In a symbolic transition of power, the Plateau Peace Practitioners Network (PPPN) bid farewell to its outgoing president, Mr. Pwakim Jacob Choji, and welcomed Mr. Nanmak D Bali as the new president. The ceremony took place at the TEKAN headquarters in Jos, Plateau State, marking the end of Mr. Choji’s two-year term and the beginning of a new chapter for the organization.
During the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Jephta D, Chairman of the transition committee, commended the cooperation received from members and civil society groups throughout Mr. Choji’s tenure. In turn, Mr. Choji expressed gratitude to his team for their unwavering support, cooperation, and commitment during his leadership.
Reflecting on his term, Mr. Choji highlighted the significant growth and accountability achieved by the PPPN. He noted that the organization had substantially increased its financial resources, transitioning from a modest account balance to a substantial sum of over two hundred thousand naira. Among the achievements under his leadership were the proper documentation of activities, the launch of a website for the network, organization of training sessions on peace-building, initiation of dialogues among communities, and establishment of partnerships with government agencies and communities.
Acknowledging the challenges faced along the way, Mr. Choji emphasized the need to address administrative hurdles and ensure the sustainability and growth of the network. Despite these challenges, he expressed pride in the achievements of the PPPN and expressed confidence in the incoming leadership to carry forward the organization’s legacy with vision and passion.
In his inaugural address, Mr. Nanmak D Bali expressed gratitude for the support received during his campaign and inauguration. He emphasized that his victory was not just his own but a collective triumph for all who believed in the power of unity and peace. Mr. Bali pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors and work towards fostering understanding, harmony, and collaboration among diverse NGOs.
The new executive team, comprising Hajiya Maimuna Abdullahi as Vice President, Mr. Kingsley Obidah as Secretary, Mr. Pam as Assistant Secretary, and Mr. David I as Media and Publicity Officer, were administered the oath of office by Barrister Timothy Parlong.
The ceremony was attended by various special guests and stakeholders, including the Director-General of the Plateau Peace Building Agency, Dr. Julie Sanda, and the Coordinator of the TEKAN Peace Desk, Mrs. Helen Haggai. Dr. Sanda advised the new executives on the importance of partnership and coordination in peace-building efforts, emphasizing that peace-building is everyone’s responsibility.
As the PPPN ushers in a new era of leadership, members are hopeful that the organization will continue to make a lasting impact on the Plateau region and contribute to a brighter and more harmonious future for all.
count | 20
