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Plateau State Government To Partner With The French Republic To Boost Education, Agriculture, And Mining

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has expressed a strong desire to collaborate with the French Republic in enhancing educational development, agriculture, and the solid mineral sector to generate employment opportunities for the youth in the state.

Governor Mutfwang made this known on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Her Excellency, Mrs. Emmanuelle Blatmann, the Ambassador of the French Republic to Nigeria, and her delegation to the New Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State.

He extended a warm welcome to the Ambassador and emphasized the state’s commitment to fostering a productive partnership with the French Republic for the benefit of Nigerian citizens residing in Plateau state.

Governor Mutfwang noted with delight, some of the ongoing projects initiated by the French Embassy in Plateau state, particularly in the fields of education, agriculture, and mining. These initiatives, he said are aimed at revitalizing the state and ensuring quality education, food security, and creating employment opportunities.

The Governor acknowledged the global importance of the French language for international transactions and announced plans to accelerate the growth of the Centre of Alliance Française in Jos, which has been serving the community for over two decades, to advance educational development in the state.

He emphasized, “We see potential collaboration opportunities in environmental and scientific fields as well. Rest assured, we are committed to strengthening our relationship with the French Government, and we eagerly anticipate a more robust partnership in the coming months and years.”

He added, “Plateau State boasts significant untapped tourism potential. As the ‘Home of Peace and Tourism,’ we aim to explore all avenues for collaboration. We are fully committed to working with our development partners.”

The Ambassador of the French Republic to Nigeria, Her Excellency, Mrs. Emmanuelle Blatmann, praised Governor Mutfwang for promoting gender diversity in his cabinet and encouraged him to champion innovative ideas that will spur development in the state.

Mrs. Blatmann highlighted ongoing developmental projects in partnership with some educational institutions such as the University of Jos, National Film Institute in Jos, and the National Veterinary and Research Institute (NVIR) in Vom, focusing on agricultural programs, including the provision of animal vaccines and enhancing food security.

She also shared details of an educational program initiated by the Embassy that will benefit five states in Nigeria, including Plateau.
This program, she said, aims to equip select schools with learning materials, including computers, to promote the French language in the country.

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Governor Mutfwang Addresses Plateau State: Progress, Challenges, and Unity

In a profound statewide broadcast, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State shared an insightful update on the state’s progress, the challenges faced, and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Plateau’s citizens. Acknowledging the privilege and honor bestowed upon him as the chosen Governor, he expressed profound gratitude for the trust placed in him to lead the state during these critical times.

Governor Mutfwang began by painting a candid picture of the monumental tasks facing his administration. He highlighted that upon assuming office, they were met with a state in dire need of attention and repair. Despite the state’s abundant human and natural resources, they faced an array of issues, including security challenges, a bloated civil service, salary arrears, a significant debt profile, and an urgent need for the revitalization of Jos metropolis.

However, Governor Mutfwang’s administration was characterized by swift and decisive action. They undertook efforts to restore peace to the state and rectify civil service anomalies, including questionable appointments and placement irregularities. They resolved salary backlogs, clearing payments up to July 2023, with August’s payments imminent. These actions demonstrated a commitment to addressing the pressing concerns of the state’s civil servants.

The Governor also recognized the reduction in daily attacks on the people and expressed his gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for his immediate commitment to addressing security challenges in Plateau State. He lauded the efforts of various security agencies in containing isolated attacks and allowing for the cultivation of land in previously attacked communities.

Governor Mutfwang ‘s administration also prioritized infrastructure improvements, with ongoing road maintenance projects across Jos-Bukuru metropolis and plans for road renewal projects in the dry season. The city of Jos experienced a remarkable transformation, with the removal of refuse heaps, promising a cleaner and more organized urban environment.

In light of the recent developments in the political landscape, the Governor urged citizens to maintain faith in the three arms of government and avoid engaging in divisive rhetoric. He called for calm and restraint, especially among the youth, cautioning against instigation by individuals with unexplained wealth. He stressed the importance of unity, peace, and development while warning against attempts to destabilize the state.

Governor Mutfwang’s concluding message was one of unity and progress. He invited all citizens to join him in the task of building a prosperous Plateau, emphasizing equity, fairness, and justice as guiding principles. His administration aimed to leave a lasting legacy and set high performance standards for future leaders, promising a brighter future for the people of Plateau.

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Minister of Labour Engages NLC over Demands

Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Bako Lalong and the Minister of State Hon. Nkeiruka Onyeajeocha have met with members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC towards finding solutions to pending issues raised by Labour and its threat of total strike.

