On the 15th of April, 2024 Plateau Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (PLASMIDA) in collaboration with Plateau State Association of Tech companies (PLATEC) commenced a week-long free ICT training program for fifty selected Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) in Plateau State.
The Director-General of PLASMIDA, Hon. Bomkam Ali Wuyep, expressed gratitude to the Plateau State government, led by H.E. Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for providing an enabling environment for PLASMIDA’s activities. He also acknowledged the unwavering support and technical expertise of the PLATEC chairman and executive committee, emphasizing their crucial roles in bringing the training program to fruition.
The training program, aptly named the “Green Cap Initiative,” reflects the commitment of stakeholders in promoting sustainable economic development and nurturing a robust digital ecosystem in Plateau State.
During his speech, Hon. Bomkam Ali Wuyep highlighted the numerous benefits of the ICT training, including breaking down geographical barriers, cost-effectiveness, measurable results, targeted advertising, personalization, 24/7 availability, and competitive advantage. These benefits are expected to equip the participating MSMEs with the necessary skills and knowledge to leverage digital technologies effectively in their businesses.
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies, tech companies, and the media. The participants expressed their enthusiasm and optimism about the training program, recognizing its potential to transform their businesses and contribute to the economic growth of Plateau State.
In conclusion, the one-week free ICT training program organized by PLASMIDA and PLATEC signify a significant step towards advancing digital literacy and fostering innovation among MSMEs in Plateau State. The collaboration between the public and private sectors underscore the collective efforts towards building a thriving digital economy and sustainable future for the state.
Today, April 14, 2024, at his residence in Jos, Plateau State, Honorable David Jang Zoyong, the Special Adviser on Skills Acquisition to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, celebrated his 60th birthday in a grand style surrounded by family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers.
The Special Adviser on Skills Acquisition described his 60th birthday as a result of God’s Benevolence, noting that “basically, life has been revolving for me and I see it everyday as it comes, there’s a need for celebration because I know that I am a product of God’s Benevolence”
“While Celebrating My 60 years of life, I cannot remember being in the hospital. I only been in the hospital only ones in 1977 when I had typhoid, since then God have been merciful and I have been strong”
Mrs. Dooshima David Jang Zoyong, the celebrant’s wife, complimented him on his achievements and prayed for God to reward and recognise his generosity and desire to aid humanity. She also expressed her sincere prayer for God’s assistance in helping the person she truly desires to help.
Former Senate Minority Leader, Sen. Dr. Simon Mwadkwon, hails Hon. Jang Doyong’s 60th birthday as unique. He praised Doyong for completing 60 years and expressing gratitude to God for his life. Sen. Mwadkwon viewed this as a welcome development and something worth celebrating.
In the same vein, Hon. Timothy Golu, special adviser to Governor Mutfwang on Strategic Communications, expresses happiness at being part of the joy of God’s work in the life of Hon. Jang Doyong, a 60-year-old colleague, senior brother, politician, and leader, who has been blessed with specific years. demonstrating his awareness of God’s benefits on his life. There are individuals who have been admitted beyond the specified number. He is conscious that someone is looking after him, protecting him, providing for him, and ensuring his safety.
Other notable attendees included Hon. Musa Agah, former member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, Hon. Timothy Dangtong, former member representing Riyom and Hon. Esther Simi Dusu, former member representing Jos North-West in the state house of assembly, among others.
Kizz, the Musical Genius BBC 1 Extra has given Daniel a plaque for Twe Twe. Number one on the official UK Afrobeat chart was his big single.
The chart-topping tune Twe Twe by Nigerian musical sensation Kizz Daniel has earned him a coveted plaque from BBC 1Xtra, demonstrating his industry brilliance once again. With the song’s ascent to the top of the official Afrobeat chart, Kizz Daniel’s standing as a global music star has been cemented.
UK 🇬🇧 Afrobeats chart No.1 Plaque for Twe twe by Kizz Daniel
He is well-known for his distinct sound and catchy songs, and his remarkable fusion of modern and Afrobeat music genres has mesmerized fans all over the world. Twe Twe has gained popularity among both fans and critics because of its catchy hooks and upbeat rhythm; it is praised for its lyrical depth and contagious enthusiasm.
