The Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) has sought partnership with the Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) to promote digital awareness and environmental consciousness ahead of the 2025 World Social Media Day.
During a courtesy visit to PEPSA headquarters on May 27, 2025, PLABOMA Chairman, Matthew Tegha, led members of the association to engage with the Director General of PEPSA and his team. He praised the agency’s commitment to keeping Plateau clean and sustainable, while proposing areas of collaboration, including a digital media retainership and joint participation in this year’s Social Media Day seminar.
Tegha noted that digital platforms play a vital role in amplifying public awareness and shaping community behaviour. “Our visit today is not only to express solidarity with your mission but also to seek meaningful collaboration that will further strengthen your agency’s reach and impact in the digital space,” he said.
In his remarks, PEPSA Director General, Samuel Dapiya, commended PLABOMA for maintaining professionalism and credibility in the digital media space. “Anyone can be a blogger,” he said, “but it takes years of consistency, sacrifice, and integrity to build a name that commands public trust.”
He underscored the role of media in driving behavioural change, especially around environmental sanitation. Recalling the agency’s decision to rely solely on social media for public mobilization during the January sanitation exercise, Dapiya described it as a successful test of digital influence. “We used only social media—no radio, no television—and yet the public turnout was impressive. That’s the power of what you do,” he stated.
Dapiya pledged to establish a working relationship with PLABOMA and expressed readiness to discuss the retainership proposal, stating, “Even if we can’t make lump-sum payments upfront, we’ll work out a structure that provides value to both sides.”
He also highlighted PEPSA’s ongoing initiatives including environmental protection, daily sanitation, and waste management. He noted that these efforts align with Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s vision of boosting tourism and creating a cleaner Plateau. He revealed that the agency is building a website, developing a mobile waste management app, and running an 8-day open defecation sensitization program—initiatives for which he welcomed PLABOMA’s media support.
Describing the association as a beacon of hope, the DG stated, “There is strength in your togetherness. I see your sacrifice and professionalism. You are part of Plateau, and we are glad to partner with you.”
The event concluded with mutual expressions of willingness to collaborate, particularly on the upcoming World Social Media Day celebration, slated for June 30, 2025.
As part of the 2025 Children’s Day celebration and in commemoration of the second anniversary of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration, the Pantu Brothers Initiative, Courtesy Mr. Yari Kumchi, has donated branded exercise books to schools across Mangu Local Government Area.
The benefiting schools include Mwanghavul Community Secondary School, Kerang; LEA Primary School, Fwangkwak; Nyemlighit Community Comprehensive Secondary School, Mangun; and Government Secondary School, Ampang West.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Mr. Panmun Silas Pantu, representing the Pantu Brothers, emphasized the initiative’s deeper meaning. “This gesture is more than just about stationery — these books represent unity, hope, and support in a time when many families are grappling with economic hardship,” he said.
He added that the books serve as educational palliatives, easing parents’ financial burdens while promoting learning among students.
The books are branded with the images of the Plateau State Governor and Deputy and include a unifying message titled “The Plateau Anthem,” encouraging peace and brotherhood across ethnic and religious lines. “It is a declaration that peace, brotherhood, and collective progress are the pillars upon which our future must be built,” Pantu stated.
Mr. Yari Kumchi was commended for his continuous investment in youth development. According to Pantu, Kumchi’s commitment to youth empowerment has created opportunities for the next generation to lead meaningfully.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the community, His Royal Highness, Miskhagham Philemon Mutang, thanked the donors and noted that MCSS Kerang remains the only Mwaghavul-owned school. “I encourage all our students to be serious with their education so they can uplift the good image of the Mwaghavul nation,” he said.
The Executive Chairman of Mangu LGA, Hon. Mwolpun Emmanuel Bala, represented by the Council Secretary, described the donation as historic. He stressed the impact such support brings, especially in a school whose alumni now serve in various sectors.
“I want to appreciate the donor of this exercise book, Honorable Yari Kumchi, who has deemed it fit to assist the Mwaghavul nation, not just Kerang people,” the chairman’s representative added.
Education Secretary, Mrs. Jennifer Bamtu, an alumna of MCSS Kerang, thanked the sponsors and urged more community support. “May God bless you for intervening… education sponsoring is for everybody — it’s not just government responsibility alone,” she stated.
Comrade Tankat Joseph Dawur, a proprietor and former NAPSS President, described the donation as timely and aligned with the governor’s development slogan, “the time is now.” He called for continued expansion of the initiative.
PTA Chairman, Mr. Mbang Sunday, expressed deep gratitude to the donors, describing Kumchi as a selfless son of the soil whose legacy stands out in Kerang’s history.