At the meeting, the Minister of Labour Simon Bako Lalong welcomed the team from the NLC led by its President Joe Ajaero and said the Government has noted the genuine concerns raised by the Labour which are receiving attention.

He said the aim of the meeting is to closely examine the demands and look at the issues that can be resolved immediately, those that will require time and others which need further discussions.

He said “we must also recognise the economic realities that confront us. As we address the concerns of the workforce, we must be mindful of striking a balance that promotes economic growth and secures sustainable progress for our nation. Today I call on you to join hands in an open-minded and constructive dialogue, enabling us to bridge any gaps that may exist between the interests of workers and the ultimate goal of driving economic advancement”.

He expressed confidence that the meeting will produce resolutions that will propel the labour sector forward and generate harmonious collaboration between the Government and NLC which will facilitate environment where the workforce thrives.

NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero said the labour has met with the government severally and put its demands on the table which have not been addressed.

He maintained that the workers have continued to experience hardships due to removal of subsidy but yet, there is no palliatives, wage award, review of minimum wage.

Ajaero also lamented that the NURTW Headquarters was breached by imposters who are trying to take over the leadership of the union illegally. He said the police have closed the Secretariat and also arrested its members who are still in detention. He demanded for their immediate release.

The meeting thereafter went into closed a door session.

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DR. MOHAMMED DAHIRU: A SILENT ACHIEVER, A SERIAL WINNER AND A GLIMPSE OF HOPE

Dr. Mohammed Dahiru is an individual that I had the rare privilege of meeting in person and having a little chat with sometimes last year. He was so calm and gentle that I couldn’t believe that a personality like him would be this easy going. I was surprised by his kind of person because he is indeed an extraordinary man whom I have been
following closely.

I strongly believe it is necessary to let Nigerians know about this Man, who has and is still playing a huge role in shaping the future of our country and restoring our economical prowess in Africa and the world. He is a man of integrity, a technocrat and a leader who does not give anyone room for long and unnecessary guesses as his actions and committed leadership would provide evidence too sharp to be blurred by any cynicism.


MOHAMMED DAHIRU, PhD born 9th August 1973 in Plateau State is
an accomplished finance and international trade expert who served at several strategic management positions in the banking sector.


A Visionary Business Leader and accomplished Senior Management
Professional, with over 2 decades of successful multifaceted experience in the financial services and the public-private partnership sectors.


He sits on the boards of several companies within and outside Nigeria
and serves as consultant to several multinational companies operating
in Nigeria. He is a Fellow, Chartered Institute of Loans and Risk Management in
Nigeria, and also Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud
Examiners of Nigeria


Dr. Dahiru’s competency and wisdom is why the Director General of Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council, Former governor of Plateau State and current Minister Labour and employment, Mr Simon Lalong quickly brought him on board as part of his crucial cabinet to execute the daunting task of ensuring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerges
in the Presidential election.

Dr. Dahiru of course set things rolling by
initiating the Northern Business Group as the Convener to Promote
the Tinubu/Shettima candidacy. The group recorded huge success in promoting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Dr. Dahiru was once again called upon to be among the team who drafted the final copy of the renewed hope action plan of Bola Ahmed Tinubu which is the current plan embarked on by the Presidency to restore our country back to its glory days.


In his struggles for the betterment of this nation even before the elections, Patriotic and passionate about National Pride Dr Muhammed currently holds the positions of Chairman, Presidential Implementation Committee on Transfer of Technology, and Chairman, Nigeria- Czech Republic Trade and Investment Council.


All these are developments Dr. Dahiru single handedly championed just to bring the much desired development our country requires. Dr. Dahiru is a man that likes his privacy and doesn’t like speaking much
about his capability, but I apologize to him for showcasing this to Nigerians. I believe our country is currently at a critical time that we Nigerians must identify credible Nigerians and rally behind them, push
them forward and ensure that their wisdom is shared and put into practice to salvage our country.

This is exactly what I am doing by
bringing Dr. Mohammed Dahiru to the face of Nigerians so that we as Nigerians will see the need why he must not remain in the sideline but be a key player as it is paramount to the development of this country and the success of this administration. Dr. Mahamdu Dahiru, Nigerians need you, your country needs you and I hope you will accept a more pivotal role in this administration

when called upon as only with people like you, that our journey towards the Nigeria of our dreams is possible.

