Category: News

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Plateau Governor Launches Mutfwang Legacy Scholarship, Sends Off 200 Students to India

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Tuesday officially launched the Mutfwang Legacy Scholarship Scheme and bid farewell to 200 Plateau indigenes selected for overseas studies in India. The ceremony was held at the National Youth Centre, behind Shere Hills, Gwafan, Jos, marked a significant step in the state government’s drive to strengthen human capital development and youth empowerment.

The beneficiaries will study Medical Sciences, Engineering, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Sanskaran University, New Delhi. The initiative underscores Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to providing quality education, global exposure, and sustainable opportunities for Plateau youths, while reinforcing his administration’s vision of grooming a new generation of professionals to drive socio-economic growth and development across the state.

In his keynote address, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang encouraged the students to see the scholarship as a rare opportunity and a trust placed in them by the people of Plateau State. He urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to excellence throughout their studies in India.

The Governor reminded the beneficiaries that they are ambassadors of Plateau State and Nigeria, calling on them to uphold good conduct, integrity, and respect for the laws and culture of their host country at all times.

He further advised the students to take full advantage of the exposure, knowledge, and skills they will gain in the fields of Medical Sciences, Engineering, and Information and Communication Technology, noting that the world is increasingly driven by innovation and technology.

Governor Mutfwang concluded by charging the students to return home after their studies to contribute meaningfully to the development of Plateau State, assuring them of his administration’s continued support and belief in their ability to make a positive difference.

The Governor ended the ceremony by giving passports and flight tickets to the students, showing that everything was ready for their journey to India and that the Plateau State Government fully supports them.

Earlier, the Plateau State Commissioner for Higher Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Kachollom Pyam Gang, described the event as historic, noting that it was rare for a governor to sponsor 200 students abroad at once. She thanked Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his vision and sacrifice, saying the initiative would be remembered in the state’s history.

She congratulated the students on gaining admission into a reputable university in India, saying their selection showed hard work, discipline, and excellence. She added that the Ministry of Higher Education was proud of them and confident they would excel in their various courses.

Dr. Gang advised the students to remain focused, respect the laws of their host country, and uphold the Plateau spirit wherever they go. She encouraged them to return home with knowledge and skills to contribute to the development of Plateau State.

During the Farewell Ceremony, His Royal Majesty, the Ujah of Anaguta, Johnson Jauro Magaji, praised Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his love for Plateau State and described the scholarship as historic. He prayed for the students, urged them to represent Plateau well, promote unity, and return home with knowledge and skills to make the state proud.

Mrs. Linda Fom, Controller of the Plateau State Command of the Nigerian Immigration Service, urged the students to obey immigration rules, avoid drugs and all illegal activities, and use their study visas strictly for education. She reminded them to respect the sacrifices made by the Governor and their parents and return home safely to make Plateau State proud.

Speaking for the parents, Mrs. Fabong Hope Adanchin thanked Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for the scholarship, praising his leadership for giving children from all backgrounds, including orphans and less privileged families, the chance for quality education, and prayed for God’s blessings and guidance for him.

Beneficiary Jelbak Plangnan Wilfred, who will study Radiography and Imaging Technology at Sanskaram University, India, expressed excitement and gratitude to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for the scholarship, thanking him for the life-changing opportunity and praying for God’s continued blessings upon him.

Beneficiary Chumle Nanshep James, who will study Optometry, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for the scholarship, saying it was a life-changing opportunity that lifted a great burden from his parents and brought joy to his family.

The Acting Education Secretary, Mrs. Nankus A. Ngwalang, thanked Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for sending 200 students to Sanskaram University and appreciated the parents, leaders, and all stakeholders for their support, praying for God’s blessings and guidance for everyone.

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Penalties Decide Thriller as Timber Stars FC Win Greater Together Peace Football Title

The second edition of the Greater Together Peace and Unity Football Competition came to a thrilling conclusion on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the Mangu Mini Stadium, following a keenly contested final between Spiders FC and Timber Stars FC.

After regulation time ended in a goalless draw, Timber Stars FC emerged champions, defeating Spiders FC 4–3 on penalties to clinch the title and the first-place prize of ₦1 million. Spiders FC finished as runners-up and received ₦700,000, while Na’atika Lynx FC secured third place with a cash prize of ₦500,000. Individual awards were also presented for Outstanding Player of the Tournament, Best Goalkeeper, Highest Goal Scorer, Best Behaved Team, among others.

The tournament, which featured 24 teams drawn from the 20 wards of Mangu Local Government Area, attracted thousands of spectators to the final and recorded a peaceful and incident-free competition throughout its duration.

The competition was jointly organized by Hon. Nuhu Yakwen, Deputy Chairman of Mangu LGA; Hon. Engr. Mangna Yusuf Wamyil of the Jos Main Market Authority; Nurse Ndak Zuhumnan, Programme Manager, Plateau State Malaria Elimination Programme; Hon. Sam Shwarta, Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Plateau State; and entrepreneur Hon. Wilson Simon.