Head Boy and Head Girl of GSS Ampang West, Joseph Jerry Peter and Yatep Vera Gaius, thanked the donors on behalf of the students, praying for God’s blessings and urging them to continue the good work.
The event, powered by the Pantu Brothers and Jacob Tonging, was more than a donation—it served as a powerful call for unity, learning, and renewed hope for a stronger and better Plateau.
As the project continues to inspire hope, we call on government and relevant stakeholders to key into this noble idea and support its expansion across the state.
In a major crackdown on criminal activities, troops of the 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN have arrested three notorious armed robbers and recovered multiple firearms and ammunition in Jos North Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.
According to a statement by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer of Operation SAFE HAVEN, the arrests were made during sustained night patrols aimed at ridding the metropolis of criminal elements.
Key Arrests and Recoveries:
First Operation (May 24, 2025): Troops on patrol in Naraguta Area apprehended two armed robbers in possession of a pistol.
Second Operation (May 25, 2025): A notorious robber was arrested near Crest Hotel at Corner Shagari with a pistol and five rounds of 9mm ammunition. His confession led to the arrest of an accomplice in Massalachin Idi, Ali Kazaure Area, where another loaded pistol with five rounds of ammunition was recovered.
The suspects are currently in custody and providing useful information to aid further operations against their criminal network.
Major Zhakom reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing both urban centers and rural areas under their jurisdiction, vowing to sustain efforts in eliminating criminal activities.
“Operation SAFE HAVEN will leave nothing to chance in protecting the people of Plateau State,” he stated.
Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Released by: Maj. Samson Nantip Zhakom Media Information Officer, Operation SAFE HAVEN May 25, 2025
Are you bold, intelligent, and passionate about representing Plateau with pride and purpose?
Do you believe beauty is more than just appearance but a platform for change, leadership and culture?
The search is on for the next Queen who will rise to excellence!
Join the prestigious Face of Plateau 2025 Beauty Pageant. A platform that celebrates culture, character and leadership. This isn’t just a pageant, it is a life-changing experience that empowers young women to lead, inspires and make a real difference.
Why Enter?
A chance to become a Cultural Ambassador for Plateau State.
Leadership & personal development workshops.
A star prize worth ₦500,000 and more..
A platform to execute your pet project and advocate for youth/community development.
Who Can Apply?
Female Nigerian citizens resident in Plateau State from ages 18 to 27
Be Single.
At least 5.2 feet tall
Confident, eloquent and passionate about making impact.
Have a clean bill of health and solid moral character
Speak fluent English
Be drug-free and responsible
Have a heart for community service and leadership
How to Register
Send your name and a studio headshot to WhatsApp: 08115601779. Registration: ₦5,000, only (non-refundable).
For more details, call: 08115601779 08037978890
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @faceofplateau.
Uniting Plateau’s Future Leaders Under the Theme: “Every Child’s Right”
Jos, Nigeria – May 20, 2025 –
The vibrant city of Jos came alive on Sunday, May 18th, as the Little Miss Plateau Pageant 2025 (Season 3) held its grand finale at the Sarau Event Centre, Behind NTA Network Centre. The highly anticipated event, organized by Africulfash, showcased the intelligence, creativity, and leadership qualities of 17 exceptional girls aged 8 to 12, from different schools on the plateau, each representing one of Plateau State’s 17 local government areas.
With this year’s theme, “Every Child’s Right,” the pageant aimed to foster unity, inclusion, and confidence among children—regardless of tribe, religion, or state of origin. Participation was open to all Nigerian girls living and schooling in Plateau State, provided they demonstrated the qualities of a future leader.
Each contestant underwent a series of assignments and evaluations prior to the event, which contributed 40% to their final score. The remaining 60% was determined on the day of the finale, as participants competed in areas such as costume display, charisma, creativity, confidence, and question-and-answer rounds.
Winners of the Little Miss Plateau pageant 2025 are:
Perazim jerry-Eze who represented Langtang South– Crowned Little Miss Plateau 2025
Joan Ukah who represented Mikang local government– 1st Runner-Up (Crowned Little Miss Health)
Chizara Okeke who represented Jos East– 2nd Runner-Up (Crowned Little Miss Environment)
The event was adjudicated by a distinguished panel of judges: Mr. Rinji Kwashi, Miss Luret Dafur, and Miss Kyenpiya Nyabam, who commended the contestants for their brilliance, expression, and leadership potential.
According to the organizers: “The Little Miss Plateau pageant is open to every child born in Nigeria, staying and schooling in Plateau State. It doesn’t matter what tribe, religion, or background you come from—our focus is on developing future leaders and promoting unity among children.”