Kizz Daniel is one of Africa’s most promising musical exports, and his fame is rising as Twe Twe monopolizes the airways and attracts new listeners. Kizz Daniel is unquestionably a force to be reckoned with in the music business because to his distinctive sound and indisputable talent.
The hit song garnered 193,000 streams on YouTube Nigeria. Showa from his TZA EP ranked no. 4 on the Turntable Afro pop charts.
This week’s top 5 on Top Afro-Pop Songs in Nigeria:
Ice Prince, a Nigerian rapper noted for his distinctive combination of hip-hop and Afrobeats, has set a release date for his fourth studio album.
The album is named “Fire and Ice“. The musician took to Twitter to announce the album’s release date, May 3, 2024. Ice Prince, whose actual name is Panshak Zamani, has been in the music industry for almost a decade, and his debut album Everybody Loves Ice Prince was released in 2011. His music is distinguished by a combination of chilled, thrilling hip-hop and colorful, joyful pop songs, which has garnered him a devoted following and critical praise.
The rapper’s current smash track, “Kolo,” featuring Oxlade, has received favorable reactions, and he has hinted at an album release on social media. Ice Prince has signed with 300 Entertainment, an American label that also handles Young Thug and Megan Thee Stallion, making him the first African artist on their roster.
Ice Prince stated that his upcoming album, Fire and Ice, will be a reflection of his identity, which he characterizes as Fire and Ice, in an interview with OkayAfrica from 2021. The rapper’s new song, which is expected to highlight his unique style and narrative skills, is highly anticipated by fans.
I Pledge my allegiance.. To Release my 4th studio album on the 3rd of May 2024 FINALLY !! New Music April 12 🎵🔊
Statement made available to this medium and was signed by Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Special Adviser (Media) to Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Plateau South Senatorial District stated that
Lalong who led the delegation to the headquarters of the Nigerian immigration Service in Sauka Abuja said her appointment by President Bola Tinubu is very befitting considering her competence, character and qualifications.
He said they were at the office not on oversight but on a solidarity visit to an illustrious daughter of Plateau State who deserves to be encouraged and supported.
Senator Lalong recalled her days in Plateau State as State Comptroller while he was Governor, saying she brought so much capacity, proactiveness and intelligence driven solutions to the security of the State.
He said they will do everything to support her in order to ensure that the she succeeds in this national assignment.
He appreciated President Bola Tinubu for appointing her and also thank the Minister of Interior for supporting her.
Responding, the Comptroller General Kemi Nandap said she was elated to see her people who had not only congratulated and rejoiced with her in the media, but have found time to pay a visit.
She recounted her tour of duty in Plateau State and spoke glowingly about the support and guidance she received from the then Governor, Simon Bako Lalong.
Nandap declared that she was ready to continue to support the efforts to enhance security and peace in Plateau State using her position in any way needed.
She hinted on improving passport issuance in Plateau State and building a barrack for immigration personnel posted to the State.
The CGI thanked Senator Lalong for initiating her into the game of golf which she said has become a favourite sport for her. She promised to support the growth of the game in Plateau State and Nigeria as well as look forward to playing in Jos as soon as possible.
The Coalition For Peter Obi (CPO) has strongly urge the Party National Working Committee of Labour Party (LP) to ensure the unimpeded inclusion of all willing and committed members in the upcoming congresses.
This was contained in an open letter addressed to Comr. Julius Abure (Esq.), The National Chairman of Labour Party (LP).
The undersigned Coalition of Peter Obi (CPO), a stakeholder in the Obidient movement, led by the Barr. Joshua Ebighiebi, stands as steadfast supporters of the Labour Party.
The coalition are steadfast in their commitment to Peter Obi and Datti Ahmed’s goal of reconstructing Nigeria. As the National Chairman of the Labour Party, they humbly submit this appeal after the Obidient’s online meeting on March 21, 2024.
The National Coordinator of the Coalition , Barr. Joshua Ebighiebi strongly urge the Party National Working Committee to ensure the unimpeded inclusion of all willing and committed members in the upcoming congresses. To achieve this goal, the coalition recommend that the congresses commence from the grassroots level, starting with the wards, progressing to the Local Government Areas (LGAs), and culminating at the state level.
