Plateau State has taken a decisive step toward overhauling its internal revenue generation system by hosting a historic two-day Tax Summit focused on property and land administration. The engagement, which concluded on Friday, August 22, 2025, brought together top government officials, legal experts, technocrats, development partners, and community leaders to address long-standing challenges in harnessing domestic resources.
Themed “Unlocking Domestic Resources: Strengthening the Administration of Property and Land-Related Taxes in Plateau State,” the summit underscored the importance of land as a critical driver of internally generated revenue (IGR).
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, represented by the Secretary to the Government, Arch. Samuel N. Jatau, emphasized that the summit was not merely about taxation but about redefining governance and strengthening the social contract between government and citizens.
“Land is one of our greatest assets, yet it remains underutilized in driving development. What we are doing with this summit is to set a new tone—that Plateau must look inward, harness its resources, and build a transparent system of taxation that benefits every citizen. We cannot continue to rely solely on federal allocations. Our people deserve clean roads, running water, better schools, and hospitals, and these things require funding. Property and land taxes are not punishments; they are contributions from all of us toward building a state we are proud to call home,” the governor remarked.
He further pledged his administration’s commitment to reforms that will harmonize land administration, expand the tax net, and ensure fairness in enforcement. “We are determined to create a system that is fair, predictable, and transparent. A Plateau where citizens willingly comply because they trust that their taxes are being used wisely—that is the Plateau Project,” he concluded.
Shocking statistics presented at the summit revealed the scale of underperformance in property taxation. Despite NASA surveys identifying over one million buildings across Plateau State, only about 14,000 properties are currently captured in the tax net—representing just 1.4 percent of the state’s total building stock.
Dr. Jim Pam Wayas, Executive Chairman of the Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS), likened the revenue gap to a medical emergency. “Revenue is to government what blood is to the human body. Without blood, the body cannot function. Plateau has been operating with just ‘six pints of blood’ when it could easily have seven or more,” he said.
Nationwide, property taxes account for less than five percent of total government revenue—far below international standards—making reform both urgent and inevitable.
Central to the summit’s deliberations was the challenge of harmonizing statutory land laws with living customary tenure systems. The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Philemon Audu Daffi, emphasized that the problem was not a lack of taxing instruments, but rather the “fragmentation and visibility gap” in Nigeria’s land administration system.
“The central problem is not the absence of laws. Plateau already has a Property and Land Use Charge regime. The challenge lies in bridging the disjuncture between statutory land administration and customary tenure systems,” Daffi explained.
The Plateau Geographic Information Service (PLAGIS), represented by Mr. Sunday Bulus, showcased how digital property mapping and spatial data could transform tax administration. By integrating PLAGIS with PSIRS, property identification, valuation, billing, and collection could be automated—allowing property owners to receive demand notices via SMS or email and pay electronically from their homes.
“Data has become the new oil,” Dr. Wayas emphasized. “The question is: how do we harness it to generate wealth? That is why we are here.”
International perspectives were also shared. Dr. Titilola Akindeinde cited reforms in Sierra Leone, where locally tailored solutions have improved property taxation despite limited resources. Other experts, including Hon. Mustapha Ndajiwo and Tijjani Ahmed, presented research on taxation in Kaduna, Niger, and Ekiti States, with findings attracting interest from the Gates Foundation.
A major highlight of the summit was the inauguration of an Implementation Committee chaired by the Attorney General, with members drawn from ministries, PSIRS, local governments, and technical agencies. A seven-paper action plan was adopted, covering: 1. Harmonization of land tenure systems. 2. Capacity building for local governments. 3. Data-driven revenue forecasting. 4. Technology integration across agencies. 5. Community awareness and public education. 6. Objective property valuation reforms. 7. Updates to legal and regulatory frameworks.
Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Town Planning, Hon. Peter Nyam Gei, stressed that the reforms aim to eliminate duplication and harassment. “We want to make revenue generation a one-stop shop. Once you are given a demand notice and you make your payment, that’s it—you are done,” he said.
