Governors Muftwang, Sule at POBA event pledges support for development of education

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, and Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, attended the 2024 Pankshin Old Boys Association (POBA) Convention, where they pledged their administrations’ commitment to prioritizing the education sector.

Governor Mutfwang described education as a key priority of his administration, stating that it is a sector that will never be forgotten in his government. He made this statement during the POBA Convention 2024 and the official investiture of HRH Alh. Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, Emir of Keffi, as the Grand Patron of POBA.

Represented by Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Musa Ashoms, Governor Mutfwang commended Government College Pankshin for producing great personalities and leaders, including the Emir of Keffi. He congratulated the Emir on his investiture and pledged his support for the development of the college.

Governor Sule, represented by Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government, Barr. Aliyu Ubandoma Waziri, commended POBA for organizing a successful convention and investiture ceremony. He expressed his confidence that with the Emir of Keffi as Grand Patron, the college will regain its lost glory and achieve its vision.

According to him, with the Emir as Grand Patron the college will regain it lost glory and achieve its vision of why the school was established as an exchange institution as well as Craft school.

Grand Patron of POBA HRH Alh Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa III while responding after his Investiture by the Past POBA Presidents led by Barr. Steve Abar said we gather to celebrate the legacy of Government College Pankshin and the incredible achievements of its alumni.

As we reunite, we remember the bonds forged, lessons learned, and memories created within these hallowed halls. We also acknowledge the impact of this institution on our lives and the opportunities it has afforded us.

“I’d like to extend heartfelt appreciation to our award recipients, whose contributions have inspired us all. Your dedication and excellence embody’s the school’s values.

“Let’s reaffirm our commitment to supporting one another. We must put our heads together, share our expertise and leverage our collective strengths to uplift each other.

“We’re proud to recognize how this regime has empowered us with appointments, entrusting us to drive positive change in our communities. This gesture underscores the government’s faith in our abilities.

“To our governor, we assure you of our unwavering support. As alumni, we stand committed to collaborating, sharing expertise, and fostering growth. Together, let’s create opportunities for each other and uplift our communities in the state.

“Thank you, and may our reunion ignite renewed connections and purpose. May God bless us and give us the opportunity to trust our leaders and continue to pray for their success in running the affairs of our country.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs Plateau State and also a member of POBA Hon. Ephraim Usman said he is proud to be a member of POBA and called on all those who have passed through the school and are in position to assist the POBA executive achieve the mandate of rebuilding the college.

He pledged his support towards ensuring that the lost glory of the school is regained.

2023 Governorship Aspirant and Philanthropist Hon. Kefas Ropshik who was a Special Guest at the Convention and also a friend of the Emir pledged to construct a skills acquisition centre before the end of 2025 to be named after the Emir as an honour to him.

Hon. Ropshik popularly known as Kefiano also made cash donation of N2.8million to POBA and expressed his desire to continue to support the less privileged in the society.

National President of POBA Mr Kenzy Ngupar in his welcome address during the Convention said the Investiture of the Emir of Keffi as the Grand Patron was due to his fatherly role guidance and achievements for the college.

Mr Ngupar, emphasized the importance of the investiture of the Emir of Keffi as Grand Patron, citing his fatherly role, guidance, and achievements for the college.

According to him, POBA also identified few individuals who have impacted positively to the development of Government college Pankshin and honoured them with awards, saying it will be a continuous process.

He commended sets 94, 2004 and all others for executing projects in the institution to include Boreholes, Chairs, solar fixing and others.

Ngupar however called on all members to show dedication and commitment towards rebuilding Government College Pankshin.

The 2024 POBA Convention witnessed award presentations to deserving Members which included Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewam, Commissioner Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs Plateau State Hon. Ephraim Usman, Commissioner for Youths and sports Hon. Noel Nkup and Chairman Jos North Local Government of Plateau State,Job Chris.

Others recognize for their commitment and support are the Chairman of Bogoro Local Government of Bauchi state Hon. Lawi Sumi and all Past Presidents of POBA as well as three first senior POBA members alive.

Amongst dignitaries and POBA Members who attended the Convention include Former House of Representative Members Hon. Alphonsus Komsol, Hon. Joshua Laven Commissioner Housing Plateau State and Hon. Idris Ahmad Damagani Chairman Keffi Local Government Nasarawa State

While others are Rt. Hon. Michael Dapianlong Special Adviser to Plateau State Governor on Community Relations, Hon. Hitler Joshua Pwajok Special Adviser Youth Development Plateau State, His Royal Majesty Ngolong Ngas and the Emir of Kanam HRH. Alha. Babangida Muazu.