Georgel Cancer Foundation Partners with Women Doctors in Plateau: A Fresh Push against Cancer

BY WALBE OGAK

The fight against cancer in Plateau State has received a new lease of life as the Georgel Cancer Foundation formally unveiled its advocacy programme during a visit to the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Plateau State Chapter.

The Foundation was birthed out of a painful personal tragedy: the loss of late George Longkat, who passed away last year after a courageous but difficult battle with cancer. To immortalize his memory and transform grief into purpose, his family members and close friends came together to establish the organization, aptly named after him.

Speaking during the courtesy visit, the Founder and Chairperson of the Foundation, Mrs. Retsum George, emphasized that the initiative is driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility.

“Cancer is not just a disease that affects the patient alone — it affects families, communities, and society at large. We went through a painful experience with George, and I do not want any other family to walk that road without the right information, support, and care,” she stated.

She explained that the Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness, provide support systems for cancer patients, and advocate for improved access to early detection and treatment services across Plateau State and Nigeria at large.

President of the Medical Women Association Of Nigeria Dr. Nana Awaya Emeribe, warmly received the Foundation, describing it as a timely intervention, stating that Cancer continues to claim lives in alarming numbers, and late presentation due to lack of awareness is a major challenge in our communities. We are happy to see a family turn their grief into a beacon of hope. We will work hand in hand with Georgel Cancer Foundation to strengthen advocacy and promote preventive health education.”

The doctors pledged to collaborate in areas of community sensitization, outreach programmes, screenings, and counseling services targeted at women, youth, and rural communities.

Health experts note that cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and Nigeria is no exception. Reports indicate that thousands of Nigerians are diagnosed annually, but only a fraction received proper treatment due to poor awareness, late diagnosis, and limited healthcare infrastructure. In Plateau State, many cases go unreported until advanced stages, making survival rates slim.

The Georgel Cancer Foundation seeks to bridge this gap through education, partnerships, and direct patient support.

Mrs. Retsum disclosed that the Foundation plans to roll out school-based campaigns, community workshops, and patient support schemes. She noted that one of their key priorities will be to ensure that women and young people are educated on early detection, healthy lifestyles, and access to medical screening services.

She added that collaboration with professional associations like MWAN will give the Foundation a stronger platform to reach wider audiences, particularly women and children who often serve as the first point of health care in families.

The Foundation’s work is not only a memorial to late George Longkat but also a bold step towards rewriting the narrative of cancer in Plateau State. “We want his name to stand as a reminder that while cancer is deadly, it can be fought with knowledge, compassion, and collective action,” Mrs. Retsum said.

The visit to MWAN marks one of the Foundation’s first official outings, signaling its commitment to forge meaningful partnerships in the health sector. Both organizations reaffirmed that the fight against cancer cannot be left to government alone but require civil society, professionals, families, and communities to act together.

 

As the Georgel Cancer Foundation embarks on this journey, it carries the message that tragedy can be transformed into a source of strength — and that every life lost to cancer can inspire renewed determination to save others.

BOSAT Members from Pankshin North Declare Support for Bldr. Raphael Rume“A Vote for Progress, A Vote for True Leadership

The Like Minds of Bukuru Old Students Association Technical (BOSAT) from Pankshin North Constituency have unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Builder Raphael Rume, affirming their total support for his aspiration to represent Pankshin North in the Plateau State House of Assembly.

In a joint declaration, the members described Bldr. Rume as a visionary leader whose sterling performance as President of BOSAT has not only transformed the association but also contributed significantly to the growth and development of their alma mater.

“Through his leadership, BOSAT has witnessed remarkable transformation, with innovative strategies that elevated the value of technical education,” the group stated. “His forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence are the hallmarks of true leadership.”

The Like Minds stressed that their endorsement was borne out of conviction, not sentiment, noting that Bldr. Rume’s track record proves he has the passion, competence, and integrity required to deliver meaningful representation to the people of Pankshin North.

“As constituents who have closely observed his leadership journey, we are convinced that Bldr. Rume has all it takes to make a lasting impact in our constituency. His vision for development and people-centered representation is what Pankshin North needs at this time,” the statement added.

The BOSAT members, therefore, issued a clarion call to all eligible voters in Pankshin North Constituency to rally behind Bldr. Raphael Rume in the coming election, assuring that his emergence will usher in progress, inclusiveness, and sustainable development.