The second day shifted focus to the revenue performance of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) under the theme “Appraising the Revenue Performance of MDAs and the Way Forward.” Governor Mutfwang was represented by Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Jatau Davou Gyang.
A review of five years’ data showed chronic underperformance between 2020 and 2022, followed by a breakthrough in 2023 when Plateau achieved 102 percent of its budget and IGR rose to 34 percent. Performance climbed to 62 percent in 2024. However, mid-year 2025 data revealed that only 13.4 percent of MDAs had met at least half their revenue targets, while 63.4 percent performed below 25 percent, and 17.1 percent recorded no collection at all.
High performers included the Ministry of Information & Communication (1,243.76%), Ministry of Justice (729.43%), Jos Main Market Authority (428.96%), and Plateau State Scholarship Board (125%). Underperformers included the Ministries of Agriculture, Science and Technology, ICT Development Agency, and Health.
Recommendations included setting realistic targets, deepening automation, diversifying revenue sources (including land taxes and tourism), quarterly monitoring, performance contracts for MDA heads, and public recognition for high performers.
The summit concluded with optimism and determination. “Success means building a fair, predictable, and transparent system where citizens comply, government enforces, and ultimately everyone sees the results in better roads, water, security, and public services,” Dr. Wayas affirmed.
As federal allocations continue to decline, Plateau’s tax reform initiative may serve as a model for other states. By harmonizing land laws, integrating technology, and holding agencies accountable, the state is laying the foundation for sustainable governance and fiscal independence.
“This is not a talk-shop. We are moving beyond rhetoric to action,” one participant noted. With the Plateau Project now firmly underway, fair taxation is set to meet robust governance, unlocking domestic resources for the benefit of all citizens.
Youths across all districts that made up the six local governments of Plateau North Senatorial Zone have called on the former member, representing Jos South/Jos East federal constituency at the Federal House of Representatives Abuja, Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos, to run for the seat of Senator of Plateau North Senatorial District. The youths in their thousands adopted the former member of the Federal House of Representatives, Abuja, as its sole candidate.
The youths, who took turns to speak according to their local government areas, said in their unanimous statement that Hon. Bagos’s track record as a member representing the Jos South and Jos East federal constituency in the House of Representatives has set him high above others. They have outlined Bagos’s interventions in education, youth and women’s development, empowerment, etc., as the core indicators that informed the adoption of Hon. Bagos as their candidate. They said because vision resonates with the aspirations of youths in the Northern Zone.
They assured Hon. Bagos of unwavering support and dedication to the movement. Thus, the youths resolved to go back to the communities and electoral wards to further galvanize support for His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, and the former member.
While responding, Hon. Bagos thanked the youths for the call. He assured them that he would not fail them and charged them to see to it that they elected leaders that deliver the dividends of leadership as the one being exhibited by our leader and governor, His Excellency Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Executive Governor of Plateau State. He encouraged the youth to see that they support His Excellency, the Governor, to continue with his laudable and impactful leadership of providing people of Plateau State with what they need.
Highlights of the events featured a panel discussion on the progress of Plateau North Senatorial District and music performances by different artists.
Dafwam Yakubu Danja Special Adviser Media and Publicity to Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos
Jos, Plateau State – The Plateau Bloggers and Online Media Association (PLABOMA) on Friday, August 22, paid a courtesy visit to the National Orthopedic Hospital, Jos (NOHJos), with a call for stronger collaboration to drive health awareness, effective information dissemination, and narrative control in the state.
The delegation was warmly received by the Chief Medical Director of NOHJos, Prof. Icha Inalegwu Onche, alongside the Director of Administration, Mr. Gideon Nchoka Adamu.