The event was proudly supported by a group of passionate sponsors and partners, including: Beautiful Bride Outfit Jos, Cathy’s Apparel, Yeipys Cakes & Beauty Studio, Ma Coutture, Gavi Property and Estate Nig. Ltd., Future Feat, Axia Hub, Resilient African Kitchen, Blue House Technology, Kefiano Creative Hub, Love Tech, My Ajia, Chef Walis, Sunnyside, Africaplus, and endorsed by the Plateau State Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality and the Plateau State Tourism Corporation.
Africulfash expresses heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, partners, parents, and guests who made Season 3 a resounding success. Preparations are already underway for the 4th edition in 2026.
In a move to promote transparency and accountability, the Plateau State Government has concluded its ministerial press briefings, with various ministries presenting detailed reports of their achievements. The event, held at the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat in Jos, drew attention to the strides made across different sectors in the past months.
The briefings served as a platform for commissioners and top officials to highlight developmental achievements, policy implementations, and impact-driven initiatives.
The Plateau State Ministry of Finance, led by Hon. Mrs. Dongkum Grace Shwarta, has made impressive progress since 2023. A major milestone was clearing over ₦14 billion in backlog payments, including salaries, pensions, and third-party deductions.
The Ministry saved ₦500 million through a thorough payroll verification process. This initiative helped streamline government spending and promote financial discipline.
To strengthen tertiary education, ₦2 billion was released to secure accreditation for courses across Plateau State’s higher institutions.
Health workers received a 75% hazard allowance, while the new minimum wage was implemented promptly to support civil servants.
To cushion the impact of fuel subsidy removal, ₦12,000 monthly palliatives were paid to workers, pensioners, and appointees, totaling ₦1.6 billion.
The government also raised the minimum pension from ₦5,188 to ₦20,000 and increased the monthly pay of street cleaners to ₦16,000.
“We have been looking at how we can partner with pension companies and other interested stakeholders to ensure that we clear all the outstanding,” said Hon. Shwarta. “Many signed projects were delayed due to unpaid counterpart funding when this administration came in.”
Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, under Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, presented its achievements. Key accomplishments include aligning the 17 Local Government Councils with the State and National Development Plans and clearing ₦5.6 billion in inherited salary and pension arrears. The Ministry renovated its headquarters and zonal offices, procured vehicles for security agencies, and supported PLASU with a coaster bus. It also boosted agriculture by distributing fertilizers and enhanced staff capacity through workshops and training.
The Local Government Service Commission processed 9,530 staff promotions, held 43 training programs, and deployed legal officers. The Traditional Institution received renewed attention, with vacant stools filled and appointment letters issued to chiefs previously ignored. The Governor directed the filling of all remaining vacancies.
These efforts underscore the administration’s commitment to grassroots development and community harmony. Citizens are urged to support the administration’s ongoing progress.
The Ministry of Higher Education, under Dr. Mrs. Kachallom Pyam Gang, secured full accreditation for all tertiary institutions in the state, thanks to the support of Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
Over ₦1.5 billion was invested into Plateau State University, the Polytechnic, College of Education, and College of Nursing and Midwifery to improve quality and infrastructure.
Nineteen new degree programs were approved for the College of Education, Gindiri, while a 150-capacity conference center and two-story administrative building were initiated at Plateau State University and the Polytechnic respectively.
“We have also been able to renovate the Polytechnic clinic into a medical center, which now serves staff, students, and the HIPAA community,” said Dr. Gang.
The Ministry of Agriculture, led by Hon. Bugama Samson Ishaku, cultivated 6,000 hectares of farmland in 2023 and aims to increase this to 50,000 hectares in 2024 to restore livelihoods affected by crises.
Support from ASTC and other partners facilitated the use of mechanized farming, improved seedlings for maize and potatoes, and successful wheat and barley trials in Riyom and Bokkos.
To reduce middlemen exploitation, the state established Plakon, a commodity company. “Plakon began lopping up last year,” Hon. Ishaku said. “This year, we’re fixing stalls for direct off-taking during harvest.”
The Ministry of Livestock Development, led by Dr. Sunday Akpa, launched Nigeria’s first modern livestock village in Plateau State, a milestone project supported by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
The Ministry also vaccinated 140,000 cattle, 50,000 sheep and goats, and 4.5 million local chickens. A new veterinary clinic was opened on Niangulu Road to boost animal health services.
The Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, under Hon. Adams Bulus Lekshak, developed the state’s first Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper, aligning with national economic goals.
