Month: November 2024

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Mazi Obikwelu Nnawetanma Calls for Collective Action Against Drug Abuse Among Youths at GSS Wuse Seminar

Mazi Obikwelu Nnawetanma delivered a powerful speech at a seminar on the “Effects of Hard Drugs and Substance Abuse on Youths,” held at Government Secondary School (GSS) Wuse in Abuja. Addressing students from various secondary schools, educators, and dignitaries, Nnawetanma emphasized the urgent need to combat drug abuse among Nigerian youths, calling it a threat to the nation’s future.

Quoting a 1990s NTA broadcast by Frank Olize, he reminded parents of their critical role in monitoring their children’s choices: “Do you know where your children are?” He described drug abuse as a pervasive issue across the 36 states of Nigeria and Abuja, stating that it has driven many young people off the path of righteousness to self-destruction.

Under the theme “CHOBA EWU-OJI NA EHIHE” – translated as “Look for your black goat in the daytime before night falls” – the seminar sought to educate secondary school students on the dangers of substance abuse. The Youth Volunteer Society of Nigeria (YOVSON) spearheaded the initiative, bringing professionals to sensitize the students.

In his address, Nnawetanma praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) under the leadership of Brigadier General Buba M. Marwa for their efforts in combating drug abuse. He also drew inspiration from Nigeria’s past heroes, such as Dr. Stella Ameyo Adadevoh, whose sacrifice during the Ebola outbreak serves as a beacon of courage and patriotism.

Beyond sensitization, the speaker called for practical solutions to engage the youth positively, highlighting the role of engineering and innovation in nation-building. “The way forward lies with individuals; every Nigerian has a role to play,” he said, quoting the late General Sani Abacha.

Nnawetanma appealed to the government, corporate bodies, and NGOs to support YOVSON’s mission of creating a drug-free society. The organization aims to establish a rehabilitation center in Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, with facilities to aid recovery and reintegration. The project requires N37.5 million, of which N5 million has already been paid.

He also called for the donation of operational vehicles to facilitate outreach programs in rural areas. Contributions can be made through YOVSON’s official account or by joining the organization as a member.

For more information, visit YOVSON’s official website.

Bank Details for Support:
• Account Name: Youth Volunteer Society of Nigeria
• Bank: UBA
• Account Number: 1019322121

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Governor Mutfwang Hosts Plateau National Assembly Members, Charts Path for State’s Development

In a bid to foster unity, peace, and inclusive governance, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State convened a strategic meeting with National Assembly members from the state. The meeting, held at the Governor’s residence in the Old Government House, Jos, aimed to align efforts for the state’s rebuilding and equitable development.

During the meeting, Governor Mutfwang outlined his administration’s vision to restore Plateau’s glory and emphasized the importance of collaboration across political lines. Leaders from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and Labour Party pledged to set aside political differences to work towards the collective good of the state.

“We have realized that without unity and collaboration, we cannot move Plateau forward. This meeting marks a new beginning as representatives from various political parties have resolved to work together for the Plateau project,” Governor Mutfwang stated. He highlighted the significance of the dialogue in fostering harmony and expressed confidence in a brighter future for the state.

Former Governor and Senator representing Plateau South, Simon Bako Lalong, spoke on behalf of the lawmakers, lauding the Governor’s initiative. “We had a fruitful interaction and pledged to support the Governor in addressing challenges facing our state. Plateau people will witness a transformed state under his leadership,” he said.

Attendees included Senator Diket Plang (Plateau Central), Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase (Wase Federal Constituency), Hon. John Dafaan (Quan’pan/Shendam/Mikang Federal Constituency), Hon. Prince Vincent Venman Bulus (Langtang North/South Federal Constituency), Hon. Ishaya Lalu (Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency), Hon. Alfred Illiya Ajang (Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency), and Hon. Daniel Asama (Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency).

Absent due to official duties abroad were Senator Pam Dung Gyang (Plateau North) and Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi (Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency).