Speaking during the visit, PLABOMA’s Public Relations Officer, Peter Akpah, described the association as Nigeria’s first organized bloggers’ body, stressing its role in credibility and narrative management. “People now look to us for credible news. Even influencers among us seek our validation before posting,” he said. “We have sanitized the blogging space in Plateau. We don’t just add anyone—our members are screened for professionalism.”
In his remarks, PLABOMA Chairman, Mathew Tegha, highlighted the purpose of the visit, noting that it was beyond courtesy but a demonstration of the association’s commitment to building bridges between digital media and critical institutions. “The National Orthopedic Hospital Jos stands as a beacon of hope in specialized healthcare. Our mandate as PLABOMA is to shape narratives, amplify positive stories, and ensure that institutions like yours receive the visibility they deserve,” he said.
Tegha proposed areas of collaboration, including amplifying NOHJos’s success stories, promoting preventive health awareness, safeguarding the hospital’s reputation against misinformation, and strengthening digital community engagement. He later presented a formal partnership proposal to the hospital management.
Responding, Prof. Onche expressed gratitude for the visit, acknowledging the importance of new media in tackling misinformation and projecting institutional achievements. He also shed light on the hospital’s challenges and progress. “Since May, we have had nearly 400 patients in our outpatient department. Recruitment has been tough, but we are determined to deliver specialized orthopedic care. What is holding us back now is the lack of critical equipment from the Federal Ministry of Health, which we are still awaiting,” he said.
The CMD praised the Plateau State Governor for his support to the hospital despite it being a federal project. “The governor has done so much for us—even beyond his mandate. From road works to water supply, he has supported us, knowing that Plateau people will benefit. We remain grateful,” Prof. Onche added.
He emphasized the importance of credible reportage and urged bloggers to help counter misinformation. “If a wrong story goes out, it can damage us. This is why we value you as partners. We must work together to project the truth and strengthen public trust,” he told the delegation.
Also speaking, Mr. Gideon Nchoka Adamu, Director of Administration at NOHJos, thanked PLABOMA for deeming it fit to visit the institution, assuring them of the hospital’s openness to partnership. “Like the MD said, we will consider your proposal. Continue to promote peace, healthy living, and the voice of truth,” he said.
PLABOMA Secretary of the Board of Trustees, Audu Alex, in a closing remark, underscored the far-reaching impact of digital media. “A single post from a reputable platform can circulate within minutes and counter fake news. Our members are bound by professionalism and credibility, and we are always available to support institutions like NOHJos,” he stated.
The visit ended with assurances of mutual collaboration, with both parties agreeing on the need for digital media to strengthen healthcare communication and public trust.
The Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, Hon. John Kyohroh Christopher, has attributed the endorsement of Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for a second term to the Governor’s superlative performance since assuming office in 2023.
Hon. Christopher stated this on Saturday, 23rd August 2025, at the Ornate Pavilion during a gathering of stakeholders, officials of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), top government functionaries, supporters, and other well-wishers who converged to formally endorse the Governor’s re-election bid in 2027.
Moving the motion for the endorsement, Hon. Christopher said Jos North has experienced significant transformation under the Mutfwang-led administration, earning the Governor admiration and acceptability across all wards in the LGA and beyond. The motion was seconded by Hajiya Jamila Gwandu, drawing overwhelming support from the stakeholders present.
The Council Chairman affirmed that his administration has fully keyed into the “Time is Now” agenda of the present administration and called on citizens to continue to pray for its success. Reeling out projects executed under his watch and outlining his vision for Jos North, Hon. Christopher stressed that citizens of the area are determined to reward the Governor’s performance with greater electoral support in 2027.
In his welcome remarks, PDP Chairman of Jos North, Hon. Elijah Azi, commended party stakeholders, supporters, and residents for their consistent loyalty. He lauded Governor Mutfwang’s strides in infrastructure and governance, assuring that the people of Jos North will remain steadfast in ensuring his return for a second term.
