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JUST IN: Chief of Army Staff leads high-powered security team to Plateau

Published

2 months ago

April 2, 2026

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu on Thursday, led heads of security agencies on an on-the-spot assessment of the security situation in Jos, Plateau State.

Shaibu’s visit comes barely 24 hours after the crisis in Jos North Local Government Area of the state escalated resulting in the killing of residents, burning down of churches and building among others.

In a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief’s visit forms part of ongoing efforts to restore calm and entrench lasting peace across the state.

Anele stated that upon his arrival in Jos, Shaibu was received by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, a clear demonstration of strong civil-military cooperation and a shared commitment to addressing emerging security challenges.

She also noted that the Army Chief received a comprehensive operational briefing from the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander, Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Folusho Oyinlola.

Furthermore, the briefing, Anele said highlighted ongoing operations and proactive measures being implemented in synergy with other security agencies to contain threats, protect lives and property and stabilise affected communities.

In addition, Shaibu also interacted with community leaders and residents, reassuring them of the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Army to safeguarding all law-abiding citizens.

He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and supportive of security agencies by complying with the curfew and cooperating fully with ongoing operations and investigations, while going about their lawful activities.

In his address, the Chairman of Jos North Local Government Area, Dachung Bagos, commended Shaibu for his timely visit.

Bags said that the presence of the COAS in Plateau State would boost public confidence and reinforce trust in ongoing security efforts.

Also speaking, the Councillor representing Naraguta ‘B’ Ward, Ladi Dangyok, expressed appreciation for the swift intervention.

He described the COAS visit and military intervention to the security challenge in the state as a strong reassurance to affected communities.

News

Sen Jang Opposes Indigene Certificates for Hausa/Fulani Residents, Raises Concerns Over Plateau Identity

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2 hours ago

June 14, 2026

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Former Plateau State Governor and elder statesman, Senator Jonah David Jang, has voiced strong opposition to proposals that would allow Hausa/Fulani residents in Plateau State to obtain indigene certificates, describing the issue as one with far-reaching implications for the state’s cultural heritage, identity, and indigenous rights. Jang made his position known while addressing ongoing debates surrounding citizenship, residency, and indigeneity, topics that have remained at the center of political and social discussions in Plateau State for decades.

According to the former governor, indigene certificates are historically linked to communities and ethnic groups recognized as the original inhabitants of Plateau State and should not be granted solely on the basis of long-term residence. He argued that while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to live and conduct lawful activities anywhere in the country, such rights should not automatically translate into indigene status, which he said carries unique cultural and historical significance.

Jang further maintained that preserving the distinction between residents and indigenes is necessary to protect the interests, heritage, and political representation of indigenous communities. He warned that altering the existing framework could create tensions and undermine the rights of groups that have historically been recognized as native to the state. The former governor emphasized the need for careful consideration of any policy changes relating to indigene certificates to avoid unintended consequences.

The comments have since generated mixed reactions among stakeholders across the state and beyond. While supporters of Jang’s position argue that protecting indigenous identity is essential for maintaining social and cultural balance, others contend that individuals who have lived in Plateau for generations should be afforded broader recognition and inclusion. The debate continues to spark conversations on the broader issues of citizenship, belonging, and equal opportunities within Nigeria’s diverse society.

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Vincent Ugwoke Makes Nigerian Athletics History with NCAA Discus Bronze

Published

3 hours ago

June 14, 2026

Preport

Nigerian thrower Vincent Ugwoke produced one of the most significant performances in Nigerian field event history, launching a massive personal best of 63.89 metres to claim the bronze medal in the men’s discus throw at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

Sports247 reports that the outstanding effort not only secured Ugwoke a place on the podium but also elevated him into the history books, recording the furthest discus throw by a Nigerian athlete since 2004.

Competing against one of the strongest collegiate fields in the world, Ugwoke delivered when it mattered most, producing a career-best mark to earn his first NCAA medal and underline his growing status among Nigeria’s elite field athletes.

The event was won by Jamaican star Ralford Mullings, who captured gold with a throw of 65.81m, while compatriot Racquil Broderick secured silver with a personal best of 64.15m. Ugwoke’s 63.89m throw completed the podium and ensured Nigeria was represented among the medal winners.

Beyond the medal itself, the significance of the performance lies in its historical context. Nigerian athletics has traditionally been known for its success in sprinting and jumping events, making Ugwoke’s achievement particularly noteworthy.

His mark stands as the best by a Nigerian discus thrower in more than two decades, highlighting both the quality of his performance and its importance for the development of field events in the country.

The bronze medal also caps an impressive season of progress for the Nigerian, whose steady improvement culminated in a breakthrough performance on one of collegiate athletics’ biggest stages.

Delivering a personal best under championship pressure is a testament to both his preparation and competitive mindset.

For Nigerian athletics, Ugwoke’s achievement serves as a reminder of the growing depth of talent emerging across different disciplines.

His success could provide inspiration for a new generation of throwers looking to make their mark nationally and internationally.

With a personal best, an NCAA bronze medal, and a place in the record books now secured, Vincent Ugwoke leaves the championships having achieved a truly memorable milestone.

His 63.89m throw will be remembered as one of the finest Nigerian discus performances of the modern era and a significant moment in the resurgence of Nigerian field events.