The Age Newspaper Online

       President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the renaming of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) after the former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon. The minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this after the meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by the President on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. It is now to be called The Yakubu Gowon University in honour of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon subject to the approval of the National Assembly. Idris said, “The third item is that there is also a decision taken by the Federal Executive Council to rename the University of Abuja to honour elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon. “The University of Abuja will, henceforth, be called Yakubu Gowon University. “Of course, the process will have to go to the National Assembly for all legislative work in that direction, but FEC has taken that decision to write to the National Assembly to change the name o...

Prof. Patrick Sunday Dakum, Chief Executive Officer of the CEO Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) and the Plateau State 2023 Gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has urged the LP supporters and the consolidation for greater movement worldwide not to entertain any sorts of discomfort as a result of the defection of some national assembly members who recently jumped ship.The receptive and people-centric philanthropist, Prof. Dakum, stated this through his media consultant, Mr. Shabul Mazadu, in an interaction with some selected journalists in his Dadin Kowa, Jos office on Sunday, December 15, 2024, where he maintained that the recent defection of Hon. From Dalyop, member representing Barkin Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency, and Hon. Alfred Ajang, member representing Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency in the green chamber of the national assembly, from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC) should cost none of our supporters sleep....

  The Board of the World Bank Group may meet today (Friday) to approve another loan bid of the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government. According to a document sighted by The PUNCH, the $500million is loan to boost rural access and agricultural marketing in the country. The loan sought by the government is targeted for the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project—Scale Up. The proposed loan further showed an intent to bridge the gap between rural communities and the broader marketplace, facilitating smoother access to agricultural markets, schools, and hospitals and promoting social cohesion among rural populations. According to a document, states willing to participate in the project are required to have a fully functional Roads Fund and Roads Agency with appointed boards and staff, and provisions for administrative costs in the state budget. The document noted, “While the eligibility for state participation under RAAMP required the drafting and placement ...

The Conference Of Autochthonous Ethnic Nationalities Communities Development Associations (CONAECDA), has established two institutions, Autochthonous Livestock Development Programme and the Autochthonous Livestock Producers Associations, for its members. This was disclosed by the Secretary General of CONAECDA, Suleiman A. D. Sukukum, in a statement in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.  The Secretary General disclosed that, the formation of the two institutions is aimed at promoting indigenous Livestock production, as well as to address the risk associated with livestock production in the country.  Sokukum added that the formation of the programmes, when implemented, will reduce the issue of farmers - herders conflicts and save the Autochthones the risks of losing their rich biodiversity. The statement directed all Community Development Associations in Central and parts of Northern Nigeria to key in, because of the many other benefits of the programmes, and to revert to ...

The Plateau State APC Chairman, Hon Rufus Bature has called on youths of the Party in the state to remain united as the party restrategizes for a come back in 2027. Barure who described the youths as the heartbeat of the Party but decried that they are also the headache of the Party.   Hon Bature explained that the youths often allow themselves to be used and be divided along tribal, religious, sectional and other lines that ends up tearing them apart, instead of uniting to champion a common cause.  Member Representing Pankshin, Kanke, Kanam, Federal House of Representatives, while addressing the vibrant and energetic young members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), at the Plateau State APC Youth Summit, took the opportunity to commend them for initiating the summit adding; “as we work together to bring more development to our dear State, there's a crucial role we all have to play in making this vision a reality.”  He reminded them that  APC remains the political party best po...

The Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, John Kyohroh Christopher, has issued a stern warning to individuals and organizations constructing structures on the Council's land at Pama Motor Adjacent Bauchi Junction to immediately halt further development. The Chairman who down handed the warning in company of his Deputy Sani Garkuwa, as well as members of the Legislative Council and top government functionaries after he undertaking an assessment visit to Jos North properties, including the Sarki Arab Primary Health Centre, Yan Doya,Yan Shanu and the old Pama motor park Bauchi Road Clinic. He interfaced with the Medical Supretendent of the respective Clinics and the business communities where he expressed the Council commitment secure government properties and rehabilitate facilities and to rebuild the Market to boost for business activities. During the visit, the Chairman expressed disappointment with some individuals who embarked on construction in the Counci...

The Family of Late Engr. Matawal Dauda Mafwil, Vom, Plateau State. Dear Family of Late Engr. Matawal Dauda Mafwil, On behalf of the Bokkos Local Government Council, I write to express our heartfelt condolences to your family on the passing of your beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, Engr. Matawal Dauda Mafwil, on December 1, 2024. Engr. Matawal was a remarkable individual whose life epitomized dedication, professionalism, and unwavering service to his community, state, and nation. His contributions to engineering, rural development, and human capacity building were monumental, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. As a devout Christian and committed member of his faith, Engr. Matawal demonstrated a deep sense of integrity, humility, and compassion, positively impacting the lives of many both within and outside the church. His devotion to God and service to humanity were truly exemplary and inspiring. The news of his passing is a profound loss to not only your ...

The Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Council, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, alongside his Deputy, Hon. Wallangko Mahwel Joseph, has congratulated Dr. Jim Pam Wayas on attaining his Ph.D. degree, describing the milestone as a testament to his dedication and excellence. In his congratulatory message, Hon. Amalau expressed gratitude to God Almighty for granting Dr. Wayas the opportunity and grace to achieve such a remarkable feat. He prayed for continued growth in enlightenment, accountability, and responsibility for the honoree. “This achievement is a significant step toward greater heights. I ask God to increase Dr. Wayas’s capacity for knowledge, insight, and foresight as he continues to lead and strive for excellence, even on international platforms,” Hon. Amalau said. The Chairman also praised Dr. Wayas for exemplifying ideals of leadership rooted in truth and integrity. He lauded his contributions toward enhancing and diversifying revenue as a young leader, especially in h...

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing the Edo North senatorial district, has expressed strong support for the financial autonomy of local governments in Nigeria. Oshiomhole’s comments came in response to the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling that upheld the financial autonomy of local governments. Speaking at a forum on local government autonomy organized by the House of Representatives on Monday, the former Governor of Edo State emphasized the importance of character in governance and accountability. He highlighted the significant responsibilities of local government chairmen, given their proximity to the people, and advised them to allocate resources wisely for essential infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and other public services. On a lighter note, Oshiomhole remarked, “It’s better to have 774 local government chairmen who are thieves than one big thief,” adding that with this every local government in Nigeria will produce one or two billionaires, rather than having just o...

By Jatdul Jerry  The chairman of Plateau Youth Council, (PYC) Dr Panan Dapar was on Friday November 29th, 2024, inaugurated the 17 Local Government Executives of the Association to set the ball rolling for effective running of the affairs of about 3 million youths on the Plateau.  Dr. Dapar in his speech reiterated his commitment in running an all inclusive council where every Plateau youth will have a sense of belongings while affirming his stand on PYC being a pressure group and non partisan to politics or affiliation.   The event which took place at the Azi Nyako Youth Center, Dadin Kowa of Jos South LGA, had in attendance of the Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dewan Kudangbena Gabriel as the chairman of the occasion.  Delivering his speech at the event,  Speaker, Rt Hon Dewan Kudangbena Gabriel has charged PYC leadership on unity, calling on the veterans to remove self interest and put Plateau youth interest first while mentoring the newly elected executives.  He...

The Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Council, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, today welcomed a delegation from the Bokkos Advocacy Group (BAG), a prominent youth advocacy organization within the council area. The delegation, led by Comrade Nafor Victor, conveyed congratulatory messages on behalf of Hon. Sylvester Walangko, the Bokkos constituency representative in the Plateau State House of Assembly, and the group. During the meeting, Comrade Nafor Victor highlighted the group’s commitment to supporting local development initiatives and fostering strong partnerships with the council. He emphasized BAG's dedication to unity, peace, and community advancement. He also underscored the importance of incorporating daily prayers and instilling a sense of responsibility among the youth as a cornerstone for sustainable growth. In his response, Hon. Amalau expressed deep appreciation for the delegation’s visit and reaffirmed his belief in the potential of Bokkos’ youth to drive posit...

The Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Council, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, today received delegations from the Plateau State Ministry of Agriculture and the Plateau State Agricultural Commodities and Marketing Company (PLACOM). The visit was in line with the state government’s mission to revitalize the agricultural sector under the leadership of His Excellency, the Governor of Plateau State. Represented by the Permanent Secretary and other key members of the Ministry of Agriculture, the delegation engaged the Executive Chairman in discussions aimed at implementing the Governor’s vision for agriculture. The meeting centered on the registration of farmers to ensure the timely provision of farm inputs ahead of the next farming season, a crucial step toward boosting productivity and supporting local farmers. In a separate event, the leadership of the Bokkos Students Association (BOKOSA) paid a congratulatory visit to Hon. Amalau to celebrate his victory in the recently concluded...

The Bokkos Local Government Council witnessed a significant moment as the outgoing Acting Education Secretary, Hon. Dashi Ladi Mark, officially handed over responsibilities to the incoming Education Secretary, Hon. Jonathan Gawash Regeh, during a well-attended ceremony at the council headquarters. The event was graced by dignitaries and legislators from both Mangu and Bokkos Local Government Areas, reflecting the unity and shared commitment to advancing education in the region. Representing the Executive Chairman, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, was his Deputy, Hon. Wallangko Mahwel Joseph. The outgoing Acting Education Secretary, Hon. Dashi Ladi Mark, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve since her appointment in April. She highlighted key accomplishments during her tenure, including the smooth operation of academic activities, successful supervision of schools, the implementation of school feeding programs, and the provision of learning materials and uniforms through the pa...

