Minister Urges African Nations to Prioritize Education Transformation

Prof Mamman, Minister of Education

The Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has called on African nations to prioritize the transformation of their education systems.

Speaking at the ongoing 2024 West and Central African Research and Education Network (WACREN) Conference in Abuja, on Thursday, Prof Mamman emphasised the importance of research and education in driving sustainable development and highlighted the need for African nations to address challenges in their educational systems.

“As we gather here today, we are reminded of the transformative power of collaboration and innovation in ensuring equity and inclusivity and adapting to the desecration, dialogue, and evolving global landscape,” Prof Mamman stated.

He also called for collective efforts to advance education and research in West and Central Africa, recognizing the potential for innovative minds and scholarly endeavours to provide solutions to pressing issues.

The minister also highlighted the Federal Ministry of Education’s roadmap to transform the educational system of Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing optimism about the future of the country’s education sector and calling for support from stakeholders across the African continent.

In addition, the Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Mr. Chris Maiyaki, emphasised the need for proactive, innovative, and forward-thinking approaches to teaching, learning, and research.

He highlighted the importance of preparing higher education and research communities for the challenges and opportunities ahead, calling for engagement in thought-provoking discussions, sharing best practices, and exploring innovative solutions to common challenges.

The conference, themed; “Forging Future High Education and Research Communities,” aims to foster collaboration and innovation in education and research across the region.

Gom Mirian – Report

Over 260,000 Candidates Sit for Mock UTME as JAMB Boss Expresses Delight

Over 260,000 candidates across the country participated in this year’s Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Mock UTME) on Thursday, with the Registrar/Chief Executive of JAMB, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, expressing delight over the seamless conduct of the exercise.

The mock exam, which took place across 793 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres, was designed to test the preparedness for the main UTME, scheduled to commence on Friday, 19th April 2024.

Professor Oloyede, after monitoring the mock exam in some of the centres in Abuja, revealed that the exam body also successfully conducted a recruitment examination for the Nigerian Police on Wednesday.

He assured that the few incidents recorded in the Mock UTME in about four centres would be resolved, stating, “So far so good, we are doing mock after mock…everything is going on well and the reports we have is that we are very okay.”

The JAMB boss disclosed that 1.98 million candidates have registered for the main 2024 UTME, with over 260,000 participating in the mock exam.

He emphasised that the mock exam was limited to a specific number of candidates to avoid turning it into another exam, as it was solely meant to test the system.

Regarding the readiness for the main UTME, Oloyede affirmed that JAMB was fully prepared for the smooth conduct of the exam, with new mechanisms to be deployed to further fortify the exam system.

He also mentioned that the results of the Mock UTME would be released either on Thursday evening or Friday.

Also, the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) consultant at JAMB, Damilola Bamiro, highlighted the exam body’s real-time interaction with all the centres through the JAMB’s Situation Room, ensuring prompt resolution of any issues during the exam.

Gom Mirian – Report

Eulogy of HRH Joseph A Kure

Written by Matthew Tukura

“You were not seen in questionable places, and you sincerely served as the custodian of the people’s culture. You tolerated as many ethnic groups to come to Sardauna and do business. Indeed, differences in religion and ethnic groups were not a problem for you; rather, they were strengths that improved the economy of your domain. When exalted to the throne of “AGUMA” Sardauna, you only saw yourself as first among equals.

The purposeful leadership style you provided during your reign comes only once in a generation. You devoted your lifetime to serving God and humanity. You had the opportunity to serve, and you served well. Your reign can best be described as the making of a popular king. You were a peacemaker, therefore have eternal rest on the bosom of your heavenly father.

HRH, Aguma Joseph was honest, loyal, and reliable. He spoke the truth in love and supported the work of God in many ways. You didn’t keep an unforgiving spirit in mind, a secret that was responsible for a long and fruitful life.

