Citizens have been encouraged to take the Covid-19 Vaccines uptake seriously as it is safe and effective.
This was made known today at a one-day town hall meeting with influencers on covid-19 vaccine safety & effectiveness held at Greatlinks Continental Hotel Hall Gold & Base, Plateau State.
The program which is part of project activities for Covid-19 Vaccine Public Awareness, Vaccines safety and effectiveness by Friday Bako with support from the MacArthur Foundation and the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD).
Comr Friday Bako, Implementing Partner of CITAD/MacArthur Foundation COVID-19 Vaccine Public Awareness Project, in his opening remark, said the town hall meeting was part of activities aimed at creating public awareness on the covid-19 vaccine and also an opportunity to reach out to marginalized groups, thereby raising ambassadors that will talk to others about the safety and effectiveness of the covid-19 Vaccines.
He noted that it was important to increase the vaccine uptake in the state as the only alternative to curb the dreaded covid-19 virus.
“The role of youth influencers in society can not be overlooked as they offer wider coverage, especially coming from communities where information dissemination is poor. The sensitization will help build them as ambassadors and when they go back to their communities, they will step down what they have heard about the covid-19 vaccine and make sure that there is a wide level of acceptability.” Comr Friday Bako further stated.
Mr. Tobias Choji, Chief Medical Laboratory Scientist at National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) Vom Plateau State while delivering a Presentation on COVID-19 Vaccine Safety & Effectiveness, said that the Covid-19 Vaccines have been certified safe globally because it has passed through the different stages of a clinical trial.
He stated that during the clinical trial, the vaccine’s efficacy, and safety effectiveness is known before being sent to the public for general administration.
Mr Tobia, further noted that issuance of the vaccines was not something that was done within a small circle of people but has passed from local communities to regions to counties and continents with other organizations working with the WHO and the food and drug administration and other agencies, to ensure global standard and safety.
There was also a short drama presentation about the covid19 Vaccine safety, at the end of the town hall meeting, with many participants also attesting, that a lot of the misgivings and mistrust they earlier had about vaccination has been corrected.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu NAM, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, hosted a special Eid el Kabir luncheon for frontline troops in Plateau State in recognition of their sacrifices and sustained efforts in maintaining peace and security across the Joint Operations Area.
The event, organised by Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army in collaboration with the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP), held at the Operation ENDURING PEACE headquarters in Jos and brought together officers, soldiers, their families, and invited guests in a festive atmosphere.
Major General U.B. Abubakar
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, the Commander Armour Corps, Major General U.B. Abubakar, delivered the COAS’s goodwill message, describing Eid el Kabir as a reminder of faith, sacrifice, obedience, and devotion to duty.
He commended troops for their resilience in the face of security challenges across the country, noting their contributions to ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other forms of criminality.
According to him, the Nigerian Army remains proud of the commitment and professionalism of its personnel, adding that their sacrifices continue to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He also paid tribute to fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation, describing their memory as a source of inspiration for serving troops. He extended condolences to their families and assured them of continued support and welfare attention from the Army.
The COAS, through his representative, reaffirmed his commitment to improving troops’ welfare, noting that ongoing infrastructure projects, housing schemes, healthcare support, and educational initiatives for personnel and their families remain a priority under his command philosophy.
He urged troops to remain disciplined, professional, and united, while using the festive period to reflect on the values of sacrifice, loyalty, and service to the nation. He also emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in sustaining operational success.
General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folunsho Oyinlola, said Eid el Kabir symbolizes sacrifice, obedience, and devotion—values he noted are deeply reflected in military service.
He commended troops operating under challenging conditions, describing their resilience and professionalism as vital to ongoing peace efforts in the region.
Oyinlola also observed a moment of remembrance for fallen personnel, stating that their sacrifices must continue to inspire commitment to mission success. He urged troops to remain vigilant and dedicated to sustaining gains in security operations.
The event was attended by senior security officials, including representatives of the Special Adviser on Security to the Plateau State Government and Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, heads of security agencies, senior military officers, and other stakeholders.
High-ranking officers also took part in serving meals to troops, a gesture that highlighted camaraderie and appreciation, while cultural performances and entertainment added colour to the celebration.
The luncheon ended with renewed calls for unity, discipline, and continued dedication to national service as troops marked the Eid celebration with their families and colleagues.
Jos is set to come alive in Arsenal colours as fans across Plateau State prepare for the much-anticipated Jos Arsenal Victory Parade, UEFA Champions League Watch Party, and Arsenal Awards Night in what promises to be one of the biggest fan gatherings in the city.
The event, described as the ultimate Gooners’ link-up, will bring together Arsenal supporters from across the state for an evening packed with celebration, entertainment, and football passion — with free entry for everyone.
Activities kick off on Saturday, May 30, with the Victory Parade scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM sharp from Terminus, by Zenith Bank, as fans are expected to flood the streets in Arsenal jerseys to celebrate in style.
The celebration will then move to Tamarald Event Centre (Outdoor), off Old Airport Junction, from 4:00 PM, where guests will enjoy an exciting lineup of activities.
Organisers have promised premium entertainment featuring free party jollof for the first 50 attendees, sizzling barbecue, music performances, comedy, dance showcases, special Arsenal awards presentations, and the official launch of a brand-new Arsenal-themed song.
Supporters are simply encouraged to show up in their Arsenal jerseys and be part of the unforgettable experience.
The event is supported by Areo Global Services, Malangwa Media Empire, Nugroove Multimedia, Grace Dimensions Ministries, Dabels Cakes and Catering, Jos Metro Foods, Da Zone Concepts, Joe B Entertainment, Royal K.O.C, and the Gunners Rhythm Gang.
For enquiries, support, and table reservations, interested participants can contact:
07031001105
08126007839
For Jos Gooners, this is more than an event — it is a celebration of football, community, and Arsenal pride.