Hon Bendel left, Hon. Venman right, when the going was good Yakubu Busari, Jos  The Member Representing Langtang North/South Federal Constituency,Hon .Bulus Vincent Venman has debunked the allegation labeled against his credibility as baseless, unfounded that no funds was released for him during the electioneering campaign ahead of Governorship held in Plateau State. Vincent Venman in response described the statement by Hon . Member Representing Langtang South State Constituency Hon.Nancwat Bendel as political looser and unreasonable to create acrimony blackmailing him that he collected funds from the campaign of APC in the state. According to him,I spent over million naira to ensure that the party (APC) won the election with landslide victory but here is someone sponsored by mischief makers to destroyed me.  He explained further that he (Vincent Venman Bulus ) didn't see Kobo and all funds released was through the Commissioner and the Stakeholders in Langtang South LGA not him.  I...

The Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Council, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, alongside his Deputy, Hon. Wallangko Mahwel Joseph, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Mandar, the Butura Nation, and the entire Bokkos community on the passing of our father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Dah Mabayat Haruna Damla (Sarkin Mudu), who departed this life in the early hours of today. With deep humility and submission to the will of God, we honor the life of a man renowned for his dedication, tolerance, and unwavering zeal for purposeful living. Dah Haruna Damla was a beacon of wisdom and a pillar of strength who made a significant and lasting impact on our community. On behalf of the Council and the entire people of Bokkos, we join the Butura Nation in mourning this profound loss. His legacy of selfless service and insight will continue to inspire generations. Indeed, his departure is not just a loss to his family but to the entire Bokkos community and Platea...

The Guild of Plateau Publishers, an agglomeration of Indigenous Publishers domiciled in the state, has beseeched Prof. Patrick Sunday Dakum, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), and the 2023 Labour Party (LP) gubernatorial candidate to throw in the hat and join in the 2027 Plateau State gubernatorial race. In a letter presented to Mr. Jonathan Gukut, Personal Assistant to Prof. Dakum, in his Anglo-Jos officer for onward delivery to Prof. Dakum titled "Notification of Volunteer Support for 2027 Gubernatorial Tussle," the group was quoted as saying that the "publishers deemed it fit to call on you to consider re-contesting for Plateau State governorship come 2027 in view of the prevailing stagnation of development in all spheres of the economy and increasing suffering in the state". The group equally appealed that "we are in the know of the sabotage and betrayal meted out to you in the 2023 general elections, but ...

The Executive Chairman of Bokkos LGC, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, on behalf of the Council's leadership, wishes to extend his deepest condolences to the family of the late Deh Idi Dakum, the Galadima Tangur of Bokkos LGA, who was tragically murdered by criminals after being kidnapped about a week ago. Hon. Amalau is deeply distressed by this sad event, which he views as an affront to the peace-loving people of Bokkos, despite the efforts his administration is making to secure the local government area. He is calling for a thorough investigation into this tragic incident, pledging to bring all perpetrators to justice. The Chairman assures the people of Bokkos that his administration will ardently pursue justice, emphasizing that criminality and banditry will be dealt with severely. He plans to utilize intelligence gathering, ensuring that anyone found guilty will face the full force of the law. Hon. Amalau urges communities to stay vigilant and share any credible informat...

By Mapis Jonathan Marawes In an era where visionary leadership is the cornerstone of progress, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, the Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government, has emerged as a beacon of hope and transformation. His strategic leadership has revitalized Bokkos, driving sustainable development and addressing the socio-economic challenges of the local government with a practical, forward-thinking approach. Since assuming office, Hon. Amalau has prioritized infrastructure as a catalyst for change. Recognizing the centrality of roads to economic and social development, his administration has undertaken comprehensive road rehabilitation and construction projects, linking rural communities to economic hubs. Access to clean water has been another priority, with borehole projects and water supply systems initiated to address perennial water scarcity in the area. Public facilities, including town halls and community centers, have been upgraded to serve as functional spaces for civic...

The Northern Elders’ Forum (NEF), on Saturday, November 23, reaffirmed its rejection of the Tax Reform Bill. NEF described it as a policy “conceived in bad faith”, adding that it threatens national cohesion. The group criticised the manner of its implementation, alleging that key stakeholders, including members of the National Economic Council (NEC), were sidelined during the process. The convener of NEF, Professor Ango Abdullahi, in a communique after the forum Board of Trustees’ second bi-annual meeting, in Abuja, warned against policies that could further marginalise the north’s resource potential. The forum lauded the Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern Nigeria Council of Traditional Rulers for opposing the bill, dubbing their stance “patriotic” while urging Northern politicians in the National Assembly to speak out against it. He said: “The meeting seriously maintained that, in its present form, the Tax Reform Bill is conceived in bad faith, poorly packag...