June 2024 | 4WARDWEGO

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Nigerian Army Celebrates 161st Anniversary with Interdenominational Church Service

The Nigerian Army marked its 161st anniversary with a series of religious activities, including Jumat Prayers and an Interdenominational Church Service, across various formations and units as part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, represented by Maj General Philip E. Eremosele, delivered a heartfelt speech emphasizing the importance of reflecting on the army’s rich history, celebrating its achievements, and seeking divine guidance for future endeavors.

Chief of Army Staff, expressed pride and humility in recognizing the achievements and resilience of the Nigerian Army over the past 161 years. He emphasized the significance of these religious activities, initiated by forefathers of the Army, as a means of seeking divine guidance and blessings for the coming year while thanking God for past victories.

“History is experience, and one cannot buy experience in the market. The Nigerian Army, in its 161 years, has been through wars, low-intensity conflicts, peacekeeping, and military aid to civil authority engagements. Today, we are a globally recognized force, known for our tenacity, adaptability, and focus on victory,” said Lt. Gen. Lagbaja.

The Chief of Army Staff highlighted the importance of thanking the Almighty and seeking His continued blessings, paralleling the strength of the Nigerian Army to the eagle, a symbol in its logo. He urged the Army community to pray for the repose of fallen soldiers and the recovery of wounded warriors, recognizing their sacrifices for national unity and territorial integrity.

This year’s NADCEL theme underscores the Army’s responsibility towards national unity, integration, and development, emphasizing strategic preparedness and readiness. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to a joint approach involving all stakeholders in combating contemporary security challenges.

Maj General Eremosele highlighted the Nigerian Army’s journey through wars, peacekeeping missions, and various military operations since its inception. He praised the force’s adaptability and resilience, attributing its numerous victories to divine intervention, as reflected in the army’s motto, “Victory Is from God Alone.”

“This year’s theme, ‘Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment,’ underscores our commitment to national unity, integration, and development,” said Eremosele. He also expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and other key leaders for their support and strategic guidance.

During the service, Lieutenant Colonel Ayuba Usman, Deputy Director of 3 Division Chaplain Protestants, spoke on the significance of prayer in achieving victory, especially in challenging times. He commended the Nigerian Army for recognizing the power of prayer and ensuring spiritual support for their personnel.

“Our gathering today is to thank the Almighty for His guidance over the past year and seek His continued blessings, grace, and favour,” said Usman. He highlighted the importance of prayer in securing victories, drawing parallels from historical religious practices.

The NADCEL religious activities also provided an opportunity to honor fallen heroes, celebrate the living, and pray for the recovery of wounded soldiers. Maj General Eremosele urged everyone to continue praying for the souls of their fallen comrades and the recovery of those injured in the line of duty.

The events emphasized the army’s ongoing dedication to strengthening national security, the rule of law, and the economic prosperity of Nigeria. Eremosele assured that the Army Headquarters would continue formulating personnel and family-friendly policies to enhance the career experiences of their soldiers and the well-being of their families.

The celebration concluded with a call to the Nigerian Army family to take pride in their achievements and remain committed to their mission. The army’s leadership reaffirmed their pledge to serve the nation with pride, resilience, and unwavering dedication.

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Plateau Youths Celebrate Social Media Day by Championing Governor Mutfwang’s Initiatives

In a remarkable display of unity and civic engagement, Plateau youths and media aides to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang gathered on Saturday, June 29, 2024, to celebrate Social Media Day. The event, themed “Uniting the Digital Space to Support Governor Mutfwang’s Good Governance Strides and Peace Efforts in Plateau State,” took place at the National Library near Abattoir Bridge in Jos.

The day began with a symbolic walk from Secretariate Junction Flyover Bridge to Utonkon Flyover Bridge, aimed at raising awareness about the potential of social media to highlight and support the developmental achievements of Governor Mutfwang.

In his address, Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, emphasized the transformative power of social media in fostering peace and unity within the state. He outlined several key accomplishments of Governor Mutfwang’s administration, including the rehabilitation of road networks in Jos Bukuru Metropolis and other Local Government Areas, the acquisition of 15 metro buses to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal on citizens, and the revitalization of the state’s railway station, which lays a solid foundation for economic growth. Bere also highlighted the government’s efforts in promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in governance.

Additionally, Bere noted the signing of an agreement for the rehabilitation of Hill Station Hotel and the construction of BOMO International Hospital in Bassa LGA, aimed at reducing medical tourism abroad. He urged citizens to embrace the urban renewal initiatives encapsulated in Executive Order 003, clarifying that the order aims to make Jos-Bukuru metropolis more attractive to investors and habitable for all.

Datong Dominic Gwaman, Director General of the Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), encouraged citizens to use social media for economic improvement and the well-being of the state. He warned against the spread of fake news and advocated for the use of technology to promote peaceful coexistence.