Like Joseph of the Bible, you possessed the ingredients for leadership and served people well at any available forum. You preached peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic groups. The leadership you provided for your community and Bassa land gives encouragement to the living that leadership is all about the welfare of others.

I am on the same page with Pastor Paul A. Johnson, whose missionary parents came from the Netherlands but was born in Sardauna and has the traditional title of JIMBA Sardauna when he said, “His love and devotion to God and his care and concern for his people is what I admired Aguma for. I want to use the opportunity for this tribute to thank God for the wise leadership of His Royal Highness and pray that the Lord will soon allow the return of Bassa people to their homeland and select a new Chief who will replace the late Royal Highness.”

Today, on the 17th of February, 2024, the Bassa nation celebrates the home return of a great leader, Aguma Joseph, because you are worth celebrating as one who waters the tree of peace. We celebrate you.”

DMCMA staff urged on need to support incoming CEO

Employees have been called upon to remain resilient in order to ensure growth and progress as they discharge their responsibilities. This was the core of the message of Pharm. Fabian Y. Agwo, the out-going Executive Secretary (ES), Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (DMCMA) at the conference room of the agency, during a meeting held with staff of the organisation. 
The meeting was called to brief staff of the agency on developments regarding the appointment of a new Executive Director, by His Excellency, Barr Caleb M. Mutfwang, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, on Monday, February 12, 2024. Addressing staff of the agency, Agwo appreciated staff for being resilient in the discharge of their duties, even in the midst of lean resources. He thanked them for their hard work, especially at this time that the agency is just taking off amidst all the teething problems associated with the growth of a new organisation. 
He appreciated the patience and cooperation demonstrated by staff in the course of their duty, describing it as commendable. 
Agwo requested that same be extended to the in-coming Executive Secretary.
He pleaded that staff should continue to see the agency as a people-oriented organisation. That the work has a direct bearing on the lives of the citizenry, as such, there is no room for error. 
“The strength of a chain lies in its weakest link,” he said, as such everybody in the organisation is important, and should be treated as such.
The outgoing ES urged that all staff should always put in their best, and continue with the spirit of harmony and togetherness. 
Agwo reemphasised the need for staff to give the in-coming ES the needed support to succeed. That they are not working for an individual, but are working for the overall good of the people of Plateau State.

Plateau Gov signs two electricity laws to boost state development

The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has signed into law two crucial electricity bills aimed at ensuring a robust and reliable power supply for the state’s economic prosperity and overall advancement.

The laws, Plateau State Energy Corporation and Plateau State Electricity Market, are designed to facilitate the generation of adequate electricity, including renewable energy sources, to meet the needs of the public and to enable surplus sales to neighboring states.

Governor Mutfwang, who signed the laws on Tuesday at the New Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos, emphasized the vast potential of each Local Government Area within the state to contribute significantly to electricity generation and distribution.

“This initiative marks a pivotal milestone in our developmental journey, underscoring the indispensable role of electricity. It’s second only to water in its importance, as without it, functioning becomes severely constrained,” stated Governor Mutfwang.

He reiterated that this initiative signifies the outset of a journey towards substantial development and affirmed Plateau State’s readiness for substantial growth and progress. Governor Mutfwang extended an invitation to both local and international investors, in view of the favorable climate and hospitable environment for investment within the state.

“My vision is for Plateau to become a major electricity provider. With your cooperation and support, this dream is entirely feasible,” he said . He also expressed gratitude to the Plateau State House of Assembly for promptly passing the bills and solicited continued collaboration for the state’s advancement.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Plateau State, Barr. Philimon Daffi, hailed the laws as essential components of the current administration’s development agenda.

He emphasized the pivotal role of electricity in industrial growth, affirming that under Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s leadership, the Plateau State Government has taken deliberate measures to enhance electricity infrastructure, thereby delivering tangible benefits of democracy to the populace.

