Rising Nigerian and J-Town’s most wanted artist, Promphizy, delivers a dose of nostalgic vibes and heartfelt energy in his latest single, “Local Way.”
Teaming up with legendary producer Jhay2unez, who has produced for artists such as Young Jonn, Asake, Seyi Vibez, and many more, the track seamlessly blends catchy melodies with an upbeat rhythm.
With its Afro-infused bounce and deeply personal message, Local Way is a relatable anthem. In the song, “local way” means dirty, bad, or something negative.
Promphizy (Joel Pomack Dennis) is a Nigerian Afro-pop singer, songwriter, and performer. Born and raised in Jos, he has carved out a strong presence in northern Nigeria’s music scene, earning a reputation as one of the region’s top Afrobeats talents. He is known for singles like “Emotions,” “Philo,” and “Lagos Traffic.” His breakout 2023 single “Loyal” became one of Jos’s most popular tracks in 2024, cementing his place as one of the region’s most promising Afro-pop voices.
With “Local Way,” Promphizy signals a new chapter showcasing a lighter, more playful sound while staying rooted in the rich emotional storytelling that made him one to watch.
Listen to “Local Way” on all major streaming platforms.
WIDOW’S MITE 6.0 | STANDING STRONG, MOVING FORWARD Hosted by Kedrick Scribner Foundation, Inc. June 28–29, 2025 | United Church of Christ in Nigeria AKA HEKAN Church, Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos
In a world that often overlooks the sacrifices of the unseen, the Kedrick Scribner Foundation Inc. a US NGO responded with purpose and compassion. Widow’s Mite 6.0 was more than an event—it was a lifeline, a celebration of strength, and a movement of healing for the Widows and Orphans Of Nigeria’s Fallen Police Heroes.
Held at The United Church of Christ in Nigeria, AKA HEKAN Church, Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos, the 2025 edition carried the empowering theme: “Standing Strong, Moving Forward.”
A Joyful Spirit of Service The weekend was hosted by renowned Lagos comedian and Master of Ceremonies MC Abilitea, whose blend of humor and heart kept the energy high and the atmosphere warm. He inspired laughter, connection, and moments of joy in the midst of reflection and remembrance.
DAY ONE: Medical Relief, Empowerment, Education, and Celebration
Saturday, June 28
Over 1,000 widows, orphans, and guests gathered for a transformative day dedicated to compassion, healing, and hope. Many journeyed from across Lagos and surrounding communities to receive care, dignity, and the affirmation that their lives matter.
Life-Saving Medical Outreach: Bringing the Clinic to the Community
The robust medical outreach program brought together top medical professionals and health institutions to deliver vital services:
Medical screenings for malaria, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic illnesses
Vision testing and 693 prescription eyeglasses distributed
Hepatitis B screening and awareness
Typhoid and malaria testing with free medications
Counseling and health maintenance education
Emergency referrals for high-risk individuals
Medical Partners Included:
Dr. Adeniran – Ministry of Health/GMAT (Optometrist)
Dr. Akintayo – Ministry of Health, Obalende Primary Health Centre
Dr. Ujoma – Health Matters Incorporated / World Diabetic Foundation, Yaba
Giving Life Through Blood:
In a powerful act of solidarity, Dr. Kedrick Scribner was the first to give blood onsite, helping “Give Life” to those in need. This act set the tone for the medical mission. The Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS), Gbagada was present and active throughout the outreach, offering life-saving opportunities for both donors and recipients.
1,000 Lives Touched Through Health Insurance Enrollment
Partnering with LASHMA, the Foundation enrolled 1,000 vulnerable participants into the Ilera Eko Health Plan, a fully funded, comprehensive insurance scheme.
“This health insurance intervention is not just about medical care—it’s about dignity, about giving these Police Widows and their children and Police Orphans the basic right to live without fear of illness and medical neglect.”
—Dr. Kedrick Scribner
Health Seminars That Heal and Equip
Led by Dr. Olusegun Adebayo Mustapha, Clinical Haematologist at LASUTH, the seminars covered:
Stroke prevention and cardiovascular health
Dangers of high blood pressure
Emergency response techniques and lifestyle risk awareness
Attendees gained life-saving insight on early warning signs, first-aid, and how to manage health challenges with confidence and faith.
