The Age Newspaper Online

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...

The Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Council, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, congratulates the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum on the successful conclusion of their 7th meeting, held at the Plateau State Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Hon. Amalau commends the forum for the impactful deliberations and resolutions aimed at fostering unity within the party, addressing national challenges, and advocating for the well-being of Nigerians. He lauds the leadership of Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, and the host governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, for their unwavering dedication to the progress of the party and the nation. The council boss expresses gratitude to the PDP Governors’ Forum for their solidarity with the people of Plateau State, particularly their heartfelt condolences regarding the Katako market fire incident. This compassionate gesture highlights the party’s commitment...

The Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed, has reiterated the party’s commitment to unity and addressing the pressing challenges facing both the party and the nation. Speaking to the press at Government House Rayfield, Jos, after a strategic meeting of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Mohammed outlined key resolutions and observations made by the forum. Senator Mohammed acknowledged concerns raised by Nigerians, PDP elders, and founding members regarding divisions within the party. He reassured that the forum remains resolute in its efforts to ensure unity and cohesion within the PDP, emphasizing the party’s role as the trusted platform for democratic governance in Nigeria. The forum expressed its support for the postponement of the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting originally scheduled for November. This decision was taken out of empathy for Governor Enobasi, who recently lost his wife. The forum commiserated ...

The Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Council, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, alongside his Deputy, Hon. Wallangko Mahwel Joseph, warmly welcomes the PDP Governor's Forum to Plateau State, the "Home of Peace and Tourism." Representing the resilient and hospitable people of Bokkos, Hon. Amalau expressed the council's pride in hosting this prestigious gathering aimed at addressing key issues and policies that will drive growth, development, and unity in Nigeria. This significant dialogue underscores the importance of continuous change and progress, particularly in a region rich in tourism, agriculture, and mineral resources, blessed with both natural beauty and potential. The people of Plateau State remain eternally grateful to the PDP for its historic role in shaping the political landscape of Nigeria, being the party that gave birth to the presidency of His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, in 1999 and the foundational leadership of Chief Solomon D. Lar, the first PD...

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has warmly congratulated former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on the occasion of his 67th birthday. In a message, Governor Mutfwang described the former President as a bridge-builder, role model, and mentor whose life and service have profoundly impacted the nation. He applauded Dr. Jonathan’s invaluable contributions to youth development, peacebuilding, and nation-building during his time in the academia and public service. “Your Excellency, it is with profound joy and deep humility that I join millions of admirers across the globe in celebrating you on this special occasion. You have been a beacon of hope, unity, and inspiration, not only to Nigerians but to many across the world. Your unwavering commitment to the transformation of our nation and your pursuit of peace remain a testament to your selfless leadership and dedication to humanity,” the Governor remarked. Governor Mutfwang paid glowing tribute to Dr...

The Executive Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Council, Hon. Amalau Samuel Amalau, has expressed profound sorrow and disappointment over the recent attacks in Forof, Gyetel Kwatas Ward, and Hurti Village in Manguna Ward, resulting in loss of lives and property. Speaking on behalf of the Bokkos community, Hon. Amalau condemned these senseless acts of violence, which he described as an attempt to destabilize the Plateau of our dreams. He lamented that despite ongoing reconciliation efforts and peace-building initiatives, certain elements remain resistant to the call for unity and peace. The Chairman specifically highlighted the devastating impact of the attacks allegedly perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen on the villages, stressing the urgent need for swift and decisive action. He called on the relevant authorities, including His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and the international community to: Condemn these attacks publicly to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. De...

In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has received the report of the committee instituted to investigate the collapse of the St. Academy School building in Jos. He has also pledged to ensure that all building infrastructure in the state undergo rigorous integrity tests to prevent future tragedies. While receiving the report at the Twins Theatre, New Government House, Jos, with the Deputy Governor, Hon. Mrs Josephine Piyo, Governor Mutfwang commended the Chairman of the Committee, Prof. Danladi Slim Matawal, and the other members for their thorough and insightful work, describing the report as a critical guide for government actions. In addition to their initial mandate, the Governor directed the committee to extend its scope to include assessments of the Jos Main Market and the Rockland Hotel in Laminga. This move is aimed at ascertainimg the structural integrity of these facilities for timely ...

Nigeria’s total debt is set to hit an all-time high of N136 trillion, following fresh request from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the National Assembly to approve N1.77 trillion (approximately $2.2bn) external borrowing plan in support of the 2024 budget.Graduate internship The president conveyed his request in a letter written to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and read by the presiding officers during plenary, on Tuesday. According to the President, the request is part of Nigeria’s budgetary financing plan, which aims to address a portion of the N9.17 trillion fiscal deficit in the 2024 budget. President Tinubu has also forwarded to the Senate the 2025–2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP), MTEF/ FSP 2025- 2027 approved by the Federal Executive Council, FEC, on November 10, 2024 to parliament. The MTEF/FSP request which sought expeditious passage, was referred to the Senate Committees on F...

Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, IHVN, and Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at the University Of Maryland School Of Medicine, Baltimore USA, Professor Patrick Sunday Dakum, empathizes with victims of Sunday conflagration at Laranto Market in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State where goods running into hundreds of millions of naira were gutted and destroyed. The Plateau State Labour Party, governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections, lamented that the conflagration is a setback and colossal frustration to its victims at this period of advanced scourging, excruciating and petrifying stagflation where the greatest population of the country is gasping for breathe of survival trying to make ends meet; and also a paralyzing blow to the economy of the state, as huge means of revenue derivation to the government has been destroyed. Dakum bewails the recurring yearly inferno at the market for some years now, and ca...

As the World marks Diabetes Day today, November 14, 2024, the Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, IHVN, and Professor of Public Health, School of Medicine, Maryland University, Baltimore in USA, Prof. Patrick Sunday Dakum, has tasked governments at all levels to pay serious attention to diabetes and introduce pragmatic measures in combating it, saying the disease has attended pandemic level in the country killing by far more people than tuberculosis and AIDS. Speaking on the 2024 theme: "Access to Diabetes Care: Prevention and Management for All", Dakum lamented that so many patients of diabetes are dying and finding it very difficult to treat themselves because of the exorbitant prices of the drugs, treatment and good food meant for patients. According to him the drugs prices have raised to over 400% not to mention the cost of dialysis and foods such as beans, Acha, and Basmati rice. The former Commissioner of Health and Information, added that the ...

In line with discussions reached after consultation with relevant stakeholders, the Plateau State Government has approved immediate implementation of the N70, 000 minimum wage for the workforce in Plateau State. The cheering news is contained in a Press Statement signed by the Head of Civil Service in the State, Stephen Pam Gadong. Full text of the statement reads in part: Following the Agreement of the Committee on Consequential Adjustment on Salaries on 13th, November, 2024, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has approved the immediate implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage for workers in the state. The Implementation is a demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to prioritizing the wellbeing of the workforce in acknowledgement of their invaluableble role in driving the State’s developmental goals. As the new wage policy is administered, Civil Servants are encouraged to embrace this gesture by recommitting to their duties with renewed ...

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Major General Olufemi Oluyede, following the passing of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. During a condolence visit to the Acting Chief of Army Staff at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, Governor Mutfwang described Lt. Gen. Lagbaja as a distinguished military leader and a true gentleman whose commitment and dedication significantly boosted the security and safety of Nigeria, with a profound impact in Plateau State. The Governor also visited the residence of the late General to personally express his sympathy to Mrs. Mariya A. Lagbaja, where he conveyed his sorrow over the loss of her beloved husband. In his words, Governor Mutfwang said, "The people and government of Plateau State will deeply miss this devoted and selfless patriot. In our times of need, he stood by us, dedicating his time and resources to ensure the protection of live...

No fewer than 13 people have been killed in a collapsed mining site in the Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. Joshua Riti, chairman of the LGA, said the incident occurred on November 10. He added that seven of the deceased hail from Bassa LGA. The collapsed mining site is conterminous with Jos South and Jos North LGAs. Riti said; “This is an unfortunate incident. These young people were only out in search of a means of livelihood. “They went out to put their energies to good use to sustain and meet up with the current economic hardship in the country but met their untimely death. “I wish to extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.” Majority of the victims were said to be aged 18-30. Mining accidents are becoming a recurring decimal in resource-rich Nigeria.Oil and gas internship In June, a mining site collapsed in Niger state following a downpour. Seven persons were eventually rescued. In January, two people were killed and...

By Nanzing Zingkong, Jos Honourable Daniel Nanbol Listick, the member representing Langtang North Central State Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, has raised a motion calling for the reactivation and sustainable celebration of the Plateau Festival of Arts and Culture (PLAFEST). The motion was presented during plenary today, Tuesday, November 12, 2024. In his motion, Honourable Listick emphasized the cultural, economic, and social benefits of celebrating PLAFEST. He highlighted Plateau State’s vast cultural heritage and tourism potential, noting that the state is home to numerous attractions across its Local Government Areas. He stressed that celebrating PLAFEST would help showcase these resources, boost the state's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and reduce dependency on federal allocations. Honourable Listick proposed that the festival not only showcase Plateau's rich cultural heritage but also serve as a tool for promoting tourism. He pointed out that t...

The National President Gamai Unity and Development Organisation (GUDO) Dr.Albert Kelong Alkali FPSN , the NEC, Council and indeed the entire Gamai Nation joyfully felicitate with Professor Nentawe Yilwatda on his well deserved appointment as member Federal Executive Council and a Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Your appointment to this Exalted position did not come to us as a Surprise because of your rich pedigree and your consist interest in human capital development for the betterment of the common man. Your choice by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR is apt , timely and we hereby thank His Excellency for Considering you our own worthy of this great task, Mr. President you have made the right choice because we believe that Prof.Nentawe Yilwatda will deliver on this mandate. To you the Honourable Minister, we look forward to a change in the narrative of your Ministry and also a sound collaboration with you for the overall p...