By Kateng Daniel, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong has received nominees of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Senior Executive Course 44 at the Government House Rayfield Jos.
He charged them to use their period of study to advance solutions in improving Local Government administration in Nigeria.
Lalong in a statement by the Director of Press and public affairs, Dr Makut Simon Macham urged nominees to use the period to study in order to find solutions to local government administration.
Governor Lalong told the nominees that they are coming to Plateau State at a time when the State is enjoying greater peace and stability as well as an increase in visitors and investors.
He said the theme of the Course which is “Strengthening Local Governance in Nigeria: Challenges, Options and Opportunities” is very apt because the Local Government system in Nigeria has been dwindling due to many issues.
The Governor explained that this was why he was among few Governors to grant full autonomy to the Local Governments in Nigeria after series of engagements with stakeholders.
He emphasized the importance of taking back governance to the people at the grassroots through strengthening the tier of Government that has the closest proximity to them.
Lalong assured the nominees that the Government of Plateau State will continue to do everything possible to make their stay at the institute very comfortable, urging them to use the opportunity to discover the true Plateau State that is reputed for Peace, Tourism and Hospitality.
Acting Director General of the Institute, retired Brig. Gen. Chukwuemeka Udaya thanked the Governor for his constant support to the Institute and his participation in its engagements.
He said Governor Lalong has worked hard to restore peace to Plateau State which has made NIPSS course participants very comfortable and eager to come to the State unlike in years past.
Udaya also disclosed that so far, 41 nominees have indicated interest in taking part in golf as an extra curricular activity because of the support and passion that Governor Lalong has demonstrated in developing the sport in the State and Nigeria as a whole.