“We believe that this strategic approach will empower party members to actively participate in the selection of their representatives for the National Convention, ensuring a collective and inclusive approach to decision-making processes”
The coalition further recommends establishing explicit mandates for the Screening and Electoral Committees and disclosing their specifics to the public. The electoral process’s credibility depends on increased accountability and openness, both of which will be improved by this strategy.
With a focus on openness and democratic principles, we provide a forum where all members can express their thoughts and help to shape the party’s future. For the party to be strong and advance towards common objectives, inclusivity and grassroots involvement are essential.
The coalition appreciate the National Chairman’s consideration of these recommendations, which we believe will benefit the Labour Party. We look forward to positive reforms that will strengthen the party’s internal democracy and advance its goals.
In a bid to enhance the growth and development of small businesses in the state and its environs, The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Plateau State, Chief Ephraim Usman has made significant contributions towards establishing alliances with community organizations and non profits to support under-represented and marginalized entrepreneurs in Plateau state.
Chief Ephraim Usman disclosed this at A One Day Stakeholders and Entrepreneurship Meeting for small businesses in Plateau State held at Crispan suites and event center in Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State.
While addressing the stakeholders and entrepreneurs, Chief Usman explained that 48% of the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is from Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and over 84% of jobs are created in the Small Entrepreneurship.
“According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in 2023, SMEs employ large proportion of the workforce and they account for 96% of businesses across the Nigeria’s economy. This means that the informal sector where these small and medium businesses exist must be properly engaged and utilized by the government in order to bring about significant improvement in the wellbeing of our people. Apart from creating employment and raising the standard of living of our people, small entrepreneurs are catalysts, for absorbing social shocks and acceleration of poverty reduction mechanism from the community levels” Chief Usman disclosed.
“In Plateau state, the relevance of small and medium enterprises for the growth and development of our people especially from the community and/or rural areas is of utmost concern to His Excellency, the captain of the “Time is Now” administration, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang. It is thus the priority of the government to address poverty, unemployment and social vices amongst the population through constructive re-engineering of the state’s economy”
“Infrastructure that support small and medium businesses are being fixed; conflicts that hitherto threatened businesses including agro-sector enterprises are being addressed; while major re-organizations in the transportation and entrepreneurship sectors are becoming part of key indicators in the policy direction of the government in addressing socio-economic challenges of the people in the state” Chief Usman revealed.
“Government is aware that there are under-represented and marginalized entrepreneurs across the 17 local governments. These are vulnerable groups such as women, minorities and individuals from low income backgrounds, who are involved in one small business to the other. But one of the questions that this engagement and discussions must address is: How can we establish alliances with community organizations and non-profits to support the under-represented and marginalized entrepreneurs on the Plateau? As a government, we are poised via the 7 point agenda of H.E., the governor to address the challenges associated with the business environment and focus towards improving ease of doing businesses on the Plateau”
Therefore, this keynote focuses on:
1. Underscoring the Context of SMEs, Community Organizations and Non-profits in Plateau state.
2. Overview on Marginalized and Under-represented Entrepreneurs.
3. Establishing Alliances with Community Organizations and Non-Profits to support entrepreneurs.
4. Roles of Government.
5. Challenges.
6. The Way Forward.
CONTEXT OF SMES, COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AND NON-PROFITS IN PLATEAU STATE
SMEs
There are several Small and Medium Enterprises in Plateau state. The classification of these enterprises into small, medium and large scale is relative and varies from country to country. However, the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2020 defines a small company as:
“a private company having an annual turnover and net assets value of not more than N120,000,000 and N60,000,000 respectively, it has no foreigner as its member and where the company has a share capital, the director hold at least 51% of the share capital”.
But the above definition has been adjudged to be in variance with the one provided by the Finance Act, 2019 an amendment were made in 2020 Finance Act mostly for the purpose of annual returns and taxation.
However, the context of this engagement and for the purpose of clarity, the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on the Plateau, herein referred to as the marginalized and under-represented cuts across low capital enterprises ranging between capital base of N10,000 – N500,000. This figure represents what most of the businesses get as small start-ups from national empowerment schemes in Nigeria. This is also an opinion that stems from results of empirical findings from a study on “small businesses and impact of selected businesses on Plateau state” (Yakubu, 2023). These businesses are characterized by the following:
(a) Low capital base ranging between N10,000 – N500,000.