Vocational Graduation: A Future Reimagined
Sixty-two widows, orphans, and youth graduated from the Kedrick Scribner Vocational Center after six months of intensive training in:
Computer Literacy & Digital Entrepreneurship—27 graduates
•Tailoring & Fashion Design – 15 Graduates
• Bead Making and Accessories – 20 Graduates
Each graduate received a starter kit—bead tools, laptops, or sewing machines—to launch their journey to self-sufficiency.
“Empowerment for us is more than a slogan—it is giving people the tools to rise and thrive.” — Dr. Kedrick Scribner
Graduates proudly displayed their skills in a runway show and exhibition that radiated joy and confidence.
A Message of Purpose: Elder Shawn Green
Elder Shawn Green, Youth Pastor from The Church of the Redeemed of The Lord in Baltimore, Maryland, delivered a keynote titled: “Loving, Leading, and Lifting Our Children—Even When Life Changes.”
With heartfelt insight, he encouraged parents and caregivers to lead with love and faith, even through grief. His message brought both comfort and renewed courage to many in the audience.
The Widows’ Song: A Gift of Gratitude
Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, the widows collectively expressed their appreciation in a powerful and emotional moment of song. Their voices lifted in unison, singing in celebration of Dr. Kedrick Scribner, a man they now call family:
“Na our papa be this ooo, we no get another one, Na our papa be this ooo!”
(This is our father, we don’t have another one, this is our father!)
Their heartfelt tribute honored Dr. Scribner as a source of hope and unwavering support, affirming that his compassion and leadership have left a lasting imprint on their lives.
Care and Comfort in Every Package
At the close of Day One, the Foundation distributed care packages filled with essential household items including spices, noodles, sauces, and a 5-kilogram bag of rice. These gifts provided immediate support and reminded each recipient that their lives, needs, and dignity truly matter.
Hospitality in Action: Feeding the Multitude
Throughout the two-day event, the Foundation fed over 2,000 attendees, including widows, orphans, volunteers, church members, and guests.
Attendees were served hot packaged containers of jollof rice and beef, prepared fresh from a cow purchased specifically for the event. Water and assorted sodas were provided, while children attending seminars received snacks to stay nourished and engaged. The atmosphere reflected generosity, unity, and a deep commitment to community care.
DAY TWO: Thanksgiving, Forgiveness, and Faith
Sunday, June 29 The Power of Forgiveness
Dr. Scribner delivered a sermon inspired by Luke 23:34:
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
He encouraged the audience to release bitterness and embrace peace through forgiveness.
Dr. Scribner also paid heartfelt tribute to his wife, Victoria Scribner, and children, Kedrick Jr. and Miranda, calling them “the wind beneath this mission.” Their love was visibly expressed as they hugged, supported, and uplifted widows and orphans throughout the weekend—a living example of the KSF Foundation’s core values: love, service, and restoration.
He also expressed sincere gratitude to Pastor Daniel Nuhu, the Board of Elders of The United Church of Christ in Nigeria, AKA HEKAN Church, and OC DSP Yakubu Nyat of the Mounted Troops Barracks, Ikeja, Lagos, for their continued support and collaboration in allowing the Foundation to serve the Widows and Orphans of Nigeria’s Fallen Police Heroes. Also, he appreciated Dr Mark Osa Igiehon for the support he provided, and the staff of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Mrs. Steve-Sani Jennifer, Ikeja Divisional Coordinator and Mr. Aare Mutiu, Enrolment officer. He also extended his sincere appreciation to Elder Shawn Green of the Church of the Redeemed of the Lord, Baltimore, MD, USA and Dr. Patricia McDougall, who came form the United States to support the widows and orphans.
He also appreciated Master of Ceremonies, MC Abilitea for all the life and entertainment he brought to the event.
“The atmosphere was electric with emotion as widows embraced one another—united not only by shared loss, but by a restored sense of dignity, hope, and renewed purpose.”
