Daniel mtindiga, Jalingo.

Peacock College of Education, Jalingo, on Saturday held a combined matriculation ceremony for its newly admitted students, charging them to uphold the institution’s values of academic excellence and good conduct.

The Matriculation which marked the 10th for the NCE/Diploma and 7th for the Undergraduate, took place at the College’s premises in Jalingo the State Capital and was well attended by people from all works of life including Politicians, Traditional Rulers, Business men/women, parents and students.

In his address, the Provost of the College Dr. Bernard Tata emphasized the importance of hard work and ethical behavior, stating, “Education is not just about acquiring certificates but about shaping character and contributing meaningfully to society.

“Peacock College is committed to producing well-rounded graduates who will excel in their fields and uphold moral integrity, contributing meaningfully to State/National development, “he said.

He congratulated the matriculants and urged the students to take their studies seriously and maintain discipline throughout their academic journey.

Also speaking,the Chairman Governing Council Hon.Aminu Abdul Liman, highlighted the college’s zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, warning that any form of indiscipline would be met with strict sanctions.

He announced new undergraduate programs, including BSC Sociology ,Mass Communication,Public Administration,Peace and Conflict Resolution, Accountancy among others, assuring students and members of the public of managements resolve to position the College on the global map.

Hon. Liman also appreciated his Staff/Management team for their unflinching support and and urged them to keep up the good work.
Me while, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics Taraba State University Jalingo, Professor Reuben Jonathan who represented the Vice Chancellor of TSU, lauded the College’s Management for the remarkable progress and promised to span the partnership between the College and TSU so long as the rules of engagement are protected.

He further called on well meaning sons and daughters of Taraba State and beyond to join hands with the Government and other private individuals in promoting education and learning in the State.

Speaking on behalf of the matriculating students, Miss Fatima Abubakar pledged their commitment to excellence, saying, “We understand the privilege of being here and promise to make the most of this opportunity by being diligent and respectful.”

The ceremony concluded with the administration of the matriculation oath, symbolizing the students’ formal induction into the college.

Ny Peter Cheman Koti.

It was famously written in an epitaph often attributed to a Bishop of Westminster Abbey: “When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world… If I had only changed myself first, then by example, I would have changed my family… and, who knows, I may have even changed the world.”

This reflection on transformation resonates deeply with Dr. Ishaya Inuwa Durkwa. The measure of a leader is first seen in his personal life, then in the influence he exerts on his family, his work, and the people he guides. Ultimately, the true worth of leadership lies in how one treats those around him and the positive change he inspires in his community, his state, and the wider world.

Dr. Ishaya Inuwa Durkwa embodies this philosophy. A towering figure who carries himself with humility, he reflects grace, discipline, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being and advancement of his people.

Dr. Durkwa hails from Wuyaku village in Garkida District of Gombi LGA, Adamawa State. Despite a modest beginning, he pursued his dreams with courage and determination. Today, he is a politician and also known as a political thinker, humanitarian, peacebuilder, activist, and advocate of social justice.

As a dynamic voice for positive change in Nigeria, Dr. Durkwa has spent years advancing causes that promote accountability, improve citizens’ welfare, and strengthen national security. His long-standing engagement in political activism underscores his belief in the power of informed civic participation.

As a political analyst, he applies his experience and breadth of knowledge to examine national issues and suggest practical solutions. His analyses, shared through media outlets in Plateau, Adamawa, Abuja, and various online platforms, contribute to public discourse and inform policy debates across the country.

Alongside his political engagements, Dr. Durkwa is committed to academic growth. He holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies and multiple certifications across diverse fields, reflecting his continuous pursuit of knowledge and ethical leadership.

His leadership expertise is further strengthened by dual Master of Arts degrees: one in Organizational Leadership from California Baptist University (2023) and another in Urban Transformational Leadership from William Carey International University (2023). These qualifications provide him with advanced skills in leadership strategy and sustainable community development, a foundation he hopes will inspire the youths of Adamawa State and beyond.

As Executive Director of the International Organization for Peace Building and Social Justice (PSJ), Dr. Durkwa champions initiatives that promote fairness, peace, and legislative reform. Through PSJ, he collaborates with stakeholders across sectors to drive evidence-based advocacy and strengthen social cohesion.