The meeting reflects a collective resolve by Plateau leaders to prioritize development and unity, signaling a hopeful future for the state.

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Introducing Kookfused: The Sonic Revolution

Get ready to experience the ultimate fusion of sounds! Kookfused is the latest album that’s about to take the music world by storm.

The artist

Mic Fix, the kerang babe crooner is a force to reckon with in the music industry. His talent cannot be placed in a box, as he has perfected the art of both singing and rapping. His love for culture is what pushes his drive in fusing Mwaghavul and English in his sounds.

A Unique Blend of Styles

Kookfused seamlessly blends different genres, creating a distinctive sound that’s both captivating and thought-provoking. From catchy hooks to the infectious beats, every track is carefully crafted to take you on a musical journey.

Inspiration and Creativity

Kookfused is more than just an album – it’s a reflection of creativity, passion, and dedication. Each song tells a story, conveying emotions and messages that will resonate with listeners from all walks of life.

Join the Kookfused Movement

Be part of the Kookfused

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Get Ready for the Urban Fiesta 2024: A Celebration of Culture, Fashion, and Music!

Jos, Nigeria – Mark your calendars for December 25-27, 2024, as Urban Fiesta transforms the heart of Jtown into a vibrant hub of culture and creativity! This three-day extravaganza promises an unforgettable experience featuring a captivating movie night, a dynamic fashion fair, and a mega concert that will have attendees dancing into the new year.

Day 1: Movie Night Under the Stars

Kick off the fiesta on December 25th with a magical movie night in Langfield. Bring your blankets and enjoy a selection of classic films against a backdrop of twinkling lights and a festive atmosphere. Food stalls will offer delicious treats to keep your spirits high!

Day 2: Fashion Fair and Exhibition

On December 26th, dive into the world of style at our Fashion Fair and Exhibition. Local designers and artisans will showcase their latest collections, offering unique pieces that celebrate the rich tapestry of our community. Attendees will

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Preparations for Plateau State’s First Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival Underway

Preparations for the inaugural Plateau State Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival have officially begun, marked by a vibrant roadshow that kicked off on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at the State Secretariat Flyover in Jos. The roadshow, featuring a colorful procession and live band, signals the start of an event set to bring together Christians from across the state in a celebration of unity and faith.

The festival, which will run from November 29 to December 1, 2024, at the 10 Commandment Prayer Altar in Doi, Jos South Local Government Area, is a collaborative effort between the Plateau State Government and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Plateau State Chapter. Each day of the event will begin at 3:30 PM, with attendees gathering for an inclusive celebration of Christmas carols and praise.

Speaking during the roadshow’s launch, Hon. Yiljab Abraham, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, highlighted the significance of the event, emphasizing that it is part of the state government’s effort to foster unity across Plateau. “This initiative, championed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, aims to mobilize people from all walks of life in Plateau to engage in discussions on strengthening unity and promoting peace. The goal is not only to celebrate the season but to bring together all denominations and ethnic groups under one umbrella,” Abraham said.

Governor Mutfwang’s vision for the festival is clear: to unite people through shared worship and to promote religious tourism. “We want Plateau State to be recognized as a destination for religious tourism, just like Mecca or Jerusalem. This festival is an opportunity to show that Plateau is a place for spiritual reflection, not a carnival or a display of cultural spirits,” he stated.

The festival will feature a powerful choral performance, with plans to build a 1,000-member strong choir known as the Plateau Unity Choral Group. Initially, the group will begin with 300 members, with hopes to expand significantly by the end of the festival.

For attendees, transportation to the venue will be provided free of charge, with designated buses covering various routes. Security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of all participants, with prayer warriors available for both physical and spiritual protection during the event.

The planning committee, led by Plateau State’s Secretary to the Government, Architect Saminu Jatto, and supported by the Chief of Staff, Builder Jerry Sattva, is confident that the festival will not only strengthen religious unity but also help reposition Plateau State as a hub for peaceful coexistence and spiritual reflection.