Mr. Samuel Dapiya, Director General of the Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), stressed the importance of leveraging social media to promote good hygiene and health behaviors, aligning with Governor Mutfwang’s sanitary policies to reduce communicable diseases and maintain a safe environment.

Hon. Bashir Lawandi, Commissioner of Youth and Sports, emphasized the crucial role of youths in societal success. He appealed to Plateau youths to harness social media to create wealth and promote government policies for the greater good.

The event underscored the collective commitment of Plateau youths to using digital platforms to support Governor Mutfwang’s developmental initiatives and positively transform the state’s narrative.

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PLASIEC Visits Media Houses in Jos to Foster Collaboration Ahead of Plateau LG Elections

The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) embarked on a significant outreach from June 27 to 28, visiting various media houses in Jos to build a synergy towards the successful conduct of the forthcoming local government elections.

The Chairman of PLASIEC, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, emphasized the critical role of the media in ensuring transparent, credible, and efficient elections. Speaking during the visits, Cishak highlighted the importance of collaboration with media outfits for voter education and the dissemination of accurate information.

“We are here to introduce ourselves and establish a connection, knowing how crucial this agency is. Elections, particularly at the grassroots level, are sensitive and serious,” stated Cishak. He reiterated the commitment of PLASIEC to uphold global standards in the electoral process and pledged to ensure transparency and credibility.

The media tour saw PLASIEC officials visiting several media outlets, including the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Unity FM, JayFM, NTA Network Centre, Silverbird Communication, and Radio Nigeria Highland 101.5 FM. Each media house welcomed the PLASIEC team warmly, pledging their support and emphasizing the media’s role in promoting fair and balanced reportage.

Nyisom Dore, Zonal Manager of NAN, assured PLASIEC of NAN’s dedication to fairness and accuracy, while Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Plateau State Council, underscored the national importance of elections for journalists.

Other media representatives, including Pedro Omobolade of JayFM and Mrs. Patience Nanyi Jatau of Radio Nigeria, Highland 101.5 FM, echoed similar sentiments, praising the commission’s proactive approach and commitment to engaging with the media.

The visits marked a historic moment for many of the media houses, as it was the first time a PLASIEC Chairman had visited them, signifying a new era of cooperation and mutual support aimed at achieving successful local government elections in Plateau State.

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Nigerian Army Commemorates 161st Anniversary with NADCEL 2024 Jumat Prayers

The Nigerian Army marked the beginning of its 161st anniversary celebrations with Jumat Prayers across various formations and units nationwide. These events are part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024, highlighting the theme “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment.”

In his address, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, expressed pride and humility in recognizing the achievements and resilience of the Nigerian Army over the past 161 years. He emphasized the significance of these religious activities, initiated by forefathers of the Army, as a means of seeking divine guidance and blessings for the coming year while thanking God for past victories.

Colonel Abubakar Tahir, Deputy Director of Islamic Affairs, 3-Division, echoed these sentiments during his sermon. He emphasized the importance of integrating religious morals in addressing security challenges within a joint environment, highlighting the role of both security agencies and the general public in maintaining security.

“Our sermon today aligns with the theme of NADCEL, stressing the need for cooperation among all stakeholders. The Nigerian Army’s efforts in fostering civil-military relations and public reconciliation are crucial for achieving our objectives,” said Colonel Tahir.

As the week-long NADCEL 2024 celebrations continue, the Nigerian Army reaffirms its dedication to national security, the rule of law, and economic prosperity. The events also serve as a platform to showcase achievements and outline future plans, demonstrating the Army’s unwavering commitment to its constitutional responsibilities.

Lt. Gen. Lagbaja concluded by extending gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, fellow Service Chiefs, and the National Assembly for their support. He wished the Nigerian Army family a happy NADCEL 2024, invoking God’s blessings and protection for the nation’s defenders.

The Nigerian Army Day Celebration is a testament to the institution’s enduring legacy and its pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and promoting national unity.

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Alpha Blue Foundation Announces its Kids Code Club Africa 6th Cohort (Registration Details)

Registration for the 2024 edition (6th cohort) of the Annual Kids Tech Development Programme kicks off on June 24, 2024.

Alpha blue foundation, a leading organization dedicated to fostering digital literacy and innovation among African youth, is delighted to announce the commencement of registration for the 6th cohort of its esteemed summer holiday coding boot camp. (kid code club Africa) The programme, tailored for children aged between 9 to 17 Years, offers a unique opportunity to develop essential digital skills and ignite a passion for technology.

“We believe coding is more than just writing lines of instruction,” says the Converner of KCCA. Mr. Bright Ogor “At KCCA, we focus on fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and a collaborative spirit. Our program equips children with the tools they need to not only thrive in this digital era but get inspired to build amazing things.”