Also speaking, Deputy Chairman of Jos North Council, Hon. Sani Kabiru Garkuwa, described the solidarity walk and endorsement as a demonstration of unity, hope, and unflinching loyalty to the Mutfwang administration, which continues to enjoy widespread acceptance.
Goodwill messages were delivered by former House of Representatives member for Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency, Hon. Aminu Zang; Adviser to the Governor, Da Hon. Joseph Danladi; Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Barr. Peter Nyam Gai; Hon. Sunday Abdu the Executive Secretary Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Elder Sunday Gini, Hajiya Jamila Gwandu; and former Senate Minority Leader, Sen. Simon Mwadkwon. They all commended the people of Jos North for recognizing the Governor’s achievements, which they described as impactful and far-reaching.
They further urged citizens to remain united, participate actively in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), and redouble their commitment toward ensuring Governor Mutfwang’s resounding victory in 2027. They pointed out that the current administration has made greater strides since assuming power than the previous administration did throughout its eight-year tenure.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Executive Chairman of Jos South LGA, Hon. Silas Patrick Dung; Commissioner for Water and Energy, Hon. Bashir Lawandi Datti; Hon. Ishaya Gyang Secretary Jos North Local Government Council, former Plateau State House of Assembly Member, Hon. Surv. Esther Simi Dusu; Chairman of the Muslim Welfare Board, Alh. Aminu Abdullahi; former Jos North-West Constituency lawmakers, Hon. Yakubu Choji and Hon. Danjuma Azi; leaders and members of the Jos North Legislative Arm; top government appointees at local and state levels; elders, women, youths, support groups, and other party loyalists.
A notable highlight of the Event was the solidarity walk from Polo Roundabout to Ornate Pavilion Jos, venue of the event to garner public support for Governor Mutfwang.
It was indeed an atmosphere of rare jubilation and excitement as the Executive Chairman of Mikang Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Benard Soepding Alkali, presented 5 official brand-new cars to senior political appointees of the council, 30 motorcycles, as well as 1,100 bags of maize and 700 bags of millet to the constituents.
Presenting the keys, the council chairman said the donations were part of his administration’s commitment to enhance service delivery to the grassroots.
In his efforts to boost operational efficiency of security in the locality, Dr. Benard also donated 30 brand-new Yamaha motorcycles to men of the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, and the Vigilante group.
The council boss also flagged off the distribution of 1,100 bags of maize and 700 bags of millet to vulnerable members of society, with the view of supporting families during this difficult season.
Speaking during the flag-off, the Plateau State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy, Hon. Barr Ephraim Usman, expressed satisfaction with the progress of work he saw in the area, noting that the chairman is among the first 3 outstanding out of 17 in the state, especially with the meager resources coming in.
The commissioner, while urging the people to keep supporting the council chairman for more dividends of democracy, especially in his future political careers, assured the council chairman of his ministry’s unwavering support.
Also speaking, the President of Mikang Traditional Council commended the council for its giant developmental strides so far, noting that he has the support of the traditional council.
On her part, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Caroline Danfur Panlang, applauded the initiative, which, according to her, is timely and will be impactful, especially to vulnerable members of society.
Delivering a goodwill message earlier, the People’s Democratic Chairman of Mikang, Hon. Dadi Nansel, also appreciated the efforts of the council chairman for being purposeful in the execution of projects and adherence to the plight of Mikang people.
The epoch event was attended by former council chairmen, Hon. Daniel Kungmi and Hon. Isa Kongwai, all District Heads, councillors, supervisory councillors, other appointees, and other guests.
Nkat Joseph Lakai Head of Media and Publicity to the Executive Chairman, Mikang Local Government Council. August 22, 2025.
Jos, Plateau State – August 19, 2025: The Safe House for Justice and Human Empowerment Centre has sounded a strong alarm over the worsening humanitarian situation in Plateau State, declaring that the crisis has been dangerously neglected despite mounting casualties and displacement.