Written by, Abubakar Suleiman Ogah

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Promoting Civil Space and Human Rights: Community Gathering Held in Jos, Plateau State

The News: The Center For Peace Education And Community Development, Jalingo in collaboration with The Space For Change, Lagos organised a one-day stakeholders town hall meeting on Thursday 14th September 2023, at Lemonde Hotels, Tundun Wada, Jos Plateau State, with the theme ‘civil space and human rights.’

Why It Matters: According to Joseph Gimba, the chief executive officer of the Center For Peace And Community Development, The civil space is a physical or digital space, where people come together to exercise their human rights. However, civil space has been shrinking as a result of laws made by the government, which puts the government and security operatives in a privileged position to trample on individual human rights, and not allow them to enjoy their civil rights.

Traditional rulers at the meeting.

Speaking on the issue, Mr Gimba, says:

“All stakeholders have agreed that one way or another, they abuse the rights of their fellow humans unknowingly and unknowingly, through their actions and inactions. As such we I invited to the meeting stakeholders such as

lawyers, magistrates, traditional institutions, vigilantes, the hunters association, and neighbourhood watch security team, to enable them to understand the dynamics of the civil space, and human rights abuses to ensure peace in the community.”

The Neighbourhood watch security team.

What Now: James Sanni Waziri of Nabor in Jos-North local government area of Plateau State, who was in attendance, appreciated Space For Change for coming to educate them on human rights abuses saying:

” We need more of these kinds of workshops because we need security organisations like the Police, the Secret Security Service (SSS) and other sister organisations to come and join us, so that together with the general society, we can be aware of certain things that we should do and not do.

Stakeholders:

We are calling on the government to dispense good governance to the society, this will reduce the level to which these abuses occur and how human rights are trampled upon.

We also ask that the government should spell out in clear terms the role of the traditional rulers and other stakeholders in the society who assist the law enforcement agencies in carrying out their duties.”

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Governor Caleb Mutfwang appoints 136 aides

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has named 136 individuals as his Special Assistants, as revealed in a statement released on Friday night by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere.

These appointees are distributed throughout the 17 Local Government Areas within the state, with each area having eight allocations. While their specific roles have not been specified, the statement assured that their positions and responsibilities would be communicated to them through their respective Local Government Councils.

The statement went on to explain, “The individuals listed below, who constitute the initial batch of appointees, will promptly commence their duties and obligations.”

Among the appointees were notable individuals like Hon. Dalyop Pin, Miss Nyam Jemima, Miss Patience Ufwalal, Dachomo Sunday, Shim Malau, Dabot Dung, Mr. Pam Nuhu, Mr. Samson Chuwang, Aaron Jamo, Gimbia Tahu, Yahaya Ibrahim, Atoyi Daniel, Katuk Ahamdu, Ughili Agaji, Ichi David, and Sunday Wada, among others.

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PMAN to Partner with Plateau Government to Boost State Revenue and Entertainment Industry

In a significant move towards enhancing the state’s revenue generation and fostering growth in the entertainment sector, the Plateau State Chapter of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) embarked on a collaborative journey with the Plateau State Government. This promising partnership was initiated during a courtesy visit to the state’s leadership, facilitated by the Director-General of Research and Planning, Hon. Samuel Godongs, on Thursday, September 14th.

Amb. Comr. Humphrey, the Governor of PMAN Plateau State Chapter, articulated the organization’s fervent desire to collaborate with the State Government to drive revenue while shedding light on the untapped potential of the creative industry within the Plateau region. He expressed his appreciation for the government’s commendable developmental efforts and urged them to channel more focus and resources into nurturing the local entertainment sector.

Amb. Comr. Humphrey emphasized, “We appreciate the harmonious relationship between the new government and PMAN/the entertainment industry in Plateau. We encourage you to explore avenues for promoting Jos-based artists beyond the state’s borders. We aspire to collaborate with record labels to organize artist scouting, similar to football scouting for players, aiming to export talent and, in turn, contribute to the state’s revenue through taxation.”

During their visit, PMAN Plateau State Chapter also unveiled their plans to establish a Music House within the state. This facility would serve as a hub for entertainers, offering them a conducive environment for creativity and innovation. The delegation requested the allocation of land to materialize this vision.

In response, Hon. Samuel Godongs, the Director-General of Research and Planning, expressed his appreciation for PMAN’s timely visit and acknowledged their well-defined plans for revenue generation through collaboration with the government. He recognized the potential for such a partnership to elevate Plateau State, making it even more appealing to both entertainers and investors.

