Lalong pledges transparency in governance

GOVERNOR Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State has said that he will soon connect with the citizens of the state through a live broadcast session towards have first-hand knowledge of the impression of his stewardship.

He disclosed this while receiving a delegation of Catholic Laity Council of Shendam and Pankshin Local Government Councils led by Boniface Gwotbit at the New Government House, Little Rayfield Jos.

Lalong said that his government was open to corrections and constructive criticisms in his quest at demonstrating transparency and delivering on the change he promised.

He called on the citizens to support his determination to strengthen the peace building structures of the state, stressing that such is critical to the success of government policies of boosting the economy.

Gwotbit had earlier encouraged the governor to pay greater attention to the education and health sectors as well as to ensure that he is a leader to everyone irrespective of tribe or religion.

Meanwhile, plans are underway to develop the Rotary District Peace Centre in Jos to be the first Rotary International Peace Centre in Africa.

Rotary International District Governor 9125, Michael Olufemi Omotosho, disclosed this when he led other Rotarians on a courtesy visit to Lalong at the Government House in Jos.

Also at the Government House was the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonathan Richardson, who was in the state in a bid strengthen bilateral relations with Plateau.

Omotosho said that his visit to Jos was necessary being part of the programme to mark the World International Humanitarian Day, which he said, is synonymous with the cardinal principles of the organisation, which centres on caring for the less privileged and bringing succour to the people.

He disclosed that plans were underway to develop the Jos Peace Centre, which is part of the Seven Districts covering 22 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja as an international peace centre in Africa.

Omotosho commended President Muhammadu Buhari’s principles of change, saying that it is simple, but yet complex, adding that the Rotary’s Four–Way Test can serve as a guiding principle to ensure he succeeds.

He encouraged Lalong to introduce members of his executive to the organisation considering its numerous advantages and the fact that he is a Paul Harris Fellow of the organisation. (Paul Harris was the founder of the Rotary International.)

Responding, Lalong praised the exploits of the Rotary International, affirming that the Four–Way Test of truth, faith, goodwill, friendship and emphasis on the need for decisions to the benefit of all concerned has been his guiding principle since he became a Rotarian.

The governor assured the organisation of his government’s continued support while affirming his humanitarian services worldwide.