gripped Jos, the capital city of Plateau State, leaving residents struggling to access this vital resource.  Areas like Jenta Adamu, Tudun Wada, Hwolshe, Anglo Jos, Kufang, and parts of Dadin Kowa, New Abuja, Zarmaganda, and Sabon Gari are facing the most severe shortages.

The situation is dire, with a 30-liter of Jerry can of water now costing a staggering ₦1,000.  Those who cannot afford this exorbitant price are forced to collect water from unsafe wells and streams, putting their health at risk. Residents are lamenting the hardship this water crisis has inflicted on their lives.

The Plateau State Government has agencies like the Ministry of Water Resources and Energy and the Plateau State Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (PRUWASSA) responsible for addressing water scarcity issues. However, it seems more needs to be done to alleviate the suffering of residents.

In the short term, residents may need to rely on alternative sources of water, such as boreholes, wells or streams. However, as the government and relevant agencies intensified efforts in addressing the situation.

Details soon.

2027 SENATE RACE: WHY KANAM DESERVES A CHANCE

By Walbe OGAK 

Rotation of elective political offices in some parts of Plateau state remains sacrosanct and significant aspect of promoting inclusivity, equity, stability, and fairness among the diverse ethnic groups. By rotation of political offices, different families, communities and ethnic groups get a chance to produce leaders, fostering a sense of belonging and representation among various segments of the population, thereby preventing dominance of particular group of people over others, thus fostering a sense of togetherness and representation.

Nigeria is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with unique interests and needs, that is why several constituencies have adopted the strategy of rotating political offices among its different groups, communities and ethnicities to ensure that no single group dominates political power and Plateau state as a whole adopted this strategies. The 2015 Plateau State governorship election was a pivotal moments in the state’s history of political rotation of offices between the three senatorial districts, these issues dominated the discussion, ultimately contributing to Simon Lalong’s victory over late GNS Pwajok against all odds. 

Considering the sequence of senatorial representation in Plateau state central senatorial district, it’s indeed germane to consider Kanam Local Government Area, as it’s the only one yet to produce a Senator.

Mangu took the first turn, producing Senator Nasiru Mantu, followed by Kanke with Senator Satty Gogwim, then, Bokkos produced Senator Joshua Dariye and Kanke again produce Senator Hezekiah Dimka. The most recently, Pankshin produced Senator Diket Plang. This leaves Kanam as the only area without senatorial representation.

Considering this, the Plateau State Central Senatorial seat has seen various representatives from different local government areas, yet Kanam has often been overlooked. This oversight can result in significant misrepresentation and misgiving in the political process among the local populace, creating a disconnect between the elected and the electorate. Therefore, rotating the Senatorial seat to Kanam acknowledges this historical inequity and promotes unity across the diverse communities in Plateau State. It is an essential step toward healing historical grievances rooted in political marginalization.

Moreso, considering the demographics of Kanam, with a population of over 168, 898 and an area of 2,600 square kilometers, it’s essential to ensure that the area also has a voice in the senatorial district, therefore, rotating the senatorial seat to Kanam, the people of Plateau State can promote equity, fairness, and unity among the different local government areas.

In addition Kanam is one of the local government areas in Plateau State with a rich history, culture and notable personalities; the local government has over the years produced notable politicians, such as:

Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman, the current Plateau State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, a politician with a compassionate heart of Gold, an empathetic leader who 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 state. 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.  

This astute has been demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering meaningful connections with his people. 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.

Rt. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi: is Member of the House Representative, representing Pankshin, Kanke, Kanam Federal Constituency, a distinguished politician known for his exceptional representation, generosity and leadership acumen, Yusuf is also an incredibly resourceful person. He has a knack for finding creative solutions to challenges. This adaptability allows him to thrive in various political offices he had occupied, and it is a testament to his unwavering commitments to the welfare of the people he represent.

Chief Amos Gizo who is currently the Board Chairman Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority is a charismatic political leader and statesman who combine royalty, with business, media and politics, recognized for his efforts in promoting democratic governance and party politics. Gizo's commitment to fostering an inclusive political dialogue has made him a trusted figure among APC party faithful’s, particularly his stance during the 2023 gubernatorial elections, some are of the opinion that APC wouldn’t have lost the election if they had listen to him.

Amos Gizo had passionately and faithfully advocated for a free and fair primary election. His ability to mobilize a large crowd of followership earned him a lot of respect from President Tinubu’s Camp.