His passion for sports is another channel through which he supports youth empowerment. For more than 14 years, he has used sports as a platform to address drug dependency, foster discipline, and promote wellness among young people across West Africa, parts of Asia, and the United States. His work reflects a belief in the transformative power of athletics and its potential to elevate communities.

Recognizing the importance of mental health, Dr. Durkwa volunteers with Charis Healthcare Community Initiative, offering support to individuals and families struggling with substance dependency. He is deeply committed to providing mental health and psychosocial assistance to communities affected by insurgency and kidnapping, helping families rebuild their lives with dignity. Beyond advocacy, he emphasizes practical, research-based models for rehabilitation.

These attributes illustrate a man devoted to service, a father, leader, peace advocate, and humanitarian who strives to uplift communities and inspire change.

The man Adamawa state needs in 2027 is Dr Ishaya Inuwa Durkwa, a consummate father, politician, leader, peacebuilder, philanthropist and God-fearing.

By Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo.

The Chairman of the Taraba State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON)/Chairman Kurmi Local Government,Hon.Moses Maihankali has expressed deep sympathy with the people of Wukari Local Government Area following a devastating fire incident that destroyed the Wukari LG Secretariat.

Speaking with Journalists today at the wedding reception of Mr. and Mrs. Peter John Audu in Jalingo, the ALGON chairman described the fire disaster as “a painful event” and pledged the association’s support and solidarity to the Chairman of Wukari LG.

“We stand in solidarity with the Chairman and people of Wukari during this difficult time. This unfortunate incident has caused significant damage to essential documents and properties of the Local Government, and we will work with relevant authorities to ensure such tragedies are prevented in the future.

“We don’t know how it happened yesterday. Sometimes, things happen naturally and sometimes, people cause it to happen but whichever way, we hope that the reality will soon unfold.

“Disasters like this remind us of the need for better emergency preparedness. We call on all stakeholders to join hands in providing immediate aid and long-term solutions,”he said.

While congratulating the couple, Hon Maihankali urged them to be imbibe patience and embrace true love in it’s entirety, allowing God to direct their steps and actions.

Similarly, he called on the good people of Taraba State to make good new year resolutions while remaining faithful and hopeful in God for breakthroughs.

As Wukari begins the recovery process, the ALGON chairman’s message of solidarity has brought hope to his colleague. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, with authorities emphasizing the importance of fire safety measures in residential,government and commercial areas.

By Christiana Babayo.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence (MOD), Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, on Thursday, 8 January 2026, paid a maiden courtesy visit to the Headquarters of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) in Jalingo, Taraba State.

During the visit, Mr. Pheelangwa commended the Commander, 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, for his effective leadership and sustained efforts in ensuring peace and security across Taraba State.

According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, Lt Umar Muhammad, the Permanent Secretary particularly lauded the Commander’s personal presence and operational oversight during security engagements in Jalingo and Jen communities of Karim Lamido Local Government Area, noting that these efforts contributed significantly to maintaining calm and boosting public confidence, especially during the Yuletide period.

The Permanent Secretary also praised officers and soldiers of the Brigade for their discipline, professionalism, and commitment to duty, describing their conduct as exemplary and reflective of the core values of the Nigerian Army.

He urged the formation to sustain its current operational tempo and strengthen civil-military relations, which he noted have been instrumental in curbing insecurity and unrest within the state and its environs.

In his response, Brigadier General Uwa expressed appreciation to the Permanent Secretary for the visit and words of encouragement. He reaffirmed the loyalty and dedication of officers and men of 6 Brigade to the constituted authority, assuring that the formation would continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities in Taraba State.

Earlier in the day, the Commander, 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, accompanied by senior officers of the Brigade, paid a courtesy visit to Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) Wesley Tafida, a World War II veteran, at his residence in Jalingo.

The 106-year-old veteran, who is also the father of retired Major General H. T. Wesley, warmly received the delegation and expressed appreciation for the visit.

RSM Tafida commended Brigadier General Uwa for his leadership and commitment to securing the state, while sharing experiences from his military service during World War II between 1944 and 1945.

He recalled serving as a courier responsible for conveying arms and ammunition and disclosed that he was later discharged from 93 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, Ojo Cantonment, after seven years of meritorious service, having attained the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major.

