Unity and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic nationalities in Plateau Central Senatorial Zone have been identified as key ingredients for sustainable development and progress in the region.
This formed the central message at the maiden edition of the Youth Connect and Inter-Ethnic Parley organised by the Coalition of Plateau Central Indigenous Ethnic Youths, held at the NUT Hall, LEA Primary School Bungha in Mangu Local Government Area on Sunday.
The event, which brought together youths from at least 13 ethnic groups across the five local government areas of Plateau Central, was aimed at promoting friendship, mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and cooperation among young people in the zone.
Speaking during the programme, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Bldr. Dyenmen Godwin Jipal, described the gathering as a historic initiative designed to strengthen peace, unity, and understanding among youths from different ethnic backgrounds.
According to him, the programme was also intended to serve as a platform for mentorship and the rebuilding of relationships that may have been weakened by political divisions over the years.
Jipal commended the Plateau State Government for supporting the initiative and sustaining efforts towards youth development and peaceful coexistence across the state.
“The success of this programme clearly shows that young people are ready to contribute positively to society and support purposeful leadership,” he said.
Representing the Senator for Plateau Central, Sen. Diket Satso Plang, Hon. Silas Vem praised the organisers for convening what he described as a timely and important engagement aimed at deepening unity among the people of the zone.
He noted that Plateau State was currently facing serious challenges and urged youths to move beyond complaints by taking practical steps to protect their communities and preserve their heritage.
“Unity is not negotiable for us at this point. Our diversity should be our source of strength, not weakness,” he stated.
Vem further encouraged youths to reject division and support leaders who are committed to serving the interest of the people.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Mangu Local Government Area, Hon. Emmanuel Bala Mwolpun, represented by his Deputy, Hon. Yakwen Nuhu, applauded the youths for demonstrating unity, courage, and commitment to truth.
He urged them to continue speaking with one voice, stressing that collective action would strengthen their influence and ability to drive positive change across the zone.
Delivering a lecture titled “Indigenous Dialect of Plateau Central: History of Identity and a Forge for a United Plateau,” Prof. John G. Longkat of the University of Jos cautioned youths against being swayed by monetary inducements from politicians.
He advised them to remain focused on demanding sustainable development and holding leaders accountable to their campaign promises.
“Youths must see themselves as a strong movement capable of influencing governance and defending the collective interest of their communities,” he said.
The Director General of PLASCHEMA, Dr. Humphrey Kwande Dawal, also commended the organisers for fostering peace and harmonious coexistence among youths in Plateau Central.
He used the occasion to encourage residents to embrace the Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Scheme, describing access to affordable healthcare as essential to development and productivity.
Meanwhile, Leader of the Coalition of Plateau Central Indigenous Ethnic Youth Nationalities, Amb. Fuddang Farti Ishaku, in company of Presidents of other Ethnic Youth Groups disclosed that youths across the zone had unanimously endorsed Governor Caleb Mutfwang for a second term in office.
According to him, the endorsement was based on what he described as visible infrastructural projects and developmental strides across Plateau Central, particularly road construction projects such as the Mangu–Mushere Road, Kuba Link Road, and the Amper–Dengi–Wase Road, among others.
He added that the endorsement reflected the growing unity among youths in the five local government areas of the senatorial district and their resolve to mobilise support for the governor’s re-election.
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