Ngolong Ngas Cautions Against Politicization of Traditional Festivals in Ngas Land

The Ngolong Ngas, Nde JIka Golit, has caution against the display of  parties banners and posters during Cultural festival in Ngas land.

 He highlighted that the primary objective of the recent Ngas Festival of Arts and Culture  which took place at the Pankhsin Mini stadium was to unite the Ngas people and showcase their rich cultural heritage. 

 In a press Statement issued by  Wukaska Bako Gowon the Palace's  Press Secretary,  expressed gratitude to the Ngas community for celebrating his first year which coincides with the Pusdung in a magnificent way. 

The Ngolong Ngas  thanked His Excellency, Governor Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, the special guest of honour, representatives of other Excellencies, Dr Nentawe Yilwada Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and poverty reduction, Senators, representative of other Ministers,Members of house of representative, States  Assemblies  and Traditional Rulers for honoring the invitation.

The  Statement  commended the Ngas Development Association for a successfully and befiting  festival,however, expressed disappointment with Political party leaders  who took advantage of the festival to promote their Political Parties by allowing   supporters to display party banners, wore political attires instead of costumes and Traditional Wears,  undermining the Cultural Festival's purpose.

He pointed out that as the Custodian of Ngas Culture and Traditions, the Ngolong Ngas, condemned the politicization of the festival, emphasizing that future events will not tolerate such barbaric behaviours and called on leaders of political parties whose members created confusion to tender public apology.

He reiterated that the Festival aimed to foster unity, promote cultural heritage of the Ngas Nation for the future generations, pray for God's protection, and usher in rain  for  farming which is the main occupation of his people.

Regarding security challenges, the Apex King  appreciated Governor Mutfwang's  efforts and those of other leaders,particularly the  contributions of Chairmen of  Pankshin and Kanke  Local Government Councils, Honourable Lapching Golime and Felix Amos Gonung by aiding volunteers security agencies  to check mate activities of criminals along Pankshin, Kanke, other routes and call on citizens to continue to support Government at all levels.

SGD:Wukaska Bako Gowon.

Media Officer to Ngolong Ngas.

HON. (AMB.) DANIEL ASAMA AGO VISITS BURNT JOS TERMINUS MARKET, CALL FOR URGENT INTERVENTION

Hon. (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago, Member Representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, paid a sympathy visit to the devastated Jos Terminus Market to commiserate with traders, business owners, and families affected by the tragic fire outbreak that engulfed the market in the early hours of today.

During the visit, Hon. Daniel was received by market leaders across various segments, who recounted the harrowing experience of discovering the market engulfed in flames. According to their accounts, despite the timely arrival of fire service personnel, efforts to control the blaze were thwarted by the resistance of unruly individuals who prevented access to the scene. This unfortunate disruption contributed significantly to the complete destruction of the market, affecting thousands of shops and traders.

Describing the incident as both a "deeply distressing tragedy" and a "recurring decimal," Hon. Daniel lamented the repeated losses the community has suffered. He emphasized that the tragedy goes beyond the loss of structures and goods. It represents a severe blow to the economic heartbeat of Plateau State and the livelihoods of countless families.

"This is not just a market that went up in flames for the second time," Hon. Daniel remarked. "This is the economic foundation of countless families, the pride of our state, and a hub that has served Plateau and beyond for decades."

He also expressed deep sorrow over the reported loss of a life; an individual who died while attempting to help during the chaos, extending his condolences to the bereaved family.

Hon. Daniel acknowledged the profound psychological and financial impact the incident has had on the victims. He called for an immediate and coordinated response from the Plateau State Government, federal authorities, and emergency agencies. He stressed the urgent need for damage assessment, financial relief for affected traders, and a robust, long-term rebuilding plan that incorporates fire safety standards and disaster resilience.

"We must not only comfort those who have lost so much," he stated, "but also take concrete steps to prevent future tragedies. This includes fire safety audits, structured emergency response systems, and investment in modern infrastructure to protect our vital commercial centers."

Reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his constituents, Hon. Daniel pledged to appeal for assistance on their behalf and work closely with stakeholders in that regard.

He concluded by calling on private organizations, humanitarian bodies, and well-meaning Nigerians to support ongoing relief efforts and stand in solidarity with the victims during this painful chapter.