Speaking at the event, the Plateau State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Musa Ibrahim Ashoms, described the tournament as a brilliant initiative that aligns with the state government’s vision for youth development and social cohesion. He noted that over 700 youths participated in a healthy and competitive environment, emphasizing that such initiatives promote unity, peace, and collaboration beyond government efforts.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Ephraim Usman, said the tournament demonstrated the return of peace to Mangu LGA, which had previously experienced security challenges. He highlighted the unifying power of football, noting the participation of youths from different religious, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds, and stressed the potential of such platforms to discover talents that could represent Plateau State and Nigeria at higher levels.

Nurse Ndak Zuhumnan, also known as Kizito, explained that the initiative was inspired by the vision of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang to engage and positively channel youth energy. He noted that the competition not only United communities but also helped steer youths away from social vices, as no negative incidents were recorded throughout the tournament.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Drug and Medical Commodities Management Agency, Pharm. Kim Jerry Bot, commended the organizers, describing the tournament as a noble initiative capable of driving peace, unity, and development in line with the governor’s people-oriented agenda. Also speaking, the General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), Arch. Hart Bankat, emphasized the importance of keeping youths gainfully engaged during festive periods and described sports as a key avenue for talent discovery.

Earlier, Hon. Mangna Yusuf Wamyil said the essence of the tournament was to foster peace and unity in Mangu LGA, which has experienced sectarian and religious crises in the past. He expressed satisfaction with the success of the second edition and noted that scouts and top government officials were present to identify promising talents for future opportunities.

The final match and award ceremony were witnessed by several dignitaries, government officials, community leaders, and football enthusiasts, as the packed Mangu Mini Stadium reflected renewed unity and enthusiasm for sports in the area.

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Jos Family Christmas Festival Showcases Youth Talent, Culture, and Tourism Development

The Jos Family Christmas Festival 3.0 is currently bringing excitement, culture, and family-friendly entertainment to Jos as it continues at the Christmas Village, Airforce Base Roundabout, Jonah Jang Way. The 10-day festival officially commenced on December 21 and will run through December 31, offering residents and visitors a vibrant mix of cultural showcases, entertainment, and educational activities in line with its theme, “Experience the Magic. Discover the Plateau.”

Speaking during the presentation of certificates and gifts to participants of the Primary and Secondary School Essay Competition, the General Manager of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation, Chuwang Pwajok, commended the students for their creativity, intelligence, and impressive understanding of Plateau State’s tourism potential. He described the competition as a strategic platform for nurturing young minds and instilling pride in the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, and core values.

Pwajok emphasized that engaging children through intellectual activities such as essay writing promotes tourism education from an early age, while also encouraging critical thinking and responsible citizenship. He applauded teachers and parents for their guidance and dedication, and commended the organizers of the Jos Family Christmas Festival for sustaining an initiative that successfully blends learning with celebration.

Beyond the essay competition, the event also featured Little Miss Tourism, a lively DJ and Dance Competition, and an exciting Raffle Draw, adding colour and entertainment to the children’s fun fair segment of the festival.

The Jos Family Christmas Festival 3.0 continues to serve as a platform for cultural promotion, youth development, and family bonding, reinforcing Plateau State’s commitment to tourism growth and community engagement throughout the festive season.

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PLASIEC Chairman Felicitates Nigerians at Christmas, Urges Unity and Collective Responsibility

The Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Plangji Daniel Cishak, has extended warm Christmas greetings to the people of Plateau State and Nigerians nationwide, calling on citizens to uphold the values of love, faith, hope, and unity associated with the season.

Cishak noted that the celebration comes amid ongoing security challenges across the country, expressing sympathy with affected families and communities. While commending the Federal and State Governments and security agencies for their efforts, he reiterated support for the creation of state police and stronger collaborative security strategies.

He also praised the Operation Rainbow Security Outfit for recruiting 1,450 additional officers and reaffirmed PLASIEC’s commitment to conducting credible and peaceful local government elections in 2026. The PLASIEC Chairman urged eligible citizens to participate actively in the Continuous Voter Registration exercise resuming in January 2026, stressing the importance of voter participation in deepening democracy.

Cishak appreciated electoral stakeholders for their support and wished Nigerians a peaceful Christmas and a hopeful New Year.

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PEPSA Shuts Down Two Abattoirs in Jos North Over Public Health Risks

The Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has shut down two abattoirs in Jos North Local Government Area over persistent violations of hygiene and sanitation standards, despite repeated engagements with their operators.