Hon. Samuel Godongs encouraged PMAN to continue presenting valuable ideas that would mutually benefit the entertainment industry and the government, ultimately contributing to the overall growth and prosperity of Plateau State. This collaboration signifies a promising step forward in harnessing the creative potential and economic opportunities that lie within the state’s vibrant entertainment sector.

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Police reveal why corpse of Mohbad will be exhumed for autopsy

Lagos State Police Command has said the corpse of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, would be exhumed for autopsy to aid investigation into the cause of his death if it is necessary.

Mohbad, 27, died on Tuesday, however, the cause of his death has been; a subject of controversy since the tragic incident.

Speaking during an Instagram live session with media personality, Ifedayo Olarinde, popularly known as Daddy Freeze, on Thursday night, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the police would probe to find the cause of Mohbad’s death.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Thursday, said that the police would carry out a diligent investigation into the cause of Mohbad’s death.

Mohbad

Referencing the Force PRO during his interview, SP Hundeyin said, “The Force PRO issued a statement this evening (Thursday) saying; that investigation will commence and that’s what we’re going to do. If need be, the body will be exhumed. It’s not too late. The body can be exhumed and an autopsy can be; performed.

“The statement also states that people should bring whatever information; they have to the commissioner of police in Lagos State. That’s because we don’t want to do hierarchy anymore. Take it to Force CID, and bring it to Lagos Command. It doesn’t matter. We’re going to harmonize it within ourselves and ensure that justice is; done.”

This followed the emergence of a document, wherein the late singer reported a case of alleged; threat to life, malicious damage, assault, and oppression, among others, against a music promoter, Samson Balogun, aka Sam Larry, and others, in a petition to the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Alagbon, Lagos State.

In the June 27, 2023 petition, Mohbad alleged; that Sam Larry and 15 others all armed, stormed the venue of a video shoot where the deceased and another artiste, Omoniyi Temidayo aka Zlatan Ibile were; working; and threatened to wreak havoc.

Assaulted

He added that they eventually; destroyed equipment worth over N5 million at the scene, and assaulted him (Mohbad) before he narrowly; escaped after sustaining injuries.

The petition read, “I of the above name and address, a law-abiding citizen and a Musician bring to your notice the assault and threat to my life by the above-mentioned persons.

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Mark Zuckerberg Announces Global Launch of WhatsApp Channels

WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, has launched a new feature called “Channels,” aiming to provide a private and secure broadcasting service.

This feature was officially introduced on Wednesday by Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, through a post on his Facebook page.

“Today we are starting to roll out WhatsApp channels globally and adding thousands of new channels that people can follow in WhatsApp. You can find channels in the new ‘Updates’ tab,” he wrote.

In a statement, AT3 Resources, Meta’s agent said WhatsApp channels will be launched in over 150 countries.

The agency said WhatsApp’s main focus is to provide a “private and secure broadcasting service”.

“We are excited to launch WhatsApp Channels to over 150 countries,” the statement reads.

“Our goal is to build the most private broadcast service available. Channels are separate from your chats, and who you choose to follow is not visible to other followers. We also protect the personal information of both admins and followers.”

WhatsApp also announced a number of new features for ‘Channels’, including an enhanced directory that makes it easier to find ‘Channels’ to follow, reactions to updates with emojis, the ability for admins to edit updates for up to 30 days and forward updates feature.

In recent times, WhatsApp has been actively rolling out new features to enhance user experiences and keep up with evolving communication trends.

On August 8, the social network introduced a screen-sharing feature to enhance the video calling experience on its platform.

The Meta-owned firm also unveiled an instant video messaging feature in July.

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Nationwide blackout as Nigeria’s electricity grid collapses again

Nigeria has again been thrown into darkness after the national grid system, operated by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) from Osogbo in Osun State collapsed

In the early hour of today showed that the grid plummeted to a meagre 273 megawatts of electricity coming from two out of the over 27 electricity generation.

This comes barely a week after TCN, rolled out the drum to celebrate a questionable 400 days of grid stability.

A number of Distribution Companies confirmed to The Guardian that the grid went down at 00:41 AM, disclosing that most of their feeders are out.

As of 4:00 a.m. on Thursday, five generating plants were on the grid. Afam VI had 0.70MW, Dadinkowa was generating 0.00MW, Ibom Power had 32.90MW, Jebba had 240MW and Olorunsogo was on the grid with zero generation.

At about 1AM midnight, the total power on the grid was 35MW, indicating that the country experienced a total collapse.

The grid went to 193MW at about 3AM before climbing to 273MW when this report was filed.

The TCN has not responded to inquiries by our correspondent about the development