He specially thanked the team at the Kedrick Scribner Vocational Center for their dedication and hard work towards making the day successful.
Vision Through the Lens: Photography with Purpose
Dr. Patricia McDougall, CEO of Patricia’s Professional Photos, LLC. led a Youth Photography Class and Visionary Seminar. She taught young participants how to use the camera to capture stories of resilience and purpose. Her mentorship created a powerful connection between youth in Baltimore and Lagos, symbolizing the Foundation’s global mission.
Looking Ahead: Widow’s Mite 7.0 — “Story to Glory”
January 24–25, 2026 | United Church of Christ in Nigeria (HEKAN), Ikeja Widow’s Mite 7.0 will celebrate stories of triumph—women rising from hardship through testimony, training, and shared purpose.
Following the recent development in the APC, where Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, was elected by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to fill the seat vacated by former National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, who resigned due to health issues, the Concerned Arewa Youths in Home and Diaspora has called on the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider Prof. Doknan Decent Danjuma Sheni, a renowned scholar, academia, educationist, and humanitarian, for the ministerial slot representing Plateau State.
_Why Prof. DDD Sheni Deserves a Ministerial Role
With a proven track record of leadership, innovation, and dedication to public service, Prof. Sheni is an exceptional candidate for a ministerial position. His achievements in academia, education, and humanitarian work make him a valuable asset to any government. As a distinguished academic and leader, Prof. Sheni has demonstrated remarkable expertise and dedication to public service, making him an excellent fit for a ministerial role.
_Profile – Prof. Doknan Decent Danjuma Sheni_
Prof. Sheni is a renowned Nigerian scholar, academia, and educationist with a strong background in optometry. As the former Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University, Bokkos, he transformed the institution, ensuring accreditation of all courses and promoting staff welfare. Prof. Sheni’s commitment to human capital development led to collaborations with world-class universities, enabling Plateau State indigenes to obtain PhDs and Master’s degrees. Prof. Sheni is also an inventor with a patent, showcasing his innovative spirit and contribution to scientific advancements.
_Who is Prof. DDD Sheni?_
Prof. Sheni is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a grassroots mobilizer, known for his dedication to the party’s ideals. He is also a member of the North Central Peoples Forum, Plateau Elders Forum, and Northern Elders Forum, showcasing his commitment to regional and national development. Additionally, he holds the prestigious title of Garkuwan Matasan Arewa, a Chieftaincy title that reflects his influence and leadership in the Arewa community. With international work experience in Saudi Arabia and South Africa, Prof. Sheni brings a wealth of global knowledge and expertise to the table.
Why Prof. DDD Sheni is a Valuable Asset
With over 45 years of experience in lecturing at the university level, Prof. Sheni has established himself as a leading figure in academia. His achievements include:
Academic Achievements: Prof. Sheni is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, South African Optometric Association, and Nigerian Optometric Association. He has published several refereed papers in international journals and authored books on clinical optometry and binocular vision.
Leadership Experience: Prof. Sheni served as Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University, Bokkos, and Chairman of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of State-owned Universities. He was also President of the World Council of Optometry and Association of African Optometric Educators.
Humanitarian Work: Prof. Sheni is the founder of the Decent Danjuma Foundation, which focuses on empowering widows and promoting community development.
Awards and Recognitions
Prof. Sheni’s contributions to academia, leadership, and humanitarian work have earned him numerous recognitions, including:
Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON): Awarded by President Muhammadu Buhari for his contributions to education and public service.
International Optometrist of the Year: Awarded by the World Council of Optometry for his outstanding contributions to optometry.
Africa’s Patriotic Personality of the Year: Awarded by the League of African Development Students for his dedication to nation-building and human capital development.
A Strong Case for Prof. DDD Sheni’s Ministerial Appointment
Given his impressive background and achievements, we believe that Prof. Doknan Decent Danjuma Sheni is an excellent fit for the Plateau State ministerial position. His leadership experience, academic expertise, and commitment to humanitarian work make him a valuable asset to any government. We humbly request that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu considers Prof. Sheni’s candidacy for this role, leveraging his skills and expertise to drive policy and development in Plateau State.