Speaking at a press briefing to mark World Humanitarian Day 2025 in Jos, the Centre’s Executive and Campaign Director, Barr. Edith Mankiling Gumut, said Plateau has become the epicenter of “a protracted humanitarian catastrophe” marked by mass killings, forced displacement, and the exploitation of women and children.
“We are not here to commemorate, but to cry out,” Gumut declared. “Plateau’s suffering must not remain hidden. The world must act before this crisis swallows what is left of our humanity.”
According to the Centre, 64 communities across Plateau have been displaced, creating ghost towns and leaving families without shelter, food, or safety. The situation has forced many to seek refuge in churches, schools, and makeshift camps, where basic necessities are scarce. Women and children, who make up the majority of the displaced, face extreme risks, including sexual exploitation, gender-based violence, and child trafficking.
A particularly grim report highlighted children being trafficked to other states and forced into domestic labor, with some women and girls resorting to “sex for survival.” The Ministry of Women Affairs recently rescued over 300 trafficked children from Bassa Local Government, underscoring the scale of exploitation.
The organization cited recent attacks in Bindi, Bassa, Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu, where villages were razed, dozens killed, and thousands uprooted. In July 2025 alone, at least 27 people were buried in mass graves in Bindi, while 24,681 persons were displaced in a single wave of attacks. Humanitarian monitors also reported a 19% increase in displaced persons since late 2023, bringing the total to over 1.3 million IDPs in Plateau State.
One grieving mother shared her plight: “I lost my husband to an attack. Now I must choose between feeding my children once a day or sending them to beg. No mother should face such a choice.”
While acknowledging recent interventions—including the ₦1 billion donation by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and support from humanitarian agencies such as UNICEF, WHO, GIZ, NRC, and Search for Common Ground—the Centre stressed that such efforts “are but drops in an ocean of need.” Funding cuts, coupled with climate-related disasters, have worsened the crisis.
The Safe House issued a threefold call to action: 1. To donor agencies and philanthropists: Support must go beyond emergency aid and focus on long-term peacebuilding, trauma healing, and livelihood restoration. 2. To government authorities: Security forces must be deployed proactively, not reactively. A comprehensive strategy involving intelligence gathering, rapid response, and community policing is urgently needed. 3. To individuals: Citizens are urged not to look away. “Your donations, no matter how small, can be a lifeline,” Gumut appealed.
Concluding, the Centre warned that Plateau risks becoming a “forgotten crisis” if urgent and sustained interventions are not implemented.
“The humanitarian crisis in Plateau is not just a statistic. It gnaws at the very soul of our people,” Gumut said. “We call on Nigerians, policymakers, and the global community—stand with Plateau, and let humanity prevail.”
For media inquiries, contact: Nennyinka Biska, Communications and Media Manager Safe House for Justice and Human Empowerment Centre Tel: 08066647731
Jos is set to come alive on Friday, 22nd August, as award-winning rapper and renowned Plateau son, Ice Prince Zamani, will be performing live at the Starters Picnic.
The highly anticipated event, presented by Super Cool Cat, will also feature top music producer Chopstix, promising an unforgettable evening of vibes, culture, and music.
The picnic will take place at the scenic Lamingo Dam Bridge, with festivities kicking off at 4PM sharp. Organizers say the event will celebrate not only music but also the rich cultural heritage of Plateau State.
The Plateau State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, in partnership with @OFF_PLATEAUTOUR, is powering the event as part of its drive to showcase Jos as a hub for entertainment and tourism.
With Ice Prince returning to his roots for this special performance, residents and visitors are encouraged to come out in numbers for an electrifying experience.
Dr. Ibrahim Yakub Sime’s Well-Life Foundation launches a targeted program to break financial barriers preventing women from accessing life-changing fertility treatments
The Well-Life Foundation, under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Ibrahim Yakub Sime, has launched the Motherhood Rescue Mission—a bold intervention program addressing one of Nigeria’s most overlooked healthcare crises.