Hansi Suleiman, is indeed a highly respected figure in Plateau politics, admired for his wisdom and extensive experience. As a seasoned politician and entrepreneur, he has made significant contributions to the state’s development. Notably, he contested for the senate seat to represent Plateau central senatorial district in 2023, demonstrating his passion for public service and desire to make a positive impact.

Suleiman’s leadership skills, loyalty and dedication to the PDP have earned him recognition and admiration, highlighting as a key factors in his political career.

Dr. Saleh: is another Kanam great personality, a highly accomplished individual who has made valuable contributions to humanity and Plateau state, his names continue to resonate in political discourse.

Hon. Dayyabu Garga is the immediate former Council Chairman Kanam LGC and a one-time commissioner in the Cabinet of Governor Simon Bako Lalong, is a prominent political figure in the emerging governance landscape of Plateau state. The reaction generated when he defected from APC to PDP is indeed a testament to his political worth and value. This move has likely sent shockwaves through the political landscape, sparking intense debate and discussion. The fact that his defection to PDP has generated such a strong reaction suggests that he is a highly influential and respected figure in Plateau politics. His decision to join PDP has likely been seen as a major upheaval for the party, and a significant blow to APC, which is grappling to rise after suffering a major set-back in the state.

Rt. Hon Saleh Shehu Yipmong, a trailblazing politician who made history as the longest-serving two term deputy speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly is a testament to his loyalty, dedication and leadership, a feat achievable by few individuals, combine with his smiling, and humble disposition has earned him a lot of respect.

Kanam has a treasure trove of talented and accomplished individuals, both within the country and across the diaspora; the personalities mentioned above are indeed just the tip of the ice-berg, representing a small but significant fraction of the high-achieving Kanam sons and daughters who are making waves globally.

In conclusion it is worth to note that Kanam people have indeed made significant contributions to the development of Plateau state and Nigeria as a whole. As a local government Area in Plateau state, Kanam has produced notable individuals who have excelled in various field, including politics, education, and entrepreneurship.

Therefore, rotating the Plateau State Central Senatorial race to Kanam Local Government Area is a necessary step towards promoting equity, fairness, and justice in the senatorial district. It would provide an opportunity for other areas to produce leaders, bring about fresh ideas and perspectives, and ultimately lead to better representation and service delivery to the people of the senatorial district.

PLASU Boosts Agricultural Program with Tractor Donation

Plateau State University Boosts Agricultural Program with Tractor Donation*

Plateau State University has received a tractor donation from the State Government, strengthening its commitment to expanding agricultural training and production programs. Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Shedrack Best commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for the donation, which aims to enhance the university's agricultural capabilities.

The tractor donation is part of the Governor's agricultural transformation plan, specifically the Agro Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape Project. The initiative seeks to improve agricultural training and production across the state. Governor Mutfwang on January 20 expressed his administration’s commitment to mechanize agriculture in Plateau State, lamenting only 0.05% is currently mechanized. 

"We aim to take away the hoes and cutlasses and bring technology to meet the food needs of Plateau State," said Governor Mutfwang, represented by Samson Bugama, the State's Commissioner of Agriculture. The Governor announced plans to acquire more tractors, power tillers, and establish state plantations to encourage youths in agriculture.

“Last year, we cultivated 6,000 hectares but this year we’re looking at cultivating 15,000 hectares for vulnerable communities, schools in particular. So one of the things His Excellency has asked us to do is to go around secondary schools and cultivate their land just so we can build interest in agriculture,” the Governor said.   

“But the first thing we need to do is strengthen the institutions that help our young people to learn agriculture and takeaway the drudgery that comes with agriculture,” he said. 

The university was among five institutions to receive tractors donated by the World Bank. Despite receiving only one unit, the university's excitement was palpable. Acting Vice Chancellor Best highlighted the university's agricultural resources, including a dam, the Agricultural Services and Training Corporation (ASTC), and vast land.

“Our young students will be excited to see these machines. They will use it for learning. It will motivate them and there are other agricultural resources around us,” said Prof. Best. 

“We are a rural university and we are located at the hub of agriculture. A lot of farming activity takes place there,” Professor Best said. 

“So whether it is in research or in actual tillage of land or in animal husbandry, in all the areas, when we bring our faculty of Agriculture which is young and ambitious and growing into place, we believe that we have a lot to contribute including to other agencies who have benefited today from this gesture,” Professor Best stated.

*Masara Kim* 

Acting Public Relations Officer

Plateau State University, Bokkos

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)*