Signed

Dave Boldmind Jonathan,

Press Secretary to Hon (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago (The Anki Kaboh).

FEDERAL AND PLATEAU STATE GOVERNMENTS LAUNCH WASE GRAZING LOT, UNVEIL COMPREHENSIVE LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT PLAN

...Governor Mutfwang says the initiative will help curb insecurity

In a landmark stride toward transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, has officially launched the Wase Grazing Lot in Plateau State. 

The unveiling ceremony, held at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, marks a major milestone in advancing livestock development and fostering peaceful coexistence in Plateau and beyond.

While presenting the Wase Feeding Lot System, the Minister underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to repositioning the livestock sector into a modern, productive, and resilient driver of Nigeria’s agricultural economy.

“This initiative is a joint effort between the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Plateau State Government to establish a Livestock Village,” the Minister stated. “The facility will include pasture irrigation systems for both wet and dry seasons, a veterinary clinic, a primary health care centre, basic education facilities, staff accommodation, and a security post. With proper implementation, we anticipate the production of high-quality milk for both domestic and international markets.”

Welcoming the Federal delegation, Plateau State Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s foresight in establishing the Ministry of Livestock Development, noting that the initiative addresses long-standing sectoral challenges and opens new avenues for economic growth.

“This is a visionary step whose time has come,” Governor Mutfwang declared. “At the inception of the Ministry, some had their doubts. But today, what has been unveiled shows a clear and strategic roadmap—not only for boosting our GDP but also for job creation and entrepreneurship. The livestock value chain is enormous. If properly harnessed, we could build a billion-dollar livestock economy right here in Plateau State.”

The Governor further emphasized the initiative’s potential to significantly reduce insecurity, especially the persistent violent attacks  that have plagued many communities.

“If we can properly address issues around pastoral livestock practices, we will eliminate a major root cause of insecurity. The friction between farmers and herders will no longer exist. This initiative provides a path toward the peace we have long yearned for,” he stated.

Governor Mutfwang also highlighted ongoing state-level interventions aimed at modernizing livestock infrastructure, including the planned remodeling of the Jos abattoir to handle up to 500 cattle daily. He reiterated the state’s readiness to align with the Federal Government’s livestock development vision.

“This is a day of joy and a divine moment for Plateau State,” the Governor said. “Our institutions, researchers, and citizens are fully prepared to collaborate in driving Nigeria’s livestock transformation.”

The Governor expressed appreciation to Dr. Kingsley, a long-time technical partner, for his unwavering support toward Plateau’s agricultural growth, particularly the introduction of Napier grass as a sustainable animal feed option.

Gyang Bere

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

April 30, 2025

ADDRESS DELIVERED BY HIS MAJESTY, NDE JIKA GOLIT, THE NGOLONG NGAS AT THE 2025 PUSDUNG CELEBRATION

Our most Distinguished Chairman of PUSDUNG 2025, Your Excellency the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, your Excellency the Executive Governor of Plateau State, and other Excellencies here present, Distinguished Senators, Hon Members of the National Assembly, Hon. Ministers the Rt Hon Speaker and Home Members of the House of Assembly, Your Royal Highnesses,Hon Commissioners and Special Advisers, Hon LGA Chairmen and Hon Councillors,

Members of Pankhsin and Kanke joint Traditional Council, Distinguished Invited Guests, Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen.

Today, I stand before you not as your king, but as a grateful servant of our great people with a heart overflowing with thanksgiving to the Almighty God who has granted us life, peace, and the rare privilege to gather under one sky to celebrate Pusdung 2025.

This sacred gathering is more than a festival. It is a resounding declaration of our heritage, a reaffirmation of our unity, and a celebration of the divine identity that binds us as Ngas people, proud, resilient, and forward looking.

Today also marks a full year since I was entrusted with the sacred mantle of leadership as the Paramount Traditional Ruler of this great race 

Let me, from the depths of a grateful heart, express my appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang for the peaceful and honorable atmosphere that heralded my ascension to this ancient and noble throne.

It has been a year of sacred duty, a path lit with sacrifice, illuminated by wisdom,  anchored in service to  the sons and daughters of the Ngas Nation, those within the valleys of our homeland and those spread across the world, I am eternally indebted. You stood firm through the tempests of transition, through the fire of trials. You believed. You endured, and together, we have emerged stronger. From your faith, I drew strength.I thank Almighty God for devine grace and strength, and I thank you, my people for your unwavering loyalty.