The affected facilities—Filin-Ball and Gadan Ganda abattoirs—were closed following a routine inspection exercise by the Agency. The Director-General of PEPSA, Mr. Samuel Dapiya, ordered the immediate suspension of operations after the abattoirs were found to be operating under conditions that pose serious risks to public health and the environment.

According to PEPSA, the inspection revealed that the abattoirs lacked basic infrastructure required for safe and hygienic meat processing. Key deficiencies included the absence of a reliable clean water supply, poor waste disposal and drainage systems, and generally unhygienic operating environments. The Agency also observed that improper waste management practices at the facilities were contributing to the contamination of surface and groundwater in nearby communities.

Of particular concern was the discovery that contaminated water was being used to wash slaughtered animals, a practice that significantly increases health risks to consumers.

PEPSA emphasized that the operation of illegal and substandard abattoirs will not be tolerated under any circumstances, noting that meat processed in such environments poses a serious threat to public health and undermines efforts to protect the environment and ensure public safety.

Following the closures, the Agency disclosed plans to convene another meeting with the leadership of the affected abattoirs to discuss corrective measures. These may include relocating their operations to the Jos Main Abattoir, where adequate infrastructure, proper sanitary facilities, and regulatory oversight are available.

The Agency also urged members of the public to support its efforts by ensuring that meat purchased for consumption is sourced only from approved and hygienic abattoirs.

PEPSA reaffirmed its commitment to working with all relevant stakeholders to eliminate unhygienic abattoir practices and to promote a cleaner, safer, and healthier Plateau State.

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Jos Family Christmas Festival Showcases Culture and Fashion at Rep Your Kulture Runway

The Jos Family Christmas Festival 3.0 recorded a vibrant outing as the “Rep Your Kulture | Fashion Runway” event took place with beautiful cultural representations from different ethnic groups, creative writing fashion displays, and a lively runway showcase.

The event featured stunning traditional attires, energetic cultural performances, a children’s fun fair, and numerous side attractions that kept families and visitors entertained throughout the day. The colourful celebration highlighted Plateau State’s rich heritage while creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere for all age groups.

Following the successful cultural runway yesterday, activities at the Christmas Village continue today with an exciting Movie Night, offering families and friends a perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy quality time together in a safe and festive environment.

The Jos Family Christmas Festival 3.0 runs through December 31, delivering daily entertainment and unforgettable festive experiences in Jos.

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FG Declares Kidnappers, Militants As Terrorists, Deploys Forest Guards Nationwide

The Federal Government has designated kidnappers and violent armed groups as terrorists, escalating Nigeria’s response to abductions, attacks on farmers and community violence.

The announcement was made by Information Minister Mohammed Idris at the end-of-the-year press briefing in Abuja on Monday.

This signals a shift from treating mass kidnappings and rural attacks as ordinary crimes to confronting them with full counterterrorism measures.

What Idris Said
Idris said the new designation gives security agencies broader authority to pursue, disrupt and dismantle criminal groups terrorising communities.

“Henceforth, any armed group or individual that kidnaps our children, attacks our farmers, and terrorises our communities is officially classified and will be dealt with as a terrorist,” the minister said.

He added that the policy shift would strengthen intelligence sharing and operational coordination across security and intelligence agencies, enabling faster and more decisive responses.

Highlighting recent progress, Idris disclosed that improved collaboration had already yielded results.

“In 2025, two of the most internationally wanted criminals were captured through the coordination of our security agencies and those in the intelligence community,” he said.

The tougher stance comes amid growing concern over the use of forests and remote rural areas by kidnappers, bandits and insurgent groups as safe havens, particularly in farming and border communities.

According to the minister, the forest guard initiative is intended to close these gaps by combining surveillance, local intelligence and rapid-response capabilities in hard-to-reach areas.

“Trained and equipped forest guards will be deployed to secure our forests and other vulnerable locations,” Idris said, stressing that criminal groups would no longer enjoy ungoverned spaces.

The move builds on earlier efforts to boost inter-agency coordination and strengthen territorial control beyond major cities.

What This Means
By designating kidnappers as terrorists, the government signals zero tolerance for abductions and rural violence while expanding security forces’ powers.

The deployment of forest guards is expected to disrupt criminal supply routes, dismantle camps hidden in forests and reassure farming communities affected by insecurity.

What You Should Know
Nigeria’s kidnap-for-ransom economy has surged, with at least N2.56 billion paid between July 2024 and June 2025 to free abductees.

According to SBM Intelligence’s latest report on the economics of kidnapping, abductors demanded N48 billion in ransoms during the period, but only 5.35% was actually paid.

In total, 4,722 Nigerians were kidnapped in 997 incidents, while 762 people lost their lives in abduction-related violence.

Credit: Nairametrics

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PSIRS Announced Availability of Over 5,000 Unclaimed Driver’s Licences in Plateau

The Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS) has announced the availability of over 5,000 unclaimed and outstanding driver’s licences received from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), calling on affected residents to come forward for immediate collection.