It coordinated over 43 donor-funded projects, organized town halls in all three senatorial zones, published the 2025 budget online, and supported nutrition programs and school feeding in partnership with UNICEF and HELLO International.
Hon. Bashir Datti Lawandi, Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy, highlighted the passage of the Plateau State Water Users Association Bill. The bill enabled Plateau to join the Sustainable Performance for Improved WASH in Nigeria (SPIN) program.
He noted partnerships with Prime Power and the International Energy Agency (IEA) to scale renewable energy and mini-grids. “We improved annual water production to over 8 million… increased customer connections and improved water testing,” said a representative on his behalf. Over ₦1 billion was spent on water treatment chemicals, and 140 new staff were recruited.
Revenue collection rose from ₦68 million to ₦112 million, and solar-grid projects in rural areas have improved lives of 89,000 residents.
With these detailed reports, the Mutfwang-led administration has shown a commitment to purposeful leadership. The ministerial briefings not only showcased progress but also set a tone of openness and responsibility—promising a brighter, better Plateau for all.
Life changed forever for a young girl in Lagos, Nigeria, when her father, a dedicated officer in the Nigeria Police Force, passed away 13 years ago. Left with her mother and five siblings, she’s faced hardship beyond her years. “It has not been easy,” she shares in a tearful interview. “Sometimes we go to bed hungry. But we still have hope.”
Her story is just one among many touched by the Kedrick Scribner Foundation (KSF), a charity dedicated to restoring dignity and hope to widows, orphans, and underserved communities. Founded in 2020 by Dr. Kedrick Scribner, a U.S. veteran and minister, Kedrick Scribner Foundation was born out of compassion after he met widows of fallen Nigerian police officers while attending the academy at The Police College, Ikeja.
Through the Widows Mite initiative, KSF hosts biannual support events in Lagos, offering food, healthcare, and essential services. In one deeply moving case, KSF helped a sick widow return to her village, 28 hours from Lagos, after ensuring her family was fed and safe.
KSF’s impact extends further with a free vocational center launched in 2023, training over 500 people in ICT and tailoring. Their work is not just about charity—it’s about empowerment.
The Kedrick Scribner Foundation (KSF), established in 2020 and registered in both the U.S. and Nigeria, is a non-profit focused on uplifting underprivileged individuals. Inspired by widows of fallen Nigerian police officers, founder Dr. Kedrick Scribner launched the “Widows Mite” initiative, providing biannual support events in Lagos. KSF also built a free vocational center in 2023, training over 700 beneficiaries in ICT, tailoring, and bead making. The foundation collaborates with partners to offer education, medical aid, and empowerment for widows, children, and U.S. veterans. KSF’s mission is to restore hope and dignity to vulnerable families through compassion, skills development, and sustained support.
They currently have 130 students in Tailoring, 120 students in bead making, and over 160 students in ICT.
With the motto “Serving people is what we do because we love,” KSF stands as a beacon of love, turning sorrow into strength. Visit www.kedrickscribnerfoundation.org to learn how you can be part of this mission of hope.our story:
Jos, Plateau State – May 23, 2025 – The Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) concluded its 13th National Delegates’ Conference today in Jos, Plateau State, with a strong call for greater administrative and financial autonomy for State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) as a critical pathway to deepening democracy at the grassroots level.
The three-day conference, held from May 20–23, 2025, brought together delegates comprising Chairmen, Members, and Secretaries of SIECs from 27 states across the federation. Themed “Local Government Elections in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities,” the event was officially declared open by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Hon. (Barr.) Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
In his keynote address, Prof. Samuel Egwu, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of INEC in Benue State, underscored the need for systemic reforms to bolster the capacity of SIECs in conducting credible local elections. Other notable paper presentations included contributions from Assoc. Prof. Mohammed B. Babanumma, Prof. Alphonsus Okoh Alubo SAN, Barr. Cynthia Mbamalu of YIAGA Africa, and Mr. Martins Oloja of The Guardian Newspaper, covering diverse aspects of electoral independence, legal frameworks, civic competence, and grassroots democracy.
The conference highlighted several persistent challenges affecting SIEC operations, including legal ambiguities, inadequate funding, and limited public confidence. In response, FOSIECON proposed a set of far-reaching recommendations aimed at reforming local government elections, including: • Granting full administrative and financial autonomy to SIECs; • Institutionalizing regular stakeholder engagement across Nigeria’s 768 local government areas; • Promoting internal democracy and accountability within political parties; • Extending INEC-strengthened legal reforms to SIECs; • Adopting provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 to ensure uniformity in local election procedures; • Enhancing civic education in partnership with civil society organizations and development partners.
