From Jude Dangwam, Jos

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has sworn-in permanent secretaries into the State Civil Service with a charge on them to give their all especially now that his administration is set to reform the state civil service.Mutfwang said what his administration has inherited in the state civil service is a situation that no one should be proud of, adding that there is going to be a massive transfer of Civil servants across the state.

He stated this yesterday during a brief ceremony held at the Victoria Gowon Auditorium new government House Little Rayfield. ”You’re coming at a critical time when we are trying to reform the state civil service. What we inherited is not what we can be proud of. This is the first time we are writing exams to select permanent secretaries to raise meritocracy.”We are going to make massive reposting and reorganization of Civil servants. Crime number one is for you to lobby, don’t lobby.” He cautionedThe governor also inaugurated the Plateau State Economic Advisory Committee with a view to develop economic blueprints that aligned with the cooperative advantage the state has.”I believe that Plateau State should be the economic hub of Northern Nigeria. The job of this Economic Council is first of all to review our economic policies, regulations and legislation and see how we can reposition them and attract private sector investment into the state.”The Council is to advise on how to position the citizens and residents of the state to benefit and enhance economic activities.” She notedThe Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council Ibrahim Puri assured that committee will do justice to its assignment with far reaching actionable recommendations that will further change the face of the state and its citizens.Mutfwang also received the Czech Ambassador to the Czech Republic to Nigeria, H.E Zdenek Krejci at the state House on a diplomatic visit to further strengthen diplomatic cooperation in the area of education, agriculture and mining which Plateau state prides itself.The Czech Ambassador assured of the readiness of what the Czech Embassy is doing in the plateau state through a reading garden spearheaded by Jenat Faden as part of their commitment in promoting literacy and sharing knowledge that helps in the self-development of people who visited such gardens.Mutfwang appealed for stronger cooperation in the area of science education particularly in the area of technical education in the state which has been neglected over time to harness the potentials of young people in the state.

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

Nollywood is set to premier a new movie “My family and the bandit” in an historic cinematic event in Lokoja, Kogi State.The Chief Executive Officer, Omedia Nigeria Limited Orits Gee disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists yesterday.

He asserted that the highly anticipated premiere of “My Family and the Bandit” will take place at the illustrious Wisdom Plaza in Lokoja Kogi State on 31st of May 2025. Giving an overview of the movie, Orits Gee, who is the producer of the movie, said “My Family and the Bandit” delves deep into the complex dynamics of conflict and rivalry in the context of kidnapping and banditry, portraying the harrowing experiences faced by families taken hostage.”The narrative explores the heinous demands for ransom made by these criminals, the resultant breakdown of trust in security personnel, and the monumental sacrifices made by military personnel who risk their lives to rescue the victims.”The film shines a light on the atrocities committed by bandits, calling attention to a national crisis that warrants urgent governmental intervention.”More than just a story of survival, “My Family and the Bandit” is a testimony to the resilience of those affected by kidnapping—the survivors, the dedicated Nigerian security forces, and the families who have lost loved ones. Through its compelling narrative, the film seeks to convey the human stories often overshadowed by the relentless violence plaguing Nigeria, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the intricate realities of life in the country.”It is a Historic Milestone for Kogi State as This premiere promises to be a landmark event in Kogi State’s cultural landscape, representing the first major movie premiere in the entire region.”The evening will be graced by eminent political figures and esteemed personalities from the Nollywood industry, all coming together to celebrate this cinematic achievement.”The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with awards honoring outstanding cast and crew members who dedicated their efforts to bring this compelling story to life. It will be an evening that not only showcases glamour but also pays tribute to the talent and artistry of those involved in the project.Explaining further, the movie Producer said “this event is set to be a spectacular showcase of talent and creativity, with the red carpet set to roll out at 4:00 PM sharp. Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with glamour, as artists and guests flaunt their stunning costumes and unique looks.”The excitement surrounding this premiere is palpable, marking not only a significant cultural event for Lokoja but also a noteworthy milestone in the Nigerian film industry.”Tickets for this monumental event are currently available for sale. Interested attendees are strongly encouraged to secure their spots early to avoid disappointment. For ticket inquiries, please connect through the designated ticketing channels. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this significant occasion!”At the heart of this exciting premiere is Orits Gee Productions, a leading media house in Kogi State known for its commitment to high-quality Nollywood productions. Headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria, Orits Gee has rapidly proved itself to be a powerhouse within the film industry, playing a crucial role in elevating the profile of Kogi State on the Nollywood map.”This production company is celebrated not only for its high-quality films but also for its innovative storytelling that highlights local talent.”Orits Gee Productions has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant film culture in Kogi State, offering a platform for aspiring filmmakers and actors to shine.”Their steadfast commitment to excellence is evident in every project they undertake, with “My Family and the Bandit” serving as a testament to their vision and ambition.”As they continue to thrive in the Nollywood scene, Orits Gee Productions paves the way for future generations of filmmakers, ensuring that Kogi State remains an essential part of Nigeria’s rich cinematic heritage.”As the countdown to the premiere continues, excitement builds within the community and beyond. “My Family and the Bandit” is more than just a film; it is a celebration of resilience and artistry, exemplifying the power of storytelling. Join us at Wisdom Plaza on the 31st of May to witness the magic unfold and be part of a historic event that promises to leave a lasting impact on the audience and the film industry as a whole”.

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar

A Chieftain of opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State and grassroot politician in Calabar Municipality local government area of the state, Ntufam Maurice Omini-Iso, who decamped to the APC recently, has citing internal division and absence of internal democracy as being responsible for his defection.

Omini-Iso, who defected alongside thousands of supporters, likened the PDP to a sinking ship, stressing that he joined the APC due to Governor Bassey Otu’s impressive infrastructure development and intimidating track record in the area of business and economy. Omini-Iso made the remarks during a conversation with our Correspondent in Calabar yesterday.The grassroot politician praised Governor Otu’s achievements, and the achievement of president Bola Tinubu by making policy decisions that impacts positively on the people in the area of Infrastructural development, which include road construction projects that benefited his community.He emphasized that joining the APC would enable him and his supporters to collaborate with the governor to advance the state’s development.Omini –Iso dismissed claims that he defected to avoid persecution, stressing that he has always been a progressive and was drawn to the APC’s performance.He commended the Otu administration’s achievements, stressing, “The Otu and President Tinubu’s administration is doing extremely well.””I saw that Gov. Otu is a different politician who is doing well in the area of Infrastructural development.”I discovered that APC is doing well. Not only in Cross River state but in Nigeria.And I decided to defect from the PDP to the APC.”If you look at the structural setting and internal democracy of the PDP, they are not doing well. PDP is divided, besides they lack a formidable leadership. No decent Nigerian who is a politician would like to be in a sinking ship.”From the highway to where I reside, he has tarred the road. Otu showed me that he can deliver the goods associated with democracy. So my supporters and I, we had no option than to decamp to his party the APC,” he said.The business tycoon who doubles as grassroot politician averred that movement alongside his supporters to the APC will afford them opportunity to join hands with governor Otu to lift the state to enviable height.He denied rumours made in some quarters by critics that he defected to the APC in order to evade persecution from the leadership of APC