In a public notice issued on Monday, PSIRS disclosed that the backlog of driver’s licences had been officially handed over by the FRSC and are now ready for distribution to applicants who have completed their processing but are yet to receive their licences.

The Service advised all Plateau State residents awaiting their driver’s licences to visit the PSIRS Headquarters located at No. 6 Bank Road, Jos, to collect their documents.

According to the statement, collection will take place from Mondays to Fridays, between 8:00am and 5:00pm, and applicants are expected to present valid means of identification and other relevant documents to facilitate a smooth process.

The announcement was signed by the Head of the Corporate Communications Department, Wulashik Lucius Dafaan, who urged eligible residents to take advantage of the opportunity and avoid further delays.

PSIRS reaffirmed its commitment to efficient service delivery and appealed to the public for cooperation during the collection exercise.

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Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda Named Plateau Man of the Year 2025

Jos, Plateau State – December 20, 2025

COA Media has officially announced Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, as the Plateau Man of the Year 2025.

The award recognises Professor Yilwatda’s exceptional leadership, humanitarian service, and transformative contributions to the socio-economic development of Plateau State. Over the years, he has distinguished himself through people-focused initiatives that have positively impacted communities across the State.

His work spans healthcare delivery, education, youth empowerment, women’s economic inclusion, agriculture, and social welfare. Notable initiatives include free medical outreaches across all three senatorial zones, skills acquisition programmes for youths, agricultural empowerment projects for farmers, and financial support to women and young entrepreneurs. His humanitarian interventions have also extended to victims of insecurity, widows, retired workers, students, and other vulnerable groups, reflecting a leadership approach anchored in compassion and service beyond public office.

Professor Yilwatda emerged as the recipient following a transparent public nomination and selection process conducted between November 19 and December 16, 2025. The process recorded widespread participation, reflecting overwhelming public confidence in his leadership and impact.

Past recipients of the Plateau Man of the Year Award include Ambassador Yahaya Kwande; Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong; Dame Pauline Tallen; Hon. Chris Kwaja, PhD; Hon. Beni B. Lar; Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase; Sir Joseph Ntung Ari; Engr. Chief Dr. Meshach Congo Maichibi; and Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

Notably, the 2025 edition marks the 11th anniversary of the Plateau Man of the Year Awards, reinforcing its reputation as the premier initiative recognising outstanding individuals and institutions driving development, unity, and positive transformation in Plateau State.

The award will be formally presented at a grand ceremony scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the Usiju World Events Centre, Jos, Plateau State.

The Plateau Man of the Year Awards (PMYA) is an annual flagship initiative of COA Media, established to celebrate excellence, innovation, and impactful service across both public and private sectors in Plateau State.

E-Signed

Amb. Cletus Akhimien
Team Lead, Plateau Man of the Year Awards (PMYA)
For: COA Media

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Plateau Intensifies Efforts to Curb Malnutrition, Targets Reduction of 44% Stunting Rate

The Plateau State Government has intensified efforts to end the cycle of chronic malnutrition, which currently affects about 44 percent of children across the state. Authorities have identified prolonged violent conflicts, displacement of farming communities, poor infant and young child feeding practices, and the failure of households to consume available nutritious foods as key factors worsening the situation. These issues were brought to the fore during a press briefing at the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in Jos, organized as part of activities marking the 2025 Nutrition Week.

Addressing journalists, the Director of Nutrition at the Plateau State Primary Health Care Development Board, Tongmor Dabis, emphasized that the fight against chronic malnutrition must begin with maternal health and early childhood nutrition. She stressed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by appropriate complementary feeding, warning that poor nutrition during this critical period leads to irreversible stunting. Dabis disclosed that Governor Caleb Mutfwang has approved funds for the procurement of Small-Quantity Lipid-based Nutrient Supplements (SQ-LNS) and Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) for pregnant and nursing mothers, noting that these interventions are aimed at preventing malnutrition from the womb and addressing the reality that many families sell nutritious produce instead of consuming it.

Earlier in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Yohanna Mangtu, highlighted achievements recorded under The Time Is Now administration, describing the government’s response as deliberate and multi-sectoral. He cited the establishment of Local Government Committees on Food and Nutrition, the review of the State Food and Nutrition Policy (2024–2028), and the launch of the Nutrition 774 Initiative to strengthen grassroots implementation. Mangtu also pointed to the role of the health sector through maternal, newborn, and child health weeks, as well as contributions from other ministries in food safety, sustainable agriculture, MSME food fortification, and school garden revival. He added that partnerships with UNICEF and civil society organizations have expanded community sensitization, WASH promotion, adolescent nutrition education, and household food production, positioning Plateau State for sustained progress in improving nutrition outcomes despite ongoing challenges.