The 2024 edition features two distinct program tracks: KCCA Regular and KCCA Prime. The KCCA Regular Track is a hands-on, free coding program accessible with a membership fee, designed to engage a diverse group of participants.
KCCA Prime, a highly subsidized paid track, provides long-term, advanced, and intensive training for those seeking personalized instruction.
The KCCA 2024 Media Team hinted that both tracks are crafted to equip participants with the skills needed to thrive in today’s digital world.
The boot camp’s robust curriculum covers a wide array of topics, including game programming, animation, robotics, UI/UX design, blockchain technologies, mobile app development, and web development. Additionally, participants will enhance their critical thinking, computational thinking, collaboration, and programming skills.

Eligibility Requirements:
Age: 9 to 17 years old
Basic computer operation skills
A strong desire to learn and the ability to commit 15 hours per week
Reliable internet access and a well-functioning computer with at least 4 GB of RAM
Register as a KCCA Club Member.

The 2024 summer activities will also include the Kids in Tech Conference, an annual gathering of experts, stakeholders, policymakers, investors, and tech enthusiasts in the ICT and digital technology sectors. This conference offers KCCA participants a platform to showcase their innovations, compete in a marathon coding challenge, and gain recognition and prizes for their projects.

Application Process:
Interested applicants can visit KCCA’s application page between June 24 and July 25, 2024, to complete the application form. The boot camp will be conducted both onsite and virtually, and applicants will undergo a screening and interview process to secure a place in the program.
Newly accepted applicants as well as returning participants will be required to pay an annual club membership fee of N10,000, which includes the issuance of a membership certificate. Successful participants will join the boot camp in August 2024.

Membership Benefits: Upon acceptance, participants receive:
A digital membership certificate
Three years of free digital capacity development in various skill sets, including web development, game programming, character animation, robot programming, UI/UX design, blockchain technology, and mobile app development
Access to the Kids in Tech Conference
Free mentorship from digital experts and professionals
Inclusion in KCCA’s international digital tour programs
Participation in all ALPHA BLUE FOUNDATION and KCCA’s programs and affiliate hubs in Africa
Networking opportunities with digital tech peers
Access to the ABF/KCCA Hub in Jos, Nigeria

Important Note: The summer coding boot camp is scheduled for August 1- September 5, 2024. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the maximum number of participants is reached, the registration portal will close. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot and ensure adequate preparation time.
Join KCCA in this thrilling journey of digital innovation and technological empowerment.

For more information, please visit KCCA’s website.
Contact: 07018245477, 07078750605, or 07070764510
Email: kidscodeclubafrica@gmail.com
Website: www.kidscodeclubafrica.com

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PLASIEC and Police Collaborate for Upcoming Plateau LG Elections

The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), led by Chairman Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, paid a courtesy visit to the Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, to seek collaboration on security for the forthcoming Local Government Elections in the State.

During the visit, Hon. Cishak emphasized the critical role of the Nigerian police in ensuring a peaceful election. He acknowledged the police past efforts in maintaining peace and security in Plateau State, particularly lauding the manner in which they handled the recent incident in Bukuru. Hon. Cishak expressed confidence in the police ability to support a fair and credible election, given their experience and expertise.

“We are here to introduce ourselves, to familiarize with you, and to discuss the way forward,” said Hon. Cishak. “The Governor of Plateau State has mandated us to conduct local government elections that are credible, free, and fair. We must adhere to global standards and ensure the votes of our people count.”

In response, CP Adesina assured PLASIEC of the police’s full support and commitment to providing robust security during the election period. He highlighted the importance of timely communication and collaboration between PLASIEC and the police. “We are going to deploy massively to secure the electoral process and ensure issues of violence are prevented,” said CP Adesina. “Our goal is to protect the integrity of the election.”

Both parties agreed to establish a Consultative Forum for Election Security, co-chaired by CP Adesina, to coordinate efforts and strategies for a secure election. This forum will facilitate regular updates and discussions between PLASIEC and Plateau State police command.

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Walk with Gold Presents June Fest 3.0: Owam Be Edition

Save the Date: June 30, 2024, at 3 PM Sharp

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Sarau Event Center, located behind NTA Jos in Plateau State, as Walk with Gold proudly presents June Fest 3.0: Owam Be Edition. This event promises a blend of dinner, fashion, and awards that will leave you mesmerized.

Event Highlights:

Dinner: Savor a delectable meal prepared by top chefs.
Fashion: Witness a spectacular fashion show featuring the latest trends.
Awards: Celebrate outstanding achievements with our prestigious awards ceremony.

Ticket Information:

Regular Single: 5K
Regular Couple: 8K
VIP: 10K
Gold Table for 8: 80K
Premium Table for 8: 100K

Secure your spot now and experience an evening of glamour and celebration. For more details, please contact us at +234 706 188 7904.