The Crisis
According to WHO data, 1 in 6 people globally face infertility challenges. In Nigeria, the problem is severe: Lagos clinics report that infertility cases represent 26.8% of all gynaecological presentations. Research confirms infertility as a primary reproductive health concern for Nigerian women, causing psychological distress, relationship conflicts, and dangerous health-seeking behaviors.
The cruel reality: while medical solutions exist, financial barriers make them inaccessible. Diagnostic hysteroscopy procedures that can correct uterine abnormalities cost ₦350,000-₦500,000—representing eight months’ salary for women earning below ₦100,000 monthly.
Target Group
The mission specifically targets women aged 20-45 who have been medically cleared for procedures but earn less than ₦100,000 monthly. These are women with confirmed treatable conditions, existing treatment plans, and medical hope—trapped only by economics.
Working with partners like Fertility Support Group Africa, the foundation identifies candidates through rigorous medical vetting within a critical 60-day clearance window.
The Solution
Dr. Sime’s track record with the Well life Hospital provides diagnostic hysteroscopy procedures, which specialists report have 94% success rates in identifying treatable fertility issues. When combined with subsequent treatments, success rates reach 80-85% for women under 40.
“Many capable women are trapped by economics, not biology,” notes Dr. Sarah Adebayo, a leading Abuja fertility specialist. The Motherhood Rescue Mission eliminates this economic barrier entirely.
The initial phase targets a wide range of beneficiaries in Abuja and environs through a transparent, results-driven model with progress tracking and outcome reporting.
Breaking the Silence:
This isn’t charity—it’s intervention. The foundation transforms medical possibility into reality for women whose dreams of motherhood hang in the balance. Every procedure funded represents a potential family, a broken cycle of childlessness, and hope restored.
Contact Information:
Organizations and individuals who would like to partner with us or require more information about the Motherhood Rescue Mission can contact:
Well-Life Foundation Address: No 12 Atbara Street, Wuse, Abuja Executive Director: Dr. Ibrahim Yakub Sime
The Motherhood Rescue Mission represents urgent, measurable action on Nigeria’s fertility crisis—where every intervention could mean the difference between a dream deferred and a family born.
The 3 Division Nigerian Army has officially declared open the 2025 Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition, a key annual training exercise aimed at strengthening operational capacity, teamwork, and professionalism among its formations. The ceremony, held at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, was well attended by paramilitary agencies, government representatives, and traditional rulers, reflecting the broad support for the Nigerian Army’s training initiatives.
Delivering the opening address, Major General Oyinlola described the competition as a milestone in the Nigerian Army’s drive toward combat readiness and operational excellence. He stressed that the event goes beyond physical endurance, serving instead as a structured training cycle to sharpen tactical proficiency, leadership, and adaptability in the face of evolving security challenges.
The GOC commended the organizers, commanders, and participating brigades for their enthusiasm and commitment, while emphasizing the importance of safety and discipline. He charged participants to compete with integrity, uphold the Army’s core values of loyalty, courage, and selfless service, and take the opportunity to learn and grow as professionals.
In his welcome remarks, Brigadier General Adiyu Aminu, Commander 3 Division Garrison, expressed appreciation to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation Safe Haven, Major General E.F. Oyinlola, as well as distinguished guests, royal fathers, and security agencies present. He emphasized that training remains a cardinal pillar of the Division, noting that the competition is designed to further equip officers with the competence, agility, and joint operational effectiveness required to address insecurity. He commended Army leadership for prioritizing training and urged participants to uphold esprit de corps, professionalism, and discipline throughout the exercise.
The ceremony also featured an oath-taking session by commanders and participants from each brigade, signifying commitment to fair play and professionalism.
With the declaration of the competition open, brigades immediately began their drills and tactical exercises, setting the tone for days of rigorous and healthy rivalry. The event is expected to further enhance the Nigerian Army’s preparedness for joint operations and its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.
