In a show of partnership and patriotism, the Managing Director of the Jos Water Services Corporation (JWSC), Engr. Apollos Simon Samchi, received members of the Mangu Journalists Forum (MJF) on a courtesy visit at his office in Jos, Plateau State. The visit provided a platform for dialogue on promoting peace, correcting negative narratives, and highlighting strides in the state’s water and infrastructural development.
Leading the delegation, Isaac Dachen, Chairman of the Mangu Journalists Forum, said the group was formed to bring together professional journalists from Mangu Local Government Area to project the image of the community in a positive light. He explained that the forum unites practitioners across print, broadcast, and online platforms with the aim of countering misinformation, fostering accountability, and promoting community development. Dachen emphasized that the association is non-political and inclusive, committed to showcasing achievements, condemning wrongs, and supporting peacebuilding initiatives that reflect the true spirit of Mangu.
In his response, Engr. Samchi commended the journalists for their professionalism, unity, and patriotism. He described their efforts as a model for other groups, noting that their mission aligns with the state government’s commitment to transparency and good governance. Samchi stressed that the true image of Mangu must not be defined by crises but by its people’s resilience, diversity, and commitment to peace. He encouraged journalists to sustain balanced reporting and help dispel misconceptions that often arise during security challenges.
Highlighting the Corporation’s achievements, Samchi gave insights into ongoing rehabilitation and expansion projects aimed at ensuring a sustainable water supply across Plateau State. He revealed that several outdated facilities, some over 40 years old, have been modernized, including the Yelwa Water Treatment Plant and Bukuru Overhead Tank, which had been out of service for over a decade. He also disclosed that the Yakubu Gowon Dam will soon undergo full rehabilitation through an internationally supervised project funded by the French Development Agency (AFD) and the World Bank.
According to him, Jos Water Services Corporation is implementing a comprehensive master plan that includes new water pipelines extending to 21 communities, improved treatment facilities, and dedicated power lines to ensure uninterrupted water delivery. He reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, efficiency, and public-private partnerships (PPP) as key to achieving sustainable water infrastructure for Plateau residents.
The visit ended with mutual expressions of collaboration between the Mangu Journalists Forum and the Jos Water Services Corporation toward advancing peace, development, and positive storytelling about Plateau State.