(b) Ownership is by individuals or family.
(c) Source of capital is usually savings, borrowing and inheritance.
(d) It is often informal devoid of hierarchy, rules and regulations, record keeping and so on.
Community Organizations and Non-Profits: These are simply community based organizations aimed at making desired improvements to a community’s well-being such as health, education, agriculture, religions, and business endeavours.
They include the following on the Plateau:
– Community work and prospects such as the ones by the Community and Social Development Projects (CSDP) supported by World Bank, UNESCO, USAID and so on.
– Community development organizations such as local NGOs and corporations.
– Community empowerment such as faith based organizations.
– Community mobilization
Examples also cut across church groups, youth groups, community support groups, spirited foundations, advocacy groups, etc.
The primary function of community organizations is to organize, mobilize and educate people to build a sense of community. By doing so, the community gains power or influence over issues concerning their welfare.
By extension, the community organizations are non-profits. This indicates that despite the fact that community organizations are private or non-governmental organizations, the prime goal is not to make profit but to provide services to the communities such as building of primary health care facility, provisions of business training and start-up packs, undertaking agro-extension services, building market stalls, conducting business surveys and consultancy for small businesses, providing inputs to farmers and so on.
WHO ARE THE ENTREPRENEURS DESCRIBED AS MARGINALIZED AND UNDER-REPRESENTED
An entrepreneur is simply a person who sets up a business or in some cases businesses taking on financial risks in the hope of profit making. There are many of them in our markets, homes, street corners, communities, road sides, offices and so on. These people doing their legitimate businesses are either not represented, under-represented or marginalized when it comes to the following:
1. Access to loans or capital to expand and grow their business.
2. Training and capacity building to improve on their business.
3. Access to markets, stores, shops and space to display their goods/services within the community markets.
4. Access to governments’ palliatives to cushion harsh economic changes.
5. Raw materials and inputs for their business.
6. Marketing boards or cooperatives to sell their goods and services without the exploitation of middlemen.
7. Storage facilities particularly for perishable items.
8. Security and safety of lives and properties.
9. Basic market facilities such as water, toilets, access roads, security outpost, parking spaces and first aids/health facilities amongst others.
It must be noted that as a Ministry that is directly working with traditional rulers, local governments and by extension, the communities, I am aware of the critical challenges confronting businesses in our rural markets. The yam market in Bakin Chiyawa, Doka and other Yam producing communities in Qua’anpan or the potatoes, cabbage, carrots, berries, cucumber, rice, maize, millet, cassava, sugarcane, guinea corn, groundnuts, beans, or even the local Tarok yam called “Turret” are all agro-produced within the chain of businesses on the Plateau where those who actually produced them do not have a voice of their own. Secondary and tertiary businesses in Amper markets, Dengi, Pankshin Monday market, Terminus general areas in Jos, Bukuru market, Angware, Jengre, Ampang West, Dyis Abwor, Garkawa market, Building materials market, Farin Gada market, Dilimi and all across the state have entrepreneurs whose under-representation in the above mentioned areas constitutes cumulative challenge to their existence in the markets.
On the other hand, permit me to also acknowledge many youths and women who are doing legitimate businesses like bakers, fashion designers, musicians/entertainers, bloggers, content creators, she/footwear makers, stylists, etc. A lot of them do not have access to the items mentioned in this paper, hence could be adjudged as “marginalized” with low income backgrounds.
ESTABLISHING ALLIANCES WITH COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AND NON PROFITS
Alliances are simply a union or association formed for mutual benefit. They are also a relationship based on similarity of interests, nature and qualities amongst entrepreneurs. The benefits of establishing alliances with community organizations and non-profits are vast and indispensable.
First, alliances could bring about business support, in terms of access to loans, and entrepreneurial empowerment.
Secondly, establishing alliances will be a sure way to organize businesses into corporations for the purpose of accessing government intervention programmes for entrepreneurs.
Again, community projects such as market stalls, stores, warehouses, security, access roads, mobility of goods from farm to markets, and other facilities are better achieved through alliances.
Moreso, market monopolists would be easily regulated through alliances between community organizations and enterpreneurs. This can open up healthy competition amongst businesses.