Conclusion
The Concerned Arewa Youths in Home and Diaspora strongly believe that Prof. DDD Sheni has the potential to make a positive impact in the government. We urge President Tinubu to consider his candidacy for the Plateau State ministerial position, recognizing his exceptional leadership qualities and dedication to public service.
Signatories: 1. _Faisal Zubairu – Representing North-West 2. Aishattu Abubakar – Representing North-East 3. Olamilekan Tunde Ajayi – Representing North-Central _For Concerned Arewa Youths From 19 Northern States, Region and in Diaspora
In a heartwarming display of community service and youth development, a serving NYSC Corps member, Tertsea Iorpuu Murphy and his team, has launched the Off the Street Empowerment Program in the Kufang community of Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State. The four-week skills acquisition initiative is aimed at empowering 20 underprivileged youths with hands-on training in various vocational trades including barbing, makeup artistry, shoemaking, bag making, and baking.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Tertsea, who is posted to NTA Jos, explained the motivation behind the project. “This is my host community, and I wanted to give back meaningfully before my service year ends. The goal is to take youths off the street and empower them with skills they can use to create wealth for themselves and their families,” he said. “We’ve worked with community leaders to select 20 participants, and at the end of the four weeks, they will be given starter packs to launch their own businesses.”
The program has received generous support from several individuals and organizations, with Mrs. Violet Adama Kaburuk being one of the major sponsors. While declaring the program open, she praised the Corps member’s initiative and expressed strong belief in its impact.
“Tertsea approached me with this vision, and I was deeply moved,” she stated. “He could have chosen to serve and leave quietly, but instead, he chose to uplift the youth here in Jos South. We are not just training them; we’re also orienting them on responsibility. Since the support isn’t coming from them directly, it’s even more important they show dedication. If more young Nigerians take such steps, we’ll make real progress in tackling youth unemployment.”
Also speaking, the Village Head of Kufang, Mr. Dung Chibi, lauded the Corps members for their selfless efforts. “This is a wonderful privilege for our community,” he said. “This kind of program is exactly what our youth need. I urge all participants to take it seriously, follow the guidelines, and make the most of it. With commitment, they can change their own lives and inspire others.”
One of the beneficiaries, Nancy Mancha, a recent secondary school graduate, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity. “I’m really grateful for this big opportunity. It means a lot to me and others like me. I pray that God continues to open doors for the organizers.”
The Off the Street Empowerment Program runs from August 4 to 31, 2025, at various points in Kufang, Jos South, and sessions commence daily at 9 a.m.
Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos, former member representing Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency, is organizing the Northern Zone Youth Summit on August 20th. The event will take place at the Sarau Event Center and is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM.
The summit is themed “Equipping the Next Generation, Transforming Tomorrow,” and is designed to inspire and empower young people across the Northern Zone of Plateau State.
It will bring together youths to discuss leadership, development, unity, and the role of young people in building a better society.
The event is powered by the Next Generation League and Bagos Loyalty Network, both of which are committed to youth involvement in peace, progress, and positive transformation.
This is more than just a gathering; it is a movement. Let’s shape the future one step, one voice, one vision at a time. It’s a call to action for every passionate young mind.
Bagos believes the Northern Zone is a vital part of Plateau’s progress. “Northern Zone: Our Precious Heartbeat. Together we EQUIP, UNITE, BUILD, and DEFEND,” the summit’s message declares.
Through this summit, Bagos continues his legacy of service by investing in the next generation and strengthening the foundation for a peaceful and united society.
Jos, Nigeria – August 1, 2025 – In a significant move to strengthen peace and conflict resolution efforts in Plateau State, the Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA) officially adopted the structures established under the Peace Action for Rapid Transformative and Nigerian Early Response (PARTNER) Project. The handover ceremony, held at FOX Hotels in Jos, Plateau State, brought together community leaders, youth representatives, and development partners to celebrate the transition and reaffirm their commitment to building sustainable peace across the state.