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Daniel Asama of LP Wins House of Reps for Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency

Hon. Daniel Asama

Prof. James Garba declared Hon. Daniel Asama of the Labour Party Winner of the House of Representatives Election for Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency and is thereby returned elected.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES JOS NORTH/BASSA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY FINAL RESULTS AS FOLLOWS

ADC – 2,090
APC – 10,063
APP – 331
LP – 66,422
NNPP – 2,475
NRM – 669
PRP – 61,670
SDP – 336

ADP wins Plateau North Senatorial rerun election

ADP wins Plateau North Senatorial rerun election in Plateau State, Dachunggyang Pam Mwadkon of ADP was declared winner of the election by Prof. Nestor the Returning Officer.

There were six local governments in the district

Total number of registered voters 1232825

Number of accredited voters 278129

The scores as recorded by parties are

AA 214

ADC 11741

ADP 122442

APC 39132

APM 933

LP 33243

NNPP 53980

MRM 126

PRP 11054

SDP 890

ZLP 343

Total valid votes 274098

Rejected votes 2912

Total votes cast 277010

Bassa Community Union condemns attack on Katakpa village

PRESS RELEASE

1. WE, the Bassa Community of Nasarawa State have barely recovered from the shock of the attack on OKUDU Village when we received news of the attack on KATAPKA VIllage on the 1st of February 2024. The unfortunate event came with the loss of three (3) lives and wanton destruction of property.
2. WE want to send our deep condolences to the families and relatives of the victims and ask God to give them the fortitude to bear their loss. We are deeply pained by their loss and we pray that God would comfort them.
3. WE, the Bassa Community of Nasarawa State condemn the attack as lawless, godless and a calculated attempt to frustrate and hinder the Peaceful Return and Resettlement of the Displaced Bassa Community.
4. The attacks are part of a satanic project to make PEACEFUL DIALOGUE between the Bassa and Egbira communities impossible.
5. WE want to ask the following pertinent questions. Why are these attacks coming now after we have had over four years of relative peace in Toto Local Government Area? Why are these attacks coming when our Royal Fathers are meeting to resolve all the outstanding disputes? Who are those behind these attacks? What are their motives? These are questions begging for answers.
6. WE want to assure the whole world that the ENTIRE Bassa Community of Nasarawa State and Toto LGA in particular have chosen the PEACE OPTION.
7. WE also want to send our deep sympathies to the Royal Fathers, the Executive Chairman of Toto Local Government Area and the Elders and Youth of the Katakpa Community. WE urge them NOT TO BE DISCOURAGED by this unfortunate setback. WE are firmly resolved to live in peace with them. WE are NOT lying. WE are NOT being deceitful. WE are sincere. It is natural to want to seek revenge, but in this case, seeking revenge will only create the atmosphere of chaos that the wicked brains behind the whole crisis want.
8. WE enjoin our neighbors to please help us to actualize the Peace Process and Initiatives being worked out by the Royal Fathers under the leadership of His Excellency Engr. A. A Sule. Seeking revenge now will only make the enemies of the Peace Process to win.
9. We want to call on His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. AA Sule, as the Chief Security Officer of the state, to use his good offices to fish out the perpetrators of these criminal attacks so that peace can return to Toto Local Government Area.
10. Ladies and gentlemen thank you so much for listening.
    Chairman, Nasarawa State Bassa Cultural and Development Union (BCDU)

Emmanuel M. Gbaji

Plateau Hikers and Tour Association Launches Season with Unity Hike on Gwash Mountain

Jos, Plateau State – The Plateau Hikers and Tour Association (PHATA) officially kicked off the 2024 hiking season with a unique “Unity Hike” on Gwash Mountain last Saturday, January 20th. This special event marked the first-ever gathering of different registered hike groups under one banner, showcasing the growing popularity of hiking in Nigeria and promoting sustainable tourism development.