The twin engagements highlight the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, civil-military cooperation, and the honouring of veterans who have rendered distinguished service to the nation, while sustaining peace and security in Taraba State.

Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo.

The Civil Society Organisation of Nigeria (CSON), Taraba State Chapter, has honored the Commander 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa with a prestigious Leadership Award.

The award was presented to him by members of the CSO Taraba State Chapter during a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army in Jalingo.

The State Chairman, Dr Joseph Gimba, who led the delegation while presenting the award explained that the visit was aimed at appreciating the Brigade Commander’s consistent efforts in restoring and sustaining peace across the State.

Dr Gimba stated that the prevailing peace and enhanced security currently enjoyed in Taraba State are a direct results of the Commander’s gallant leadership, strategic initiatives and unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property.

He noted further that Brigadier General Uwa’s inclusive leadership style, proactive operational posture and strong civil–military engagement have significantly curtailed criminal activities while strengthening public confidence in the security architecture of the State.

“It is in recognition of these outstanding strides that the Civil Society Organisation of Nigeria, Taraba State Chapter, deems fit to present this Award of Excellence in Service and Leadership,”he said.

In his remarks,Brigadier General Uwa expressed his profound appreciation to the organisation for the honour.

Gen.Uwa maintained that the award was a testament to the collective efforts, sacrifices and professionalism of officers and soldiers of 6 Brigade.

He further reaffirmed the resolve of troops of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke to remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and property, while pledging continuous collaboration with civil society organisations, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and stability in Taraba State.

By Christiana Babayo.

The newly appointed Executive Director of the Women and Children Health Empowerment Foundation (WACHEF), Beden Mergu Barnabas, alongside her Deputy, Faiza Abubakar Yaro, has officially resumed office following their recent appointments.

The duo assumed duty on Monday at the WACHEF office in Jalingo, where they were warmly received by the Founder/Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), staff members, and volunteers during a modest welcome ceremony.

In her remarks, Mrs. Barnabas expressed deep appreciation to the BoT Chairman and members for the confidence reposed in her. She also thanked staff and volunteers for the warm reception, pledging to lead the organization with transparency, dedication, and teamwork.

The Executive Director reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening WACHEF’s programmes, expanding strategic partnerships, and consolidating the foundation’s impact across communities within and beyond the state.

On her part, the Deputy Executive Director, Faiza Abubakar Yaro, expressed her readiness to work closely with the Executive Director to deliver on WACHEF’s mandate.

She called for unity, innovation, and collective responsibility among staff and volunteers to advance the organisation’s goals.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Garba Danjuma, congratulated the new executives on their appointments, describing them as well-deserved.

He tasked them to adopt a balanced blend of autocratic and democratic leadership styles where necessary, to ensure efficiency, discipline, and inclusiveness in the administration of the foundation.

Dr. Danjuma also urged staff and volunteers to give their full cooperation and support to the new leadership to enable them to successfully deliver WACHEF’s vision and mission.

The BoT Chairman further disclosed that WACHEF will commission its state-of-the-art office complex as part of activities marking its 25th anniversary.

He added that the foundation will donate grinding machines to beneficiaries in Gashaka communities and carry out deworming of about 1,000 children from communities in Madaga and Sarkaka in Sardauna Local Government Area of the state.

By Rejoice Justine Benyu

The Worldview Magazine has appointed Ambassador Rikwense Muri as its new Political Editor, in a move widely seen as a boost to political journalism in Taraba State and beyond.

The appointment letter was formally presented to Ambassador Muri by the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Taraba State Council, Comrade Mathew Eliud Jen.

At the same ceremony, Ambassador Muri was inducted into the Worldview Magazine Chapel of the NUJ as a professional journalist, with full rights and privileges accorded by the union.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Editor of Worldview Magazine, Mr. William Ayooso, commended Ambassador Muri for his consistent contributions to journalism and public discourse in Taraba State.

He described the appointment as both a recognition of past efforts and a call to greater responsibility, urging him to use the platform to further shape constructive political narratives in Taraba State and across Nigeria.

In his response, Ambassador Rikwense Muri expressed deep appreciation to the Worldview Magazine Chapel for finding him worthy of membership in what he described as a “noble profession within the fourth estate of the realm.”