Today, I proclaim with Royal Authority and _Ancestral_ conviction that the unity of the Ngas Nation is not only intact, it is unshakable and,we have risen above division as we march forward, shoulder to shoulder, toward a glorious destiny.

As we celebrate this year’s 2025 Pusdung, the first in the history of my ascending the throne of our forefathers, I now unveil key Traditional Council's priorities, a blueprint for the continued renaissance of our land and our people:

1  YOUTH EMPOWERMENT, EDUCATION, AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY.

The Youth are the heartbeat of our future. We shall invest in their minds, harness their creativity and support innovations. While Education shall remain a priority not just in classrooms, but in skill, in craft, and in purpose. Return to the land, our eternal inheritance. We will seek strategy partnerships to equip our farmers and ensure that our land continues to feed both soul and body.

2  CULTURAL PRESERVATION, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT, SECURITY AND PEACE BUILDING.

Our culture is the crown we wear with dignity,we will promote our Traditions, build institution of heritage and position Ngas land as beacon of tourism. I therefore call on Government, security agencies and all of us to be vigilant custodians of peace.

3. INTER -ETHNIC HARMONY, POLITICS  AND RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP.

We cherish our long standing ties with neighboring communities and ethnic groups. Let us deepen the wells of friendship, foster collaboration, and build bridges of unity that will outlast time and let our political leaders  rise above rancor and embrace maturity. Let us support those in office, not with envy, but with encouragement. Leadership must unite, not divide. Politics must heal, not wound.

In conclusion, I once again thank everyone who has come to witness our rich cultural heritage, I therefore summon every Ngas son and daughter to stand tall, to remain proud of who we are, the spirit of our Ancestors calls us forward and with some of you in high positions, the eyes of the world are upon us as we continue to smile as  united people with  purpose.

Let us thrive together as custodians of a proud legacy.

Let us march together into a future that bears our name in gold.

Once more congratulations to all of you on the occasion of Pusdung 2025 and my one year on the exalted Traditional Throne of the Ngas Race.

May God bless the Ngas people,

 Plateau State and the  Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Thank you.

EASTER IS NOT A STORY, BUT A MESSAGE

(Modest Thoughts with Ayuba, Yilgak'ha, loisayuba420@gmail.com, 20th April, 2025)

This devotional exposition begins with some texts from Scripture and will end with another from it. This is because, the message of the cross is a controversy depending on which side one is looking at it. Humans are as saved or destroyed as the amount of correct information available to them with the context of faith as a divine enterprise.

In Romans 4:25 the Scripture says, 'He was delivered over to death (on the cross) for our justification': 1Corinthians 1:18-31 reads: "The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God"; while 2 Timothy 2:11-13, goes: "Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself." These texts collectively mean that, the benefit anyone derives from the message of the Cross depends on how it is understood and received!

What Easter represents to me is that, Christ died on the cross of calvary for my sake, your sake and our sake. He went through the agony of rejection, betrayal, death and uncertainty of grave but overcame that i may be victorious too. He demonstrated his power over pain, death, grave and, above all, restores hope to mankind who, through sin, was due for eternal condemnation. He conquered fear, and enthrone freedom for man through the mystery of His death, and resurrection!

Easter, therefore, is about love, hope and redemption. The Bible in John 3:16 says: 'For God so love the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believe in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.' The entire message of the cross starts and ends with this generous and all inclusive love offer to mankind!

At Easter, Christ died and resurrected. If Christ has not been raised, our faith is futile; we would have still be in sins (1Corinthians 15:17- NIV). In his resurrection, hope is birthed hence the assertion: Christ in us the hope of glory! (Colossians 1:27)

The redemption that came through Christ is full measured. The devil came to steal, kill and destroy but Jesus came to restore and give life more abundantly!

The benefit that comes with the gift of Jesus Christ is holistic. In 2 Peter 1: 3 - 4, the scripture says: God, in his divine power, has given us all that we need for life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: He has give us exceedingly great and precious promises: That by these holistic provisions, we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world!

