The year 2026 opened on a hopeful and unifying note in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State as Chief Moses Nwan, PhD, mni, Executive Private Secretary to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, launched a peace, unity, and development initiative for Pushit and Pukah Districts.
The initiative, christened Pushit and Pukah Peace and Unity Day, was held at the Mwaghavul College of Health Technology, Pushit, and drew an impressive crowd of traditional rulers, political leaders, clergy, civil servants, youths, women groups, cultural troupes, and community members from the two districts and beyond.
The gathering was widely seen as a symbolic and strategic effort to strengthen ties between Pushit and Pukah—districts with a shared history—while promoting collaboration, inclusive governance, and grassroots-driven development.
Many observers described the event as a conscious move to redefine politics in the area through cooperation and unity rather than rivalry.Throughout the programme, Chief Nwan was repeatedly acknowledged as a bridge builder and advocate of people-centred leadership.
Speakers praised his leadership style, describing it as selfless, balanced, and anchored on integrity.
They noted his ability to approach issues with fairness and clarity, stressing that his public service reflects a deep commitment to inclusion, equity, and social justice.
Community leaders and beneficiaries also recounted Chief Nwan’s long-standing involvement in empowerment and humanitarian interventions across Pushit, Pukah, and neighbouring communities since 2003.
His consistent support for widows, orphans, students, persons living with disabilities, and youths was highlighted as evidence of a leadership philosophy that prioritises people over politics and unity over division.
Delivering the keynote address, Bishop Professor Maurice Emmanuel Dafi of the Anglican Diocese of Maiduguri and Visiting Professor at Plateau State University, Bokkos, described Chief Nwan as a symbol of unity, accountability, and compassion.
He commended his record of service to humanity and urged leaders at all levels to embrace peace and unity as the foundation for sustainable development.
Chairman of the occasion, Elder Gyemu Tyoden, described the initiative as timely and necessary, especially at a period when dialogue and cohesion are critical to lasting peace in Plateau State.
He noted that Chief Nwan’s actions continue to inspire collective responsibility and community-driven progress.
In his address, Chief Moses Nwan—who holds the traditional title of Mishkagham Tong Riyang Pushit and serves as an Ambassador of AMPB United Nations World Peace and Positive Living under ECOSOC—said the initiative reflects his lifelong commitment to impacting lives, particularly the vulnerable.
He stressed that peace and unity remain essential pillars for meaningful and sustainable development.Describing himself as a politician with a difference, Chief Nwan credited Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, whom he called an advocate of unity and development, for providing the moral and political support that aligns with his vision.
He clarified that the peace initiative is not driven by personal political ambition but is intended to complement the governor’s development agenda and deepen social cohesion at the grassroots.
He cautioned against actions and narratives that breed division, urging leaders and citizens to reject discord and embrace dialogue, cooperation, and shared responsibility for the future of their communities.
Goodwill messages from prominent stakeholders further reinforced the importance of the initiative. Plateau State PDP Chairman, Chief Raymond Dabo, Alhaji Yaro Maireke, and a representative of the state’s Permanent Secretaries commended Chief Nwan’s vision and encouraged stakeholders to support the peace and unity drive for its full impact.
The event was also enlivened by cultural performances celebrating the shared heritage of Pushit and Pukah, symbolising unity, mutual respect, and collective aspiration. District heads from both communities applauded Chief Nwan’s consistent role as a unifier and called on sons and daughters of the two districts to rally behind the initiative.
Held under the theme “under one accord ” the Pushit and Pukah Peace and Unity Initiative was described by participants as more than a political engagement. Rather, it represents a shared commitment that transcends party lines, strengthens governance, and positions the communities for a stronger role in Plateau State’s development journey.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr Zechariah Kuden, urged residents of Pushit, Pukah, and the wider Plateau community to sustain the momentum through inclusivity and cooperation, describing the initiative as the beginning of a new era of hope, strength, and collective action.
