The Coalition of Youths of Plateau North Senatorial District has formally endorsed Prof. Chris Kwaja for the Senate seat representing Plateau North Senatorial District, describing him as a visionary leader with the experience, integrity, and competence required to provide purposeful representation for the zone.

The endorsement, which took place on May 16, 2026, in Mista Ali (Mc Alley), Pengana Constituency of Bassa Local Government Area; the home constituency of Prof. Kwaja, brought together youths, stakeholders, and supporters from across the senatorial district. In a jointly signed letter and endorsement address, the coalition said its decision followed careful consideration of his leadership qualities and track record in peacebuilding, governance, youth empowerment, and community development.

Speaking during the event, the coalition praised Kwaja’s extensive local and international experience, noting his contributions in peace and security, governance, diplomacy, and policy development. The group highlighted his role as Country Director for Nigeria at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), his previous service as Director-General of Research and Planning in Plateau State, his tenure as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as his engagements with international institutions including the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The youths described him as “a global voice with deep local roots,” adding that his understanding of Plateau State’s social and political realities positioned him to effectively represent the interests of the people at the National Assembly.
The coalition also commended his consistent commitment to youth inclusion, peacebuilding, and inclusive governance, stressing that Plateau North requires a leader capable of bridging generational divides, strengthening unity, and advancing development across the district.

According to the coalition, Prof. Kwaja’s aspiration resonates deeply with the urgent need to break the cycle of poverty and exclusion in society. They noted that his message of leadership is rooted in the conviction that governance must actively dismantle structural poverty and expand opportunities for those at the margins, describing this as central to the motivation behind his political ambition.

In his remarks, Chris Kwaja said his aspiration is driven by a desire to give hope and representation to the less privileged and minority groups within society. He stated that he purchased the senatorial nomination form on behalf of ordinary people who often feel excluded from leadership, emphasizing that “one with God is a majority” and that everyone has the capacity to aspire and lead regardless of background.

He further urged young people, minorities, and all those who feel shut out of opportunity to hold each other up in the pursuit of change, stressing that transformation in society is not an individual journey but a collective responsibility. According to him, solidarity, mutual encouragement, and shared growth among such groups remain essential for building a more inclusive and just society.

Kwaja also challenged those present to reflect on the kind of society they desire and to begin contributing actively to positive change within their immediate communities and spheres of influence. He added that meaningful societal transformation requires collective responsibility and deliberate efforts from citizens at every level, reaffirming that his ambition is centered on improving the lives and opportunities of people across Plateau North Senatorial District.

Reflecting on his previous service in government, Kwaja recalled his time as Director-General of Research and Documentation and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs under the administration of former Governor Jonah Jang. He expressed appreciation to Da Jonah Jang for the opportunity to serve Plateau State, noting that the experience provided him with a platform to apply his knowledge and expertise in governance and public service for the benefit of the people.

The senatorial hopeful further emphasized the need to involve more young people in governance and decision-making processes, stressing that the future belongs to the youth and that they must be given space to participate actively in shaping society. He also noted that individuals should not limit themselves based on their background, drawing attention to the idea that greatness can emerge from unexpected places. He referenced the biblical account of Jesus, where people questioned, “Is this not the son of the carpenter?”, yet He went on to perform great wonders and is recognized as the Messiah, carrying the message and purpose of God.

He added that victory is not merely about winning elections, but about ensuring that the voices of the people are not silenced. According to him, collective voices and shared civic engagement are what society needs to drive meaningful change and build a better future.

The event ended with a formal declaration of support by the Coalition of Youths of Plateau North Senatorial District, which reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing support for Chris Kwaja’s senatorial bid under the vision slogan: “Voices – People! Voices! Mandate! Impact!”

Hon. Hitler Joshua Pwajok, Former Senior Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, has formally declared his intention to contest for the Barkin Ladi Constituency seat in the Plateau State House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 general elections under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Pwajok, in his declaration statement, said his decision was driven by the challenges facing the constituency, including unemployment, poor healthcare access, bad roads, weak schools, and the struggles of farmers and traders.

While disclosing to his supporters on social media, he said Barkin Ladi deserves leaders who will remain connected to the people and speak boldly on their behalf rather than becoming silent after getting elected.

He said his movement, tagged “Redefining the Future,” is built on the belief that empowering minds and creating opportunities for young people will transform the constituency and restore hope to families.

According to him, his priority areas include creating opportunities for youths, improving support for farmers and traders, upgrading schools and healthcare facilities, and promoting peace and security across communities.

Pwajok also promised to be an accessible representative who would maintain regular contact with the people in villages, churches, mosques, and markets throughout his time in office.

“I am not contesting to enrich myself,” he declared, adding that his ambition is rooted in service, courage, and commitment to the welfare of the people.

The aspirant said he would not rely on money politics but would instead run a people-focused campaign based on honesty, accountability, and grassroots engagement.