“Vote for progress. Vote for Bldr. Raphael Rume,” the group declared.

If Kefiano is to be celebrated

By Katdapba Yunana Gobum

Caveat: I have met Kefas Wungak Ropshik once on a personal appointment for the sake of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Plateau State Council.

Sometime in 2017, I had gone in company of the then new chairman, Comrade Paul Jatau to solicit for his commitment to help the Council, given that he had just mounted the saddle and wanted to make the difference, while he lasted.

The fact that we did not get his buy-in did not make us lose faith in what the chairman wanted to achieve for the NUJ.

It is history today, given that the Council under him, moved in the direction most members may not have anticipated. He made a name and put the NUJ in the limelight; as members wanted.

Kefiano had different ideas of what he wanted to channel his resources to on his sleeves. I shall soon return to this for clarity.

Sometime in October 2023, I requested that I had something to write about him. In fact, I had chatted him to make his CV available. Three days later, I was abducted-an event that changed the course of my request.

I laid low after the sad development. And because his CV never came, I dropped the idea, so that it won't be as if I was a bother to him.

While I settled to get it done some day, it was evident there were a number of causes that had preoccupied Kefiano's attention. And they have been for long looking for an outlet to manifest.

Like or hate it, they were genuine as he needed to pursue using his God-given resources to bring them to fruition.

They included, but were not limited to widows and children who have suffered indignities of attacks. They were not chosen nor selected; he went from one community and another to pick those whose parents had died.

He had no special preference, all that mattered were children whose future would be truncated had he not appeared on the scene.

I am aware they have been settled in the best conducive environment while giving them the life they may have missed.

For the widows, nothing can be kinder and acceptable for a son to be available in their various dark hours after the loss of their husbands.

On different platforms, I have heard and read prayers said for him by them and others who have been assisted and empowered, to get started in life.

There are those who are aware of numerous interventions that were orchestrated with his imprimatur. They have become a yardstick for the identification of some men of means who often utilise their resources and opportunities to serve society.

The relaunch of Chillers by New Yorker; an initiative by him, from all intent and purposes opened the needed chapter for nightlife and tourism in Jos.

Jos, has always been the city to beat in entertainment and the combination of business and luxury. Somehow those areas had been crippled, no thanks to insecurity; their revival have been on the ascendancy.

For Jos to reclaim its vantage position as a lively and robust hub for entertainment and business, whatever initiative is targeted towards revival should not only acknowledged but be supported.

Above it all, those who are hired to superintend over businesses must be jealous to secure them as personal items. Stories abound of how businesses are crippled after their birth as managers see such as a means to line their pockets.

Electrifying performances have been taking place there. Peruzzi and Tekno were some of the early callers. There are many other big names that have made fun lovers come in droves to the facility.

If this facility was just a happenstance, some may take it as a fluke. But consider these initiatives: Kefiano Hub, Kefiano Autos and Kefiano Farms; they were planned and birthed to benefit the society.

Somewhere outside Jos, a massive 750 hectares of land are being utilised for the cultivation of different crops. He is one of the few people in the state who can boast of a project like that.

Only recently, he has been in the news on different platforms showcasing the facility to the world that he has being able to turn those hectares of land into profitable business.

It is not possible to forget in a hurry his entrance into politics at the highest level in the state. Even for joining the fray late, he made a mark coming second as candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2022.

He is, as it has been stated severally, he wants to contest for the position of Senator, Plateau Central District using the same platform in 2027.

For almost two decades and counting, God has enabled him sacrifice his resources into business development, human capital, education, healthcare provision, assistance to prison inmates and their release, skills empowerment, cultural affairs, food feeding programme for widows and the less privileged people.

For years and still counting, the Garram-born businessman has related well with a broad based spectrum of people in different communities.

But if there is any age group that has remained close to his heart, the youth stand out. I have heard him say: If there is anything I can do to engage the youth to bring peace I shall gladly do. The youth need support through various efforts particularly in farming and other initiatives.

On peace, this is what he has to say: We must contribute our quarters to making Plateau a place to live in. No effort is too small to put into peace in the state.

There may be many reasons why he is being honoured, but if  Kefiano is to be celebrated, you must remember the above contributions he has made to humanity here and elsewhere.

Note: This is not a paid political position. I have always believed that people who touch lives and affect communities positively; no matter where they are from should be encouraged by blowing their trumpet.