The event began with an opening remark by the Director General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, Dr. Julie Sanda, who welcomed stakeholders and commended the success of the PARTNER Project since its inception in 2022. She acknowledged Mercy Corps, WANEP (West Africa Network for Peacebuilding), and the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) for their vital roles in the project’s execution.
Dr. Sanda highlighted that the adoption of the structures signifies not just a handover, but a shared responsibility in maintaining and scaling the impact of the initiative. She reiterated the agency’s commitment to sustaining the gains recorded and ensuring the community-led systems for peace continue to thrive.
Following her remarks, Mr. Manji Mangrock, Program Manager for WANEP Nigeria (Abuja Office), shared insights into the development and implementation of the PARTNER Project. He explained that the project began in Tier 1 states—Plateau and Kaduna—and expanded to Tier 2 states such as Nasarawa and Kano. The initiative focused on strengthening early warning systems, promoting social cohesion, and resolving community-level conflicts.
He noted that despite the abrupt termination of the USAID grant in early 2025, WANEP and the Plateau Peace Building Agency continued working together to ensure the structures would not be lost. The handover, he emphasized, marks a milestone in local ownership and sustainability.
Speaking as a community youth representative, Mr. Vileng Danbaki Daniel, Youth Chairman of the Bijim Development Association, expressed appreciation for the inclusion of youth leaders in the peacebuilding process. He praised the Plateau State government and PPBA for adopting the structures, describing it as a major achievement for grassroots peace efforts.
“We now move freely across once-divided communities. Trade, dialogue, and peaceful interactions have returned because of this initiative,” he stated. Daniel emphasized that peace must be built through community involvement, dialogue, and accurate communication.
Participants from different communities also shared moving success stories. Pius Chuhwak Davou from Kwata community said that before the intervention, young people were often excluded from local decision-making. However, through the PARTNER Project, traditional leaders now engage youth actively, strengthening unity. Hafsat Ahmad shared how Bible Faith and Rafin Mpaa, previously in conflict, now coexist peacefully.
She described how peace walks and community-led campaigns helped bring reconciliation. Ezekiel Bameyi from Mangu reported a decline in substance abuse and improved family relationships. Representatives from Kongo Russia, Abbanashehu, and Gero also testified to reductions in farmer-herder clashes, cattle rustling, and long-standing marginalization.
Delivering the official acceptance speech, Mr. Nantip Joseph, Director of Program for PARTNER Structures at PPBA, acknowledged the collaborative nature of the project. He emphasized that the agency was part of the co-creation of the structures from the beginning, making the transition natural and seamless.
“We have previously adopted structures from organizations like Search for Common Ground, and we’ll continue to do so where structures are viable,” he said. Joseph reaffirmed PPBA’s commitment to supporting community actors and emphasized that sustainable peace must come from within the communities themselves. He pledged that the agency would continue to back the structures while urging local actors to take ownership of the peace process.
The adoption of the PARTNER Project structures by the Plateau Peace Building Agency represents a bold step towards locally driven, long-term peace in Plateau State. It highlights the power of collaboration, inclusion, and community ownership in addressing conflict and building resilience. As the state moves forward, stakeholders remain optimistic that these efforts will lead to a more peaceful and prosperous Plateau.
In a continued effort to strengthen community resilience and tackle the growing threat of violent extremism in Plateau State, the Plateau State Peace Building Agency (PPBA) on Thursday, July 31, 2025, convened the July edition of its monthly Plateau Peace Architectural Forum. Themed “Preventing Violent Extremism in Plateau State: Strengthening Community Resilience and Coordinated Action,” the event was held at Fox Hotel in Jos and brought together a diverse mix of stakeholders, including peace practitioners, youth groups, civil society organizations (CSOs), security agents, and government representatives.
Delivering her welcome address, the Director-General of the PPBA, Dr. Julie G. Sandra, emphasized that the persistent mention of violent extremism during past forums influenced the theme for the July edition. She noted that recent trends indicate a shift in the nature and drivers of violence in Plateau State.
“Last month, we observed that the conversations were no longer about intercommunal clashes or religious disputes alone. We began to see signs of ideologically driven violence and criminality that point to something deeper — an evolution into violent extremism,” Dr. Pwakim said.