Don’t miss out on this incredible event—mark your calendars and get ready for June Fest 3.0!

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PLASIEC Chairman and Team Visit Security Outfits Ahead of Plateau State Local Government Elections

In preparation for the forthcoming local government elections in Plateau State, the Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Hon Plangji Daniel Cishak, led his team on a courtesy visit to key security outfits on June 25, 2024. This visit underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and transparent electoral process.

Addressing Operation Rainbow, a significant security outfit in the state, Cishak emphasized the critical role of security in election management. He acknowledged the challenges previously faced in the region due to poorly conducted elections and highlighted the need for effective collaboration with security agencies to prevent any potential conflicts. “Security is a big issue when it comes to elections, especially at the grassroots level,” Cishak noted. “We are here to pay you respect and seek your partnership as a key stakeholder in this activity.”

Gakji Shipi, Retired Brigadier General and Commander of Operation Rainbow, warmly welcomed the PLASIEC team, expressing his delight at their visit. He assured them of full support, emphasizing the importance of security in the electoral process. “Your choice to visit this morning and seek our collaboration is very apt,” Shipi said. “We will give you maximum support to ensure you carry out your task successfully.”

Cishak and his team also visited the Plateau State Command of Operation Safe Haven, where they were received by Brigadier General M.O Agi, Chief of Staff, representing the Commander, Major General A.E Abubakar. Agi reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to providing the necessary security support to ensure a peaceful election. “We assure you that we will ensure a secure and conducive environment for the electoral process,” Agi stated.

Additionally, the PLASIEC team paid a courtesy visit to the Plateau State Command of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The visits mark a significant step in PLASIEC’s efforts to engage and collaborate with security agencies, ensuring a secure and transparent electoral process for the people of Plateau State.

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Plateau Group Calls for Public Support of Ban on Blockades at Religious Centers

Residents of Plateau State have been urged to embrace a spirit of brotherhood by complying with the State government’s recent Executive Order 003, which bans the obstruction of roads during religious activities.

The Plateau Patriotic Front, a socio-political group, praised the State government for issuing Executive Order 003, stating it would significantly enhance Jos’s reputation as a decent and orderly city.

In a statement issued by its Chairman, Mani Imman, the group also urged citizens not to succumb to religious extremists, emphasizing that the Executive Order applies to all religious organizations.

Additionally, the group noted that implementing the order would facilitate free vehicle movement on highways, especially with the new transport system innovations introduced by the Barrister Caleb Muftwang administration.

The Chairman of Plateau Patriotic Front, Mani Imman while commending the steps taken so far to sanitize the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis urged support for the efforts of the government to lift Jos Capital City and the rest of the State into its deserved place in the comity of developed cities.

He said, “We commend the government’s efforts in bringing sanity to the environment. We appeal that citizens support the efforts and not see them as targeting any group or person.

“We ask that citizens refrain from antagonizing the government especially when policies and efforts are geared at development and the common good.
“We commend the resolve of Governor Caleb Mutfwang in giving Plateau State a face-lift and call on everyone to offer the needed support for the Governor to develop the State.”

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Yiaga Africa and PLASIEC Collaborate to Enhance Local Government Elections in Plateau State

In a strategic move to bolster local democracy, Yiaga Africa recently visited the newly appointed Chairman and Commissioners of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) to discuss ways to improve the quality of local government elections. This visit is part of Yiaga Africa’s ongoing initiative aimed at strengthening state electoral commissions across Nigeria.

Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman of PLASIEC, warmly welcomed the delegation from Yiaga Africa, emphasizing the importance of their visit at a pivotal time as election activities ramp up. He expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting that it would address existing challenges and enhance electoral processes.

Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, outlined the expectations of Plateau State voters, emphasizing the need for timely and efficient election procedures, integrity in vote counting, and resilience against political interference. He highlighted Yiaga Africa’s commitment to supporting electoral commissions through legal reviews, public engagement strategies, and capacity building in partnership with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES).

Professor Nnamdi Aduba, a board member of Yiaga Africa, reiterated the importance of maintaining and empowering state electoral commissions as a cornerstone of local democracy. He praised the quality and composition of the new PLASIEC board, expressing confidence in their ability to conduct credible elections.

Closing the event, Barr. Pam Gyang Davou, PLASIEC Secretary, expressed deep gratitude to the Yiaga Africa team and highlighted the significant contributions of Professor Aduba. “We want to appreciate you for coming this morning. We look forward to a robust partnership with you, and I’m sure you will leave here with the confidence that this team will be a departure from the teams that were here before,” said Gyang. He reassured that the commission is dedicated to delivering elections that every Plateau resident can be proud of, with prayers for divine guidance and continued success for Yiaga Africa.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to ongoing collaboration, aimed at ensuring transparent and democratic local government elections in Plateau State.