He pledged to uphold the ethics, integrity, and responsibilities of journalism, assuring the Chapel that he would not take his new role or professional affiliation lightly.

The appointment underscores Worldview Magazine’s commitment to strengthening credible political analysis and informed public engagement through experienced and principled voices.

Daniel Mtindiga Jalingo.

The Majority Leader, Taraba State House of Assembly/Member Representing Wukari 1 State Constituency, Honorable Jethro Yakubu has called on his Constituents to embrace peace and live in harmony and love.

He made the call in Jalingo while interacting with Journalists at the just concluded combine service organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State Chapter.

The Honorable Member in his New year message to his Constituents and the people of Taraba State, emphasized the need to live in peace and harmony for the progress of Wukari 1 Constituency and the State at large.

He expressed optimism that year 2026 is a year of progress for everyone, urging all to engage in businesses and activities that are capable of bringing progress, development, unity and peace in the State and beyond.

He further reiterated his unwavering commitment to working more closely with his Constituents for more development.

“As Leaders, God has blessed us to ensure that we embrace and value our people, their voices and our Communities, leaving our doors open for them at all time.

” I am trusting God to work even more closely with my Constituents to ensure that we achieve our set goal for the year together, “he said.

Speaking further, he commended Taraba CAN for organizing such a great service aimed at strengthening unity among the Christian Community and prayed for God’s Mercy to sustain the entire people of Taraba State and Nigeria.

Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo.

The Taraba State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN),has hosted a landmark combine service at the CAN Secretariat Jalingo to mark 2026.

In his address during the service, the Taraba State CAN Chairman, Very Rev Fr. Williams P. Awoshiri charged christians to return all thanks, honor and glory to God Almighty-the Creator of heaven and earth and the sustainer of nations adding that the gift of a New year was not an entitlement but a divine privilege granted by God’s Mercy and grace.

He maintained that the New year stand before all believers as a fresh chapter, giving an opportunity for renewal, reconciliation, repentance and recommitment to God and to the service of humanity.

“The past year presented us with challenges, uncertainties and moments of trials yet, God remained faithful. Therefore, with humble hearts, let us give thanks to God for preservation, protection, provision and hope,” he admonished.

Fr Awoshiri further called on all residents of Taraba State including Christians, Muslims and people of all faiths/ethnic backgrounds, to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and responsible citizenship, rejecting violence, intolerance and division.

“Let us teach our children the values of love, honesty, hard work and respect for human dignity. When we work together in unity, Taraba State will continue to stand as a beacon of peace and harmony,” he said.

Reflecting on the Theme: God’s Mercy as contained in Psalms 136:1-7,the Guest speaker Rev Simon Ali explained that Christians who do not obey God miss the benefits of His mercy. He defined God’s Mercy as the demonstration of His loving-kindness towards humanity.

Rev Ali revealed that God chooses to withhold punishment for sin and instead, extends unmerited favor towards sinners, admonishing the congregation to reverence God and live holy lives to enjoy God’s divine mercy.

Other Speakers at the gathering including the Special Adviser on Christian Religion Matter Very Rev Fr Sunday Muke Patrick,Bishop Emmanuel Ande of the United Methodist church, Rev Mark Dopa among others,expressed gratitude to God and extended appreciation to CAN’s leadership for successfully organizing the joint service, calling on all to prioritize unity, peace and love.

Prominent at the event was the Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency, Dr Agbu Kefas, the Speaker Taraba State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, the Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, His Lordship Most Rev Charles Michael Hamawa among many other high profile Clerges and politicians.

By Mohammed Tikka

A frontline politician and Senior Special Adviser to Governor Kefas on Legal Matters, Barrister Jime Yongo has denied the news trending in the socio-media space that the Governor of Taraba, Dr Agbu Kefas told the Tiv of Taraba State he did not care about the crisis that is consuming their lives in Takum and other parts of the State.

Barrister Jime Yongo made the clarification in a rejoinder to the media reports, a copy of which was given to Worldview Magazine. He was particular on the version published on facebook by one Musa Jankada, even as he described as a piece of mal-information.