Over 276 enthusiastic hikers embarked on the roughly 5km trail, conquering a 251m elevation gain with breathtaking views from two designated vantage points. The event held special significance as a symbol of unity within the hiking community. Mrs. Nanna Dashe Yakubu, PHATA Chairman and NC Zone Coordinator of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), lauded the turnout and highlighted the significance of collaboration in promoting domestic tourism through hiking.

“This is the first of its kind in Nigeria where different hike groups come together to hike,” remarked Yakubu. “We commend all hikers who came out to unite and deliberately promote hiking as a domestic tourism product for Plateau State and Nigeria.”

Yakubu further emphasized PHATA’s commitment to making the Unity Hike an annual event, marking the official start of the hiking season before individual groups begin their own treks. She also encouraged community collaboration, advising chiefs to request PHATA ID cards from hikers to ensure the safety of trails and communities.

Adding to the event’s prestige, certificates of registration were presented to registered hike groups atop Gwash Mountain by distinguished dignitaries themselves passionate about hiking, including Mr. Jim Pam Wayas (Executive Chairman, Plateau State Internal Revenue Service), Dr. Dan Meshak (Personal Physician to the Executive Governor of Plateau State), and Senatorial candidate Barr Gyang Zi.

The following ten hike groups proudly received their certificates:

1. The Trailblazers
2. Wayfarers of Jos
3. Jos Plateau Hikers Club
4. Jos Hike it
5. Plateau the Beautiful
6. Rock Hikers
7. Hikers and Adventurers
8. Mupun A+hikers
9. The Hike tribeQ
10. Pan Hikers

Beyond hiking enthusiasts, the event also attracted participation from the Jos Bird Club and the Juth Suicide Prevention Team, demonstrating the community spirit fostered by PHATA. Organizations like the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), NTDA, ICE FM Jos, and PRTVC also lent their support, contributing to the success of the Unity Hike.

This inaugural event marks a significant milestone for PHATA and Nigerian hiking as a whole. By uniting hike groups, promoting sustainable tourism, and fostering community engagement, the Unity Hike paves the way for a bright future of collaborative exploration and environmental stewardship.

Sacked Plateau PDP Lawmakers Vow to Resume Duties, Warn APC to Stay Away

Jos, Plateau State – Sixteen members of the Plateau State House of Assembly elected under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) who were previously sacked by the Court of Appeal have announced their intention to resume legislative duties on Tuesday, January 23rd. Their bold move comes despite the ongoing legal conflict surrounding their status.

The lawmakers, led by spokesperson Ishaku Maren, claim legitimacy based on the recent Supreme Court judgment reinstating Governor Caleb Mutfwang, arguing that it invalidates the earlier ruling against them. Maren stated, “The Supreme Court had revalidated our ejection, which was wrongly taken away from us by the Appellate court.”

With newfound confidence, the 16 PDP members emphasize their readiness to fulfill their responsibilities. Maren declared, “We are law abiding citizens, and we are ready to resume work to represent the people that duly elected us.” They warned their All Progressives Congress (APC) counterparts not to attempt entry into the House of Assembly, stating, “You might be aware that while we were on recess, there were two Judgments that were passed regarding the status of state House of Assembly and Plateau State as a whole.” They highlighted the Supreme Court’s decision nullifying the Court of Appeal’s judgment as the basis for their claim.

However, the situation remains complex. The APC members, who were originally awarded the seats after the Court of Appeal’s ruling, are also expected to attend the assembly on Tuesday. This potential clash raises concerns about a possible disruption of legislative proceedings.

Meanwhile, the PDP legislators advise Governor Mutfwang to remain neutral in the dispute, declaring, “We are going to resist all pressure.” Maren further warned the APC members, “The Court of Appeal members are deceiving themselves that they are coming to the house tomorrow to resume work but I’m confident to tell you that we are a product of democracy.”

With political tensions rising and the legal battle still ongoing, only time will tell how this situation will unfold and who will ultimately control the Plateau State House of Assembly. One thing is certain: Tuesday promises to be a day of high drama and political maneuvering in Jos.