Delivering goodwill messages at the conference were representatives of key stakeholders such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Development Alternatives Incorporated (DAI), United States Institute of Peace (USIP), and the Inter-party Advisory Council (IPAC). The Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, was also represented.
In its concluding communiqué, FOSIECON reaffirmed the legitimacy and necessity of SIECs within Nigeria’s federal structure, rejecting any suggestion of their abolition. The Forum emphasized that SIECs remain a vital instrument for leadership recruitment and democratic consolidation at the grassroots level.
The Academic Staff Union of Colleges of Agriculture (ASUCA) has strongly rejected the recent appointment of a university professor as Provost/CEO of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, calling the process irregular and a violation of agreed protocols.
In a press briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Jos, the Acting National President of ASUCA, Comrade Williams Manggoel, condemned the appointment, noting that it contradicts the eligibility criteria published in a national advertisement on November 15, 2024. The role, according to the advert, was specifically for qualified academic staff from Federal Colleges of Agriculture (FCA) and National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs).
ASUCA described the move as a threat to the integrity of the system and a demoralizing act against long-serving professionals in the sector. “Appointing university professors to head agricultural colleges they are unfamiliar with is not only unfair but discouraging to career agricultural educators,” Manggoel stated.
The Union also criticized the recent advertisement for the Provost/CEO position at the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Vom, which opens eligibility to associate professors — a shift ASUCA believes is another attempt to reintroduce university staff into the colleges’ leadership against prior agreements.
Additionally, ASUCA expressed frustration over the continued delay in releasing an updated Scheme of Service (SOS) and Condition of Service (COS) for federal colleges of agriculture, which has remained stagnant since 2004.
The Union is demanding the reversal of the Ibadan appointment, correction of the Vom advertisement, and evidence of progress on the long-awaited SOS/COS. “We will not allow the erosion of our system’s identity and integrity,” Manggoel concluded.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has announced a strategic partnership with Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, to transform the iconic Nigeria Standard building into a state-of-the-art digital hub aimed at creating employment opportunities and empowering young talents across the state.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Governor at the Twin Theatre, New Government House, Rayfield, Jos, on Wednesday, Dr. Tijani said the initiative aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang to equip Plateau youths with cutting-edge digital skills that will enhance national productivity and economic growth.
The Minister disclosed that Plateau State has been selected as one of the pilot locations for the deployment of 7,000 new telecom towers across the country, which is an ambitious federal initiative designed to extend connectivity to underserved areas and bolster national security infrastructure.
“Your Excellency, we recognize your efforts. Whatever it takes to make this vision a reality, we will pursue it. We see in Plateau State the key to Nigeria’s success. Think about the creative sectors that have elevated our national profile, many of those talents emerged from Jos. This city is welcoming, hospitable, and brimming with potential,” Dr. Tijani remarked.
He further recalled his longstanding affinity with Plateau, stating: “Your passion has drawn me to this state. Since our meeting in Sweden, we have been working on concrete plans to advance technological innovation in Plateau.state”
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to digital expansion, the Minister said, “We are compelled to ensure that the President’s agenda of deepening digital infrastructure becomes a reality nationwide. Imagine the transformation if every corner of Plateau is digitally connected. Smart technology can revolutionize agriculture, healthcare, and security. For a city like Jos, digital connectivity is not optional, it is essential.”
Dr. Tijani also highlighted the pivotal role of fiber-optic networks, satellite technology, and digital skill development in achieving Nigeria’s ambition of becoming a one trillion-dollar digital economy. He unveiled plans to launch a Talent City Project in Jos and promote Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) to provide sustainable career pathways for the youth.
He called for increased enrollment of Plateau youths in the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, a flagship national initiative aimed at building a robust and globally competitive tech workforce.
Responding, Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the Minister’s visit as timely and strategic encounter, echoing his administration’s vision of positioning Plateau as a hub for digital innovation.
Referencing the legacy of JD Gomwalk, the founding father of the state, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the importance of safeguarding Plateau’s identity through progressive infrastructure and technological advancement.
“I’m particularly encouraged by your thoughts on linking technology and security,” the Governor stated. “We must address the challenges posed by our unmanned and ungoverned spaces, especially along the northern border, where we’ve witnessed increased trans-Sahelian movement. These trends contribute significantly to our security concerns.
“With the application of modern technology, we can introduce effective surveillance and control measures, alternatives far more efficient than the idea of building brick walls like in some other countries.”
He added, “We appreciate your visit deeply. And as you leave, rest assured that you will not only take strawberries with you, you will take the full warmth and hospitality that Plateau has to offer.”