According to him, the mal-information portrayed that Governor Kefas was insensitive and hostile to the Tiv people of the State, whereas it was a heart-to-heart discussion, between a father and his children, which was full of assurances for a better tomorrow, closing the gaps of ethnic distrust, among other issues of mutual family interest.

Barr. Jime said his clarification has become necessary in the interest of truth, public clarity, and the collective pursuit of peace.

“On Wednesday, 24 December 2025, Tiv traditional leaders, political appointees, women and youth leaders from Wukari Local Government Area paid a traditional Christmas homage to His Excellency at TY Danjuma House, Wukari, during the Governor’s Christmas visit to his hometown.

“I was privileged to serve as the leader of the Tiv delegation and was physically present throughout the engagement.

“The interaction between the Governor and the Tiv people was cordial, respectful, and marked by warmth, humour, and mutual goodwill. At no point did His Excellency make statements suggesting hatred, indifference, or disregard for the lives and wellbeing of Tiv people. Rather, his remarks were repeatedly met with applause, cheers, and visible affirmation from those present.

Barr Jime Yongo described as deeply unfortunate an engagement intended to strengthen trust, unity, and peaceful coexistence has been selectively interpreted and mischievously presented in a manner that distorts both its spirit and content.

“For the avoidance of doubt, careful and repeated listening to the audio recording of the Governor’s address confirms that His Excellency never stated that he “does not care” about the killings of Tiv people, nor did he declare any form of non-intervention. Instead, he made a clear and heartfelt call for collective responsibility in the pursuit of peace” He stated.

He quoted Governor Agbu Kefas as saying that “I welcome all of you, our brothers… All of us need peace, and nobody can sell this peace to us, and we cannot go and buy it; we need to create it by ourselves through compromise, negotiation, persuasion and prayers.”

“We need to create the peace for ourselves. Nobody can sell peace to us. Nobody from somewhere can give us peace. We need to work for peace through compromise, negotiation, dialogue, persuasion and prayers. I am a Jukun man, but Governor of all, so I am wearing two caps.”

According to Barr Jime Yongo, these statements clearly underscore inclusiveness, shared responsibility, and the Governor’s commitment to governing Taraba State without ethnic or religious bias.

In further illustration of his personal commitment to unity and equity, His Excellency stated:

“I have Tiv people I am catering for, paying their school fees. I have sent one of them to London; I have not sent any of my family members to study in London.” Barrister Jime quoted Dr. Governor’s remarks during the interaction.

On issues of land, leadership, and coexistence, the Governor explained:

“There is no Tiv man that will not go back to where they were living, but we need cooperation and time… As a government, if there is need to take land from people, I must provide a better alternative… I want us to live together. Let us learn how to trust ourselves. We don’t trust each other. Someone must take the risk to lead the unity process. Let us sit down and change our approach.”

Barr. Jime referred to Gov Kefas remarks and stressed that they reflect a call for patience, dialogue, trust-building, and reconciliation rather than confrontation.

“His Excellency also outlined concrete actions already taken by his administration, including the deployment of security forces, particularly the military, following the unfortunate incident in Chanchanji, Takum Local Government Area. It is on record that security presence has been sustained in Chanchanji and other flashpoints to restore calm and prevent further escalation. Tiv elders who visited Chanchanji during the Christmas period have independently confirmed the seriousness with which the crisis is being addressed.

Barr Jime Yongo, noted that the Governor further explained that the establishment of military Forward Operating Bases in Wukari, Karim Lamido and Nigeria-Cameroon border are aimed at blocking security leakages along the borders with Benue, Nasarawa, Adamawa, Gombe, and Cameroon, and not for land grabbing or discrimination against any group.

“It must therefore be stated categorically that the claim attributed to His Excellency, suggesting indifference or non-intervention is a gross misrepresentation of facts, an imaginary fabrication, and a dangerous piece of misinformation that should be disregarded by all fair-minded and peace-loving citizens.” He added.

Barr Jime Yongo believes that at this delicate moment, Taraba State requires restraint, truthfulness, and responsible communication from all stakeholders. Peace in the state remains a shared responsibility, and no individual or group should be allowed to undermine ongoing efforts through misinformation, inflammatory narratives, or reckless publications.

“We therefore urge the public to disregard reports that inflame suspicion and deepen divisions. “He stated.