The death and resurrection of christ was, indeed, a mystery onto the salvation of mankind but his antagonists did not know. Hear this: "None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory" (1Corinthians 2:8). To them, an enemy, a bad competitor in power play was eliminated, but little did they know that by killing him, they have promoted him into the saviour he was destined to be. Hallelujah!

The moral lesson here is that, never plot evil against anyone because you may end up promoting your perceived enemy to position of prominence and relevance. Those who plot to bring others down shall not see the top. The story of Haman, a high ranking Government Official, who plotted evil against Jews, in the book of Esther Chapter 3-7, added substance to this profound lesson. If they do, their rise will be short-lived in time. Only love which Easter, practically, represents blesses!

In His death and resurrection, Jesus Christ became the proverbial phoenix. From the ashes of His death, he resurrected and, ushered mankind into life imperishable. In other words His sacrifice is the seed and and secret of eternal regeneration for human, particularly, those who believe Christ as Lord and Saviour!

How many hymn shall we sing today for this great redemption buffet? Please join me in this worship session:

A. Rugged Cross: On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,

the emblem of suffering and shame;

and I love that old cross where the dearest and best

for a world of lost sinners was slain.

Refrain:

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross,

till my trophies at last I lay down;

I will cling to the old rugged cross,

and exchange it some day for a crown.

2 O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,

has a wondrous attraction for me;

for the dear Lamb of God left his glory above

to bear it to dark Calvary. [Refrain]

3 In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,

a wondrous beauty I see,

for 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,

to pardon and sanctify me. [Refrain]

4 To that old rugged cross I will ever be true,

its shame and reproach gladly bear;

then he'll call me some day to my home far away,

where his glory forever I'll share. [Refrain]

B. He Arose (Refrain): Up from the grave He arose

With a mighty triumph over His foes

He arose a Victor from the dark domain

And He lives forever with His saints to reign

C. Jesus Paid It All (Refrain): Jesus paid it all,

All to Him I owe;

Sin had left a crimson stain,

He washed it white as snow.

D. In Christ Alone (Refrain): In Christ alone my hope is found;

He is my light, my strength, my song;

This cornerstone, this solid ground,

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.

What heights of love, what depths of peace,

When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!

My comforter, my all in all—

Here in the love of Christ I stand.

Here is a clarion call. Praise the Lord, the author and finisher of our faith. I can go on and on and on in praise and worship to Him. "Blessed be God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead" (1 Peter 1:3). He has give us victory, we shall, therefore, lift him higher, and higher and higher!

Easter is not a story, but a profound message of salvation. If you are a sinner like me, then, the message is absolutely for you, as it  is to me! Whoever does not receive Christ as personal Lord and Saviour will, certainly, meet Him as judge on the other side of eternity, hence the need to make hay while the sun shines!

Saraki: There is No Cause for Alarm, We’ll Reposition PDP*

Following the development in the Delta State Chapter of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), I have been inundated with phone calls from leaders and members of our party as well as various youths who have been active in promoting democracy and good governance in our country. Many of the callers want to know what my reaction is to the defection of top PDP leaders in Delta State and its impact on our party.

My view is that those who want to leave the PDP should leave now and let the rest of us who want to stay concentrate on rebuilding the party and refocusing it to play the role of a viable opposition that will provide a better alternative for the good people of Nigeria.

I am convinced that it is important for all Nigerians to work for the sustenance of democracy. And to sustain democracy, there must be viable choices for people at every point. Also, there must be a viable opposition to keep people’s hope alive and create credible alternatives to keep the government on its toes. A one-party state as being disingenuously designed by some people will not augur well for a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-cultural, multi-religious, and highly diversified society like ours. It is even more dangerous when we eliminate alternatives and make people hopeless.

Therefore, it is in the interest of Nigeria and the survival of our democracy for the opposition to be vibrant and strong enough with the capacity to replace the ruling party at any point. Thus, my charge to our party members is that the PDP is merely experiencing a rebirth. Those who want to leave the party should go and let those of us remaining have a clear view of who we are talking to and where their political loyalty lies. All we need is for those who want to stay back in PDP to show commitment and we can all work to rebuild the party.

This development has vindicated the stance of people like me who have decided to remain silent and watch events unfold. I have seen that there was no sincerity with supposed leaders of the opposition. One was not sure of the next person one was talking to.