He is one of such, otherwise, I would have sent Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik a bill to settle the effort.

CP ADESINA PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT TO FAMILY OF LATE INSPECTOR LASARE JEREMIAH

The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, psc in company of members of his management team, paid a condolence visit to the family of Inspector Lasare Jeremiah, who was attacked by a mob which inflicted serious injuries on him, and later led to his tragic death in Bassa LGA while discharging his Constitutional duties.

While extending his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased officer, CP Adesina expressed profound sorrow and regret over the unfortunate incident. He described the officer as a very intelligent and dutiful forensic expert and a fine detective who has played a vital role in the successes recorded by the Command. He described the loss as irreparable, and prayed for God's comfort and peace to envelop the entire family during this difficult time.

The Commissioner of Police further assured the family of late Inspectior Lasare Jeremiah, that the Command will do everything within the ambit of its constitutional powers to ensure that the perpetrators of this act are arrested and made to face the full weight of the law. He further informed them that about eighteen (18) suspects have been arrested in connection to the case and will be charged to court upon conclusion of our investigation.

The family of the deceased officer appreciated the CP for standing in solidarity with them in their hour of grief. They prayed that God will avert the reoccurrence of such an incidence in the Nigeria Police Force and grant all Police officers the strength to carry out their duties diligently..

DSP ALFRED ALABO, anipr

POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (PPRO),

PLATEAU STATE COMMAND, 

JOS.

September 12, 2025

Bldr. Raphael Rume: From Building Structures to Building Lives – A Professional’s Journey into Politics

By WALBE OGAK 

As Plateau State prepares for another political transition, one name steadily gaining attention is that of Bldr. Raphael Rume, a builder by profession and now an aspirant for the Plateau State House of Assembly. Known for his technical expertise and passion for community development, Rume is pitching himself to voters as the candidate who will bring “competence you can trust, leadership you deserve.”

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in Plateau State, Rume’s early years were shaped by discipline, resilience, and a drive for excellence. He pursued a career in the built environment, earning qualifications that positioned him among Nigeria’s respected professionals in the construction and management industry. His academic background laid the foundation for his rise as a builder, consultant, and now a political leader-in-the-making.

Professional Career and Achievements

Rume has decades of experience spanning construction, project management, facilities management, and consultancy. His career has been defined by a consistent track record of excellence, resourcefulness, and accountability.

He is not only a member but also a fellow of key professional bodies, a testament to his standing among peers. His affiliations include:

Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) – Corporate Member (M0003969)

Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) – Registered Member (3334)

Nigerian Institute of Building in Facilities Management (NIBIFM) – Corporate and Fellow Member (NIBIFM/C/556; NAFM/F/0087)

Global Institute of Project Management (AGIPM, CPM) – Chartered Project Manager (0312623-P)

Global Institute of Facility Management (AGIPM, CFM) – Certified Facility Manager (0412633-F)

Institute of Management Consultants of Nigeria (IMC-NIGERIA) – Fellow Member (ABJ.4455.21)

Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN) – Chartered Member (SR/2266)

Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering (NATE) – Associate Member (A-832)

Through these engagements, he has contributed to industry growth, mentored young professionals, and promoted ethical practice in Nigeria’s building and management sectors.

Community Service and Grassroots Engagement

Beyond his professional achievements, Rume has been deeply involved in community service. He has supported educational initiatives, provided mentorship for young builders, and facilitated community development projects aimed at improving living standards.

For him, “politics must be about people, not self-interest.” His philosophy of service is anchored on inclusivity, youth empowerment, and grassroots development.

Vision for Plateau State

Rume’s entry into politics is driven by his belief that technical knowledge must meet legislative action. If elected into the Plateau State House of Assembly, his vision centers on:

Infrastructure Development: Championing laws and policies that prioritize road networks, public schools, hospitals, and water systems.

Youth and Women Empowerment: Promoting vocational training, entrepreneurship opportunities, and support for women-led businesses.

Accountable Leadership: Ensuring transparency in government spending and effective oversight of public projects.

Security and Peacebuilding: Supporting community-driven strategies to complement government security efforts.

Education and Human Capital: Advocating for better funding, infrastructure, and teacher welfare in schools.

 

Slogans and Campaign Message

Rume’s campaign is anchored on slogans that resonate with both his profession and political aspirations:

“Building People, Building Plateau.”

“From Building Structures to Building Lives.”