She further stressed the importance of understanding the nuances of emerging threats. “If we do not properly grasp the changing dynamics of violence, our tools and strategies will remain ineffective. This forum is our opportunity to share knowledge, harmonize perspectives, and develop a contextualized strategy aligned with Nigeria’s national policy on preventing violent extremism.”
Dr. Julie also highlighted the agency’s deliberate inclusion of youth voices in the forum. “Young people are often seen only as tools of violence, but we must reposition them as agents of peace. That is why their participation in this conversation is vital.”
The keynote speaker, Mr. Boniface Anthony, Programme Manager at the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), delivered an address on the topic “Rethinking Prevention: Contextualizing Violent Extremism Narratives and Strengthening Community-Led Response in Plateau State.”
He traced the roots of extremist violence in the region back to identity-based conflicts, land disputes, political exclusion, and governance failure.
“Since 2001, Plateau State has faced a series of crises that have evolved from religious and ethnic clashes to more complex, organized armed violence. These are no longer isolated security issues but systemic threats that weaken communal bonds, increase distrust in institutions, and fuel further instability,” he said.
Anthony warned against underestimating local narratives that justify violence. “These narratives are not imported from foreign terror cells; they are homegrown, exploiting real frustrations — from perceived land grabbing to political marginalization. If left unchallenged, they radicalize vulnerable youth and normalize violence as a means of expressing grievances.”
In her presentation, Judith Nendelmwa Remson of the PAVE Network unpacked the National Action Plan on Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE) and explained how it can be adapted to Plateau’s context.
“Our work must be grounded in dialogue, trust-building, youth engagement, inclusive governance, and the rule of law. We cannot copy and paste national plans; we must localize them to reflect the unique challenges faced by Plateau communities,” she asserted.
One of the forum’s critical sessions featured a presentation by the Security Desk Officer of Kanam LGA, Mr. Peter Choji, who debunked recent reports of mass killings of vigilantes in Kukawa. “Investigations show that those killed were Fulani militia who migrated through Wase. They were neither vigilantes nor residents of Kukawa. The misinformation must be addressed to avoid unnecessary panic and hate,” Choji clarified.
Interactive breakout sessions followed, where participants were grouped to develop localized solutions to violent extremism. Panel discussions coordinated by PPBA’s Avizavi Christopher featured voices such as Mubarak Usman Ibrahim, a youth activist; Nafisat Abdulazeez from CREST; Hope Chuwang (PPBA); and Shepherd Lander, a conflict analyst. The discussions identified key challenges:
Signs of radicalization among youth often manifest through peer pressure, glorification of thuggery, and breakdown of moral authority at home and school. Drivers of extremism include weak parental supervision, ideological indoctrination by teachers, lack of social control, and poor governance. Gaps in current peace efforts such as poor implementation of resolutions, limited grassroots engagement, and lack of localized policies.
Youth leaders emphasized the need for young people to be equipped with tools for dialogue, forgiveness, and civic responsibility. “Violence must not be normalized. We are not condemned to repeat the cycle of war our parents lived through. We must be deliberate about breaking the chain,” said Shepherd Lander.
The Plateau Peace Practitioners Network, represented by its chairman Nanmak D. Bali, commended PPBA for sustaining the forum. “This forum is not just a talk shop; it is an incubator for solutions. But we must now act on our ideas. Twenty-five years of crisis prevention with no change is a call to do things differently,” he said.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Pwakim affirmed the agency’s commitment to sustaining the monthly forums. “We are building a movement. Each edition builds upon the last, and our goal is to leave no one behind. Peacebuilding is not a sprint but a marathon — and we must run it together.”
The forum ended with participants committing to follow-up engagements, including community sensitization campaigns, school-based peace clubs, and inter-group dialogues. There was also a consensus on integrating non-kinetic approaches and improving trust in judicial processes as critical next steps.
The July edition of the Plateau Peace Architectural Forum demonstrated that with shared responsibility, honest dialogue, and targeted action, the tide of violent extremism can be stemmed in Plateau State.