Veteran Nigerian rapper Terry Tha Rapman has chastised musician Wizkid for his current tendency of “killing” genres with his words.
According to Clusterchannel, Wizkid has come under fire for denouncing Afrobeats in a recent social media post, claiming that he cannot be classified into a single category.
Terry Tha Rapman responded on the X platform, recalling how Wizkid “killed” rap with his declaration that “rap is dead” and has now “killed” Afrobeats with his new rant.
Terry Tha Rapman stated, “First rap, now Afrobeats. How many genres Wizkid wan kill? Highlife, run o!” warns Highlife artists about Wizkid, implying that it may be his next target.
Nigerian music sensation, Davido has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding Afrobeats and R&B, shedding light on the nuanced differences between the two genres.
This comes after fellow artist, Wizkid’s reluctance to be labeled solely as an Afrobeats artist.
A throwback video of Davido resurfaced online today, Sunday, March 17, 2024, capturing the artist articulating his perspective on the matter.
When asked to differentiate between R&B and Afrobeats, Davido pointed out notable R&B singers like Johnny Drille, Chike and Banky W, asserting that some of his own tracks fall within the R&B spectrum. Contrary to common misconceptions, Davido clarified that Afrobeats is not a style of music, rather is used to describe African musicians.
He explained the cultural essence embedded within Afrobeats, emphasizing its roots in African musical traditions. Highlighting the evolving nature of Afrobeats, Davido mentioned Odumodublvck, an African-born hip-hop artist who, despite primarily producing drill music, is categorized under the Afrobeats umbrella.
He further attributed the original sound of Afrobeats to the legendary Fela Kuti, tracing its origins back to his pioneering contributions.
As the global acclaim for Afrobeats continues to soar, Davido’s words serve as a testament to the genre’s dynamic evolution and enduring cultural significance.
The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, (NMGS) has asked that potentials in the mining sector be adequately harnessed to engage young people in businesses, boost the nation’s economy and create wealth as allowing the sector to be operated in the crude form is a minus to the revenue generation drive of governments.
The President of NMGS, Professor Akinade Olatunji made the plea ahead of the Society’s 59th Annual International Conference and Exhibition, AICE which is scheduled to take place in Jos, Plateau State from the 17th to the 22nd of March, 2024 with the theme: “Emerging Global Perspectives, Trends and Sustainable Development of Minerals and Energy Resources.”
Professor Olatunji who spoke with journalists in Jos on Friday reiterated that indiscriminate mining activities is robbing the country of the much needed resources and called for the repositioning of the sector with relevant personnel and technology so the country could reap the gains embedded in coordinated mining activities.
He also called for the immediate address of the activities of the illegal miners through the strengthening and implementation of relevant laws.
According to him, “… There’s a difference between illegal mining and artisanal mining. Illegal mining is any mining done contrary to the prescribed laws of the land. It could be small scale, it could be medium scale. It could be large scale. Artisanal miners use crude implements.
“Addressing the issue of illegal mining is a national and international problem globally, anywhere you have mining activities there are always scavengers lurking around. In Nigeria, we have the law and it is very clear. The law must be implemented… We have said that one of the weak points that prevents the enforcing the law is the lack of adequate manpower. If the government will first strengthen the manpower, train the manpower and give them the mobility to be able to move, things would improve.
“We should stop paying lip service to this but put our money where our mouth is by investing heavily in retooling and equipping the Mining Inspectorate offices. We have so many people without jobs, if the government brings them on board, it will improve the mining sector and will stop these illegal activities because government is losing a lot money on a daily basis across the country. The government needs to employ technology to monitor the sector.”
He revealed that the event has other sub-themes as Unlocking the wealth creation potentials of the artisanal and small-scale mining subsector through innovative implementation of a robust governance structure; opportunities and challenges of renewable energy potentials in Nigeria; management of Nigerian water resources and flood vulnerability; geosciences perspectives to incessant road and building collapse in Nigeria; medical geology, geo-tourism and geo-heritage as new geoscience frontiers of wealth creation, among others and would feature paper presentations, excursion, quiz competition and others.
Hon. Hitler Joshua Pwajok, Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Youth Mobilization and Engagement, has praised the Governor for demonstrating fairness and compassion...