Rita Kachollom Pam, General Manager of Plateau Radio Television Corporation, and Barr. Ezra Jinan, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Entertainment and Creativity, both expressed optimism that the event will leave a lasting impact, creating unity and fostering a sense of pride for Plateau State.

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NCPC Executive Secretary Visits Israel and Jordan Ahead of 2024 Christian Pilgrimage Exercise

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has concluded a one-week working visit to Israel and Jordan in preparation for the 2024 Christian Pilgrimage Exercise, set to commence in December.

The visit, aimed at ensuring the smooth execution of the annual pilgrimage, included strategic meetings at the Nigerian Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel. Bishop Adegbite engaged with key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Ambassador to Israel, Mrs. Agatha Afoekelu, embassy officials, ground handlers, and representatives of the air carrier. The discussions focused on the readiness of service providers and other arrangements for the pilgrimage.

During his time in Israel, Bishop Adegbite toured notable holy sites in Jerusalem, including the Wailing Wall, where he prayed for Nigeria’s prosperity, the good health of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the well-being of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. He also visited the Garden Tomb, believed by some to be the burial site of Jesus Christ, and other historic churches of biblical significance.

Bishop Adegbite’s journey continued in Amman, Jordan, where he met with Jordanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ayman Safadi, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Jordan, Amb. Kamfut Umaru. The meetings in Jordan further cemented preparations for the pilgrimage, ensuring a seamless experience for Nigerian pilgrims.

The 2024 Main Pilgrimage Exercise is expected to offer a spiritually enriching journey for participants, as the NCPC continues its commitment to fostering spiritual renewal and national unity.

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PLASIEC Chairman Honored as Electoral Personality of the Year at Plateau Excellence Awards 2024

The Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Hon. Plangji Daniel Chishak, was recognized with the prestigious Electoral Personality of the Year award during the Plateau Excellence Awards 2024. The event, held on November 24, 2024, at the Ornate Pavilion, Jos, brought together over 2,000 attendees to celebrate excellence in leadership and community service.

Hon. Chishak’s nomination followed a meticulous process of scrutiny, investigation, and public input, highlighting his exceptional contributions to electoral management and his role as a mentor to younger generations. The award recognized his outstanding leadership in steering PLASIEC with integrity and dedication.

In his remarks, Hon. Chishak expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “While I am often cautious about receiving awards, this one feels particularly special because it comes from individuals who genuinely appreciate our work. It is humbling and motivating to know that our efforts are being recognized.” He further emphasized the importance of using such honors as an inspiration to continue improving governance and electoral processes.

The event also featured the launch of the book Welcome to Nigeria, authored by Bello Lukeman, the convener of the awards. Speaking about the book, Lukeman highlighted its relevance in addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges. He stated, “The book provides practical solutions to issues like economic instability, unemployment, and energy crises. It encourages Nigerians to focus on production and innovation as pathways to national development.”

The Plateau Excellence Awards 2024 also celebrated other humanitarian efforts, recognizing individuals and communities contributing significantly to societal growth through selfless acts and local initiatives.

Hon. Chishak’s recognition underscores the importance of effective leadership in achieving a better society and serves as a testament to his dedication to improving electoral processes in Plateau State.

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PDP Governors Chart Course for Unity, Electoral Justice, and Economic Reform in Jos Meeting

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 with Governor Enobasi and his family, praying for strength during this difficult time.

To address critical leadership and legal challenges confronting the party, the forum urged the National Working Committee (NWC) to convene the NEC meeting by the first week of February 2025, following extensive consultations with stakeholders. The period leading up to February will be used to address existential issues affecting the party, with a timeline of activities proposed to ensure stability.

The forum criticized the economic policies of the APC-led Federal Government, noting the growing hardship Nigerians face due to oppressive economic decisions. It called on the President to urgently review macroeconomic and fiscal policies to improve the welfare and well-being of citizens.