He appealed to residents of Barkin Ladi to support his aspiration, stressing that the journey to rebuild the constituency belongs to everyone and not one individual.

Pwajok expressed confidence that with unity and collective determination, the constituency can witness a new era of growth and responsive representation.

He further urged the people to believe in the possibility of change and stand together to create a better future for the next generation.

The declaration has added fresh momentum to political activities in Barkin Ladi as preparations begin ahead of the 2027 elections.

Stakeholders from Garkawa District in Mikang Local Government Area of have unanimously endorsed Mr. Timdi Nkat as their consensus candidate for the State House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also reaffirming their support for the re-election of Governor .

The endorsement followed a stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday, attended by political leaders, traditional rulers, elders, youth and women groups, as well as party faithful drawn from Youm, Tehl and Piapung districts.

Participants described the gathering as a significant step toward strengthening political unity and alignment in Mikang ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking on behalf of the Youm stakeholders forum, former State Auditor, Mr. Ishaku Fanto, said the emergence of Timdi Nkat was the outcome of extensive consultations involving the Mwo Youm of Garkawa, traditional rulers, political stakeholders and community leaders.

According to him, the decision was based on fairness, equity and inclusive representation, stressing that Youm District remains the only major district in Mikang yet to produce a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly.

Fanto maintained that it was only just for the district to be given the opportunity to occupy the seat, while also pledging the continued support of the people for Governor Mutfwang’s administration and re-election bid in 2027.

Former member of the House of Representatives for Mikang/Shendam/Qua’an Pan Federal Constituency, Hon. Innocent Tirsel, said zoning arrangements have continued to promote fairness, peaceful coexistence and balanced political representation in the area.

He noted that after Piapung District occupied the State Assembly seat for 16 years and currently holds the chairmanship position of Mikang Local Government Council, equity demands that power be rotated to another district.

Tirsel urged political parties to sustain the culture of inclusion and fairness to ensure peace and electoral success.

Also speaking, former Chairman of Mikang Local Government and ex-member of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Isa Kungwai, cautioned against actions capable of undermining the unity and political understanding that have existed in the area over the years.

He said Mikang’s political strength lies in mutual respect and collective decision-making, calling on stakeholders to avoid personal interests that could threaten peace and stability.

Former Director-General of PEPSA, Mr. Nuhu Longpes, described the endorsement of Timdi Nkat as a reflection of the collective will of the people and a demonstration of political maturity and inclusiveness.

On behalf of Piapung stakeholders, former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. George Daika, urged political actors to place the unity and future of Mikang above personal ambitions.

Daika commended stakeholders for embracing dialogue and consensus, insisting that sustainable political progress can only be achieved through fairness, inclusion and mutual respect.

He added that the endorsement of Timdi Nkat represents not only the aspirations of the Youm people but the broader interest of Mikang as a whole.

Among those who attended the meeting were Chairman of the Plateau State Civil Service Commission, Prof. Paul Wai; former Transition Committee Chairman, Hon. Magdaline Bagudu; former Executive Secretary, Emmanuel Taukek; Barr. Chasil Drenkat; elected and supervisory councillors, as well as youth and women groups.

In a show of solidarity, stakeholders and supporters later proceeded to the Mikang Local Government Council Secretariat, where they formally presented their resolutions to the Executive Chairman of the council.

The meeting ended with renewed calls for unity, equity and collective commitment toward ensuring a common political direction for Mikang ahead of the 2027 elections, with Timdi Nkat emerging as the consensus choice for the State Assembly seat.

A frontline governorship aspirant in Plateau State under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Jude Dakur, has officially picked the party’s nomination form ahead of the 2027 governorship election, pledging to prioritize grassroots development, security, and economic growth if elected.

Dakur obtained the nomination form on Tuesday, May 13, 2026, signaling his formal entry into the race and expressing confidence in securing the party’s ticket during the forthcoming primaries.

Speaking shortly after obtaining the form, the governorship hopeful said his ambition is driven by a desire to reposition Plateau State for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

He assured supporters that his administration would focus on improving the welfare of citizens and ensuring equitable distribution of resources across the state.

According to Dakur, Plateau State possesses enormous mineral and agricultural potential that must be properly harnessed to drive economic prosperity, particularly in rural communities.

He described mining and agriculture as key pillars of the state’s economy, stressing that strategic investment in the sectors would create jobs and boost internally generated revenue.

On mining activities, Dakur stated that rather than imposing outright restrictions, his administration would create a safe and conducive environment for both artisanal and professional miners to operate effectively.

He added that proper regulation, enforcement of safety standards, and support for miners would help curb illegal mining activities and address related security challenges.

Addressing insecurity in Plateau State, Dakur pledged to adopt a multi-dimensional strategy that would involve stronger collaboration with security agencies, improved intelligence gathering, and support for community-based security initiatives.

He also promised to tackle unemployment and poverty through targeted youth empowerment programmes, noting that engaging young people productively remains vital to achieving lasting peace and development in the state.