“Competence You Can Trust, Leadership You Deserve.”

“A Builder for Development, A Voice for the People.”

According to him, “I have built structures, managed resources, and delivered results in both the public and private sector. Now, I want to build laws, policies, and opportunities that will uplift the people of Plateau State.”

 

Conclusion

As the political landscape heats up, many analysts believe Bldr. Raphael Rume represents a new wave of leadership—leaders drawn from professional backgrounds with proven capacity to deliver. His combination of competence, integrity, and grassroots connection makes him a formidable aspirant for the Plateau State House of Assembly.

For voters seeking a candidate who blends expertise with service, his message is clear: “Together, we can build Plateau.”

Jos Women Take the Lead: From Training to Action, Demanding Roads, Inputs, and Security.

Jos, August 19, 2025 – Women and adolescent girls in Vwang (Jos South LGA) and Tudun Wada (Jos North LGA) have stepped forward from the training hall to the village square, demanding better roads, access to farm inputs, improved security, and economic empowerment.

The civic action follows a Women and Girls’ Empowerment Training Programme implemented by the Development Research and Project Centre (dRPC) through its NGO Support Initiative (NSI), in partnership with Heal the Youth Foundation (HTYF), a Jos-based grassroots empowerment organisation.

The programme trained 50 women and 20 adolescent girls in leadership, advocacy, and enterprise development. According to organisers, the goal was simple yet transformative: to strengthen women’s participation in decision-making and make community development a collective responsibility.

Following the training, participants engaged traditional rulers and community stakeholders in Vwang and Tudun Wada, presenting pressing concerns. Among the issues raised were: lack of financial capacity to expand businesses, poor access roads to farmlands, difficulty obtaining fertilizer and farm inputs, as well as inadequate educational and skills training facilities.

On August 15, Mrs. Paulina Yakubu, leader of the Sago VSLA women’s group, led a delegation to the palace of the Gwom Rwey of Vwang, Da Gyang Choji Ballak. The women urged inclusion in empowerment schemes, improved farmland security, rehabilitation of rural roads, and fair distribution of agricultural inputs.

Responding, the Gwom Rwey revealed that a 27.3 km road project linking several villages had already been surveyed and proposed for the 2026 budget. He also encouraged the women to register with the Berom Women Development Association (BEWDA) to strengthen their chances of government and donor support. As a gesture of solidarity, he donated ₦20,000 to the Sago VSLA savings group and pledged continued backing.

A similar meeting took place on August 19 at the residence of the Gwom Jishe of Tudun Wada, Da Ezekiel Kwon Dalyop, who commended the women’s initiative. He assured them that their concerns would be relayed to relevant authorities, stressing that women’s voices must not be sidelined in development planning.

These engagements signal a shift in grassroots civic participation in Jos South and Jos North, with women and adolescent girls moving from beneficiaries of interventions to active advocates for community change. Next steps include registering women’s groups with BEWDA and other networks, sustained advocacy for road and security improvements, and ensuring women’s fair inclusion in agricultural support schemes.

From Vwang to Tudun Wada, the message is clear: “When women are trained, they mobilise; and when they mobilise, communities are transformed.”

Macron’s Troubles Seen as Backlash for Turning Away from Israel

French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to champion the recognition of a Palestinian state at the United Nations is now being viewed by some observers as the beginning of his political unraveling. Once hailed as a leading voice in Europe, Macron’s bold push—set to take center stage at the UN on September 22, 2025—is increasingly seen as a gamble that has backfired.

While the initiative drew applause from sections of the European Union, Macron’s government has since slipped into chaos. The French Parliament’s unanimous vote of no confidence in Prime Minister François Bayrou has left the administration in disarray, forcing Bayrou to prepare his resignation and exposing Macron’s weakening grip on power.

For critics, the timing is too telling to ignore. By sidelining Israel and leaning heavily toward Palestinian recognition, Macron is said to have miscalculated both politically and spiritually. The mounting crises—political instability, public discontent, and a collapsing economy strained by years of war expenditure in Ukraine—are increasingly interpreted as a form of reckoning.

France, once a key ally of Israel in Western diplomacy, now appears isolated. Macron’s turn against Israel is being framed not only as a diplomatic misstep but as an act with consequences, eroding his credibility both at home and abroad. To many, the turbulence shaking his government looks less like coincidence and more like punishment for abandoning a trusted partner in the Middle East.