…to enhance unity and progress.
by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
JOS: In efforts to bring unity on the Plateau, the State Governor, Barr Caleb Mutfang, has brought together all elders and past governors together in a luncheon organized to move the state forward.
The governor thanked the elders and former governors for honouring the invitation, describing the gesture as a “sign of unity and commitment to the Plateau Project.”
Governor Mutfwang was speaking during the luncheon for State Elders he hosted at the Banquet Hall of the new Government House, Jos.
He said his administration is open to working with all stakeholders for the peace, progress and unity of the State, which underscores his recent engagement with various groups, particularly National Assembly members.
Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, who is immediate past Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, advocated for closer synergy among past leaders of the State in addressing key challenges of growth, security and development confronting the people.
He said the issue of moving the State forward requires views and experiences of all citizens, particularly those who have governed the state at the highest level.
Lalong maintained that such synergy does not negate the political and ideological differences that may prevail among them, as the State is bigger than any individual, political party or interest.
According to him, having operated at the helm of affairs at various times and past through different and sometimes similar challenges, the leaders and elders are in a position to make sure the key issues holding down the State from developing are removed for rapid progress.
Lalong, who is also the leader of the APC in Plateau State, maintained that the luncheon hosted by Governor Mutfwang was an opportunity to rub minds and speak frankly about the development of the State.
He assured that, as leader of the opposition in the State, a Senator of the Federal Republic and Member of the ruling Government at national level, he will continue to ensure that necessary engagements are consummated – for accountability, good governance, peace and progress.
He thanked Governor Mutfwang for hosting the event at the festive season, which speaks of the love and brotherhood that Plateau people are known for.
Other former governors, including Rear Admiral Samuel Atukum, Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye, Da Jonah David Jang – all spoke with passion about the development of the State and supported the call for more robust engagement between the former leaders and other critical stakeholders of the State.
Meanwhile, APC stakeholders from Jos North have paid Christmas homage to the leader of the APC in Plateau State, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, at his Jos residence.
Led by Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Madaki Isa Ajiji, they explained that the visit was to appreciate Simon Lalong for his leadership of the party and for particularly reaching out to them and their supporters, individually, during times of need.
They assured him of their loyalty and support in the quest to building a greater APC in the years ahead. Senator Lalong thanked the visiting team and commended their resilience and diligence in carrying the people along, especially during the season of celebrations, and promised to continue to serve the party and work with all stakeholders in making sure the party moves to greater heights.