On electoral integrity, the forum raised concerns over alleged manipulation of results in the recent Edo Governorship Election, where it claimed the APC candidate was favored despite the PDP candidate, Mr. Asura Godolo, winning the majority of lawful votes. It called on the judiciary to safeguard democracy and urged the National Assembly to amend electoral laws to prevent institutional sabotage of the people’s will.

The forum praised PDP members in the National Assembly for their diligence in promoting fairness and equity in legislative processes. It also commiserated with: The government and people of Plateau State over the recent Katako Market fire incident, which destroyed properties worth millions of naira; and also the government and people of Jigawa State following a tanker explosion that claimed several lives and left many injured.

The forum expressed gratitude to the Plateau State Government and the people of Jos for hosting the meeting. Senator Mohammed commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his administration’s transformative strides in social services, tourism, and transportation. The forum encouraged Nigerians to look forward to the replication of these successes nationwide under PDP leadership.

“The forum is optimistic that the PDP will reclaim its rightful position in Nigeria by 2027, by the grace of God,” Senator Mohammed concluded.

The meeting was chaired by Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Bauchi State) and hosted by Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau State). Other attendees included:
H.E. Dr. Agbu Kefas (Taraba State)
H.E. Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa State)
H.E. Seyi Makinde (Oyo State)
H.E. Dr. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara State)
Deputy Governors Monday Onyeme (Delta State) and Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai (Enugu State).

The meeting was attended by several National Assembly members, and party stakeholders from across the country, marking a significant step toward strengthening the party’s position and addressing national challenges.

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Prof. Onoja Leads the Charge in Validating Nigeria’s 2025-2029 Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy

Stakeholders in the Marine and Blue Economy sector gathered in Abuja to validate the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy (2025-2029), a strategic framework designed to revolutionize Nigeria’s fisheries and aquaculture industry.

Prof. Anthony Onoja, the Team Lead of the Policy Writing Committee, unveiled the policy’s three core objectives during the event:
1. Sustainable Development: Promoting fisheries and aquaculture to enhance nutrition and food security.
2. Resource Optimization: Achieving self-sufficiency, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability in fish production through efficient resource utilization.
3. Economic Empowerment: Providing inclusive livelihoods, creating wealth, and reducing poverty nationwide.

Prof. Onoja, a renowned scholar, Professor Extraordinarius at the University of South Africa, and President of the Agricultural Policy Research Network (APRNet), emphasized the policy’s focus on sustainable growth and resilience.

Declaring the event open, the Honorable Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, commended the collaborative effort behind the policy. He highlighted its significance in ensuring food security and sustainability.

“The primary goal of this policy is to enhance sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture production in Nigeria, ensuring a reliable supply of nutritious food for our growing population,” Minister Oyetola stated.

A key ambition of the policy is to boost aquaculture production by approximately one million metric tons within the next five years, solidifying Nigeria’s position as a leader in sustainable fisheries.

The policy, funded by the CGIAR Initiative on Aquatic Food Systems in partnership with the Nigerian government, is a collaborative effort involving the International Food Policy Research Institute, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, with Prof. Onoja leading the drafting process.

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Feel the Power of Positivity with Bizakeem’s Latest Anthem, “Believe”

Prepare to be inspired! Bizakeem’s latest release, “Believe”, is an electrifying anthem celebrating the resilience of the human spirit. This soul-stirring track is a tribute to overcoming challenges and striving for greatness.

With its dynamic beats and uplifting vocals, “Believe” strikes a chord with listeners from all walks of life. Bizakeem’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery make it a must-hear for anyone seeking motivation and encouragement.

But “Believe” is more than just a song—it’s a movement. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter the obstacles, we have the strength to rise above and achieve our dreams. Tune in, embrace the message, and let the music elevate your soul!

Enjoy!

DOWNLOAD MP3: Bizakeem – Believe