My appeal to PDP members nationwide is that we should know that the sustenance of democracy is not a sprint. Rather, it is a marathon. It is not a knock-out football match series. It is a league. 24 hours is a long time in politics and nobody can predict how the dynamics will evolve in the coming weeks and months. That is why PDP members across the country should not be discouraged, disillusioned, disappointed, or demoralised by the development in Delta State. We should stay strong and focus on strengthening the party. It is not necessary at this point to lament why they left.

Our party members should also refrain from blaming our woes on the ruling party. That would be a lazy approach. They are playing politics to win elections. It is our responsibility as party members to ignore their antics and seize the moment and momentum to make our party stronger and better.

Yes, it is unbecoming and shocking for the running mate to the standard bearer of a leading party to abandon ship to join the ruling party. This is unprecedented and nobody should try to justify such an act with the talk of being put under pressure. It is simply a sign of how low we have sunk as a polity. The country is experiencing a collapse of leadership values.

These developments in the polity are the reason why I have always canvassed the idea that we should emphasize building and strengthening our institutions and not individuals. With the defection of the governor of Delta State, even if the party has only ten governors in its fold, the PDP is still in a good position to win the next round of elections..

Our numerous party members should know that the PDP is better with fewer members who are loyal, sincere, determined, dedicated, and committed to its ideas, ideals, and progress than to have so many who will identify with us in the afternoon and be romancing the ruling party in the night.

We still have about two years before the next election. That is a long time in politics. We have enough time to brace up to the challenge. There is nothing that prevents us from getting some governors from the other parties to join our ranks. My appeal to our young party members is that this defection is just a mere challenge to us to further mobilize and put our house in order. Also, our women's wing should seize the opportunity to help in the rebuilding mission. The PDP will come out stronger from this development.

I am very sure the various leadership organs of our party will soon make public their reaction to this development and convey the necessary meetings to strategize on how to strongly and strategically respond to it. Therefore there is no cause for alarm.

Our party members should not lose focus, hope, or the determination to win. We should see the current development as a challenge to rebuild and refocus the party. Tomorrow is very bright.

Signed

*Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, CON Former Senate President and Waziri of Ilori*

Hon. AMB. Daniel Asama Joins Governor Mutfwang, Top Plateau Leaders at High-Profile Security Stakeholders Meeting in Jos

The Member Representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency- Hon. AMB. Daniel Asama Ago was among the key figures in attendance at a high-level security stakeholders meeting convened by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang. The crucial meeting took place on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.

The significant gathering brought together an assembly of Plateau State’s top political and security leadership. Among those present were former Governors of the State, serving and former members of the National Assembly, members of the Plateau State Executive Council, lawmakers from the State House of Assembly, heads of security agencies, Traditional Rulers, and a host of other respected stakeholders from across the State.

The meeting was convened against the backdrop of the disturbing rise in security threats across various parts of the State, with particular focus on Bassa and Bokkos Local Government Areas. The primary objective was to deliberate on lasting strategies for peacebuilding, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and foster a united front toward tackling the persistent violence and restoring normalcy across affected communities.

Hon. AMB. Daniel Asama, in his remarks, lauded Governor Mutfwang for his proactive and inclusive leadership style in convening such a broad-based dialogue aimed at securing the future of Plateau State. He stressed the need for a multi-sectoral approach to resolving the crisis, highlighting that the task of achieving sustainable peace requires collective effort and political will.

“What we have seen today is leadership with vision and courage. This gathering reflects our collective responsibility to confront insecurity and protect our people. As a representative of Bassa/Jos North, I stand fully committed to any initiative that fosters peace, justice, and lasting development,” Hon. Asama stated.

He further reiterated the urgency for Federal support to address both the symptoms and root causes of insecurity in the Region- ranging from youth unemployment to land disputes, resource competition, and historical grievances. Hon. Asama assured the people of Plateau State that he would continue to use his platform in the National Assembly to advocate for increased Federal attention, investment, and intervention in the State’s security architecture.

The meeting ended on a note of renewed optimism, with a shared commitment among the leaders to work closely with security agencies and local communities. The resolutions emphasized intelligence sharing, community-based peacebuilding, and the protection of lives and property as priorities going forward.

Brian Lang,

Director of Media 

For: Hon. AMB. Daniel Asama Ago (The Anki Kaboh),

House of Representatives Member, Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, Abuja.