Opinion: As Chief Ephraim Usman emerges as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Plateau State.

Written By Gizo Jnr Kuulyidamsu

His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the executive governor of plateau state has selected men and women from amongst plateau citizens who have officially become members of his state executive council to help pilot the affairs of plateau state under his historical leadership of rebuilding and restoring the lost glory of plateau state; turning the agricultural fortunes of the state ;improving infrastructure and above all uniting the people of the state for peaceful coexistence.

As a governor with the iconic mantra of “Green Revolution” or in some sense, the land is green. Plateau people are in very high expectations that the men and women that the governor has chosen in the exercise of his constitutional authority, will be those who would be devoted and dedicated to their manifestos of both the governor which he has been preaching right from the time of campaigns up to now and the blue print for the rapid development of the state as captured in his mission statement.

Reactions have trailed the selection of these persons some of whom are technocrats, politicians and statesmen and patriotic plateau citizens. Some observers have expressed some reservations on the competence of these persons so appointed as commissioners.
But in a world of ever-evolving complexities, leadership becomes an art of transcending boundaries and excelling in diverse fields. Such is the narrative of Chief hon. Ephraim Usman JP, a complete gentleman and a distinguished comrade and a philantropist to the core whose contributions to the growth of unionism, community development, philantropism and his passion for local government and chieftaincy reforms have carved an indelible mark on the landscape of plateau sociopolitical discourse.

Born on the 11th february, 1978 to the family of Baba Usman, at the mesmerizing village of Gar, In Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State. Chief Ephraim’s journey through life has been one of unwavering dedication and commitment.
His educational voyage started at local government education authourity (LGEA)Khingyal ,Kanam local government, where the foundations of his intellectual prowess were laid. This early exposure to education ignited a thirst for knowledge and excellence that would guide him throughout his life.

Following his primary education, chief Ephraim Usman continued his academic pursuit at government college Pankshin. Ephraim was later enrolled at the Plateau state polytechnic to study. It was here he honed his critical thinking and leadership skills. His time and unionism at the tertiary level of academics nurtured his qualities that would later define his political career : integrity; empathy and commitment to service. It was during these formative years that the seeds of commitment to community development and youth empowerment and works of philantropism were sown within him.

Chief Ephraim Usman’s academic journey culminated at the Nassarawa State University Keffi, where he obtained a Masters Degree in Management.
These achievements showcased his dedication to academic excellence and pursuit of knowledge, qualities that would serve him well in his subsequent endeavors. From a local government staff, University of Jos staff, he transitioned into the corridors of secular politics, a realm where his impact has been profound. He contested for the seat of House of Representatives to represent the good people of Pankshin,Kanam and Kanke federal constituency and gave a good fight. Chief Ephraim’s political trajectory underscores his dedication to serving his constituents and advancing the interest of the state. His leadership roles as the National President of Plateau state Students, (NAPSS), and a traditional title holder, the GARKUWAN BAGINTO (which literally translate as the SHIELD OF BAGINTO PEOPLE ) ,demonstrates his strategic acumen and ability to navigate complex issues.

Amid his political engagements, Chief Ephraim remained deeply committed to community development. His Agricultural initiatives,ranging from arable and livestock production on numerous farms to his foundation’s work in supporting orphans,people living with disabilities and less privileged, showcase his diverse approach to addressing societal challenges. This blend of political prowess and community -Oriented projects echoes his holistic Approach to improving lives.
However, one aspect of Chief Ephraim’s multifaceted character that stands out prominently is his fervor for local government transformation agender and traditional institution’s reform that has been intrinsic part of his journey as a traditional title holder and a community developer. Far from the scepticism expressed by some quarters, his passion for the local government reform and transformation agenda and the uplifting of the traditional council is undeniable.
From promoting local government administration reforms to advocating traditional system upgrade, infrastructural development and robust human capital investment, his long vision for the local government and the traditional institution transcends his political journey.

Contrary to cynism, Ephraim has been a constant advocate for the reform of the local government and chieftaincy issues in the state. It is not surprising, then,that his appointment as the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs by Governor Mutfwang is a long – standing dedication to this realm. The appointment of GARKUWAN BAGINTO to head this ministry is a strategic move that showcases the governor’s recognition of the need for specialized attention to local government and chieftaincy affairs during his time.

Chief Ephraim’s commitment to the growth of the traditional institution over the years has been demonstrated by the title he holds and several advocacy, initiatives and involvements in local government and traditional insttutions-related matters.This proves that he possesses the dedication and insight needed to drive the growth of the ministry.

Therefore, the appointment of Garkuwan Baginto highlights the recognition of the multifaceted nature of local government and chieftaincy affairs administration and development. His extensive experience in local government administration, community engagements, and traditional institution’s policy advocacy equips him with the necessary tools to adddress the challenges facing the ministry. By focusing on policy formulations, reforms, strategic planing and fostering collaborations within the two institution’s, chief Ephraim has the potential to ignite a new Era of development in the ministry.

The Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Plateau State has witnessed first hand the impact of a leader who care about its development, irrespective of his professional background. In his role as commissioner, Ephraim is poised to leverage his extensive experience in politics, community development, philanthropist work, and his quest for development and growth and his love for plateau to uplift the ministry. His appointment is not a gamble but a conscious choice rooted in trust,competence and capacity to deliver results.

Change, innovation and progress are often spearheaded by individuals who challenge conventional norms. Chief Ephraim’s journey from local government to university of Jos where he served as a staff,community developer,philantropist to political leadership embodies this spirit.
As he Kickstarts his reign having returned from a week- long leadership and administrative retreat,his legacy as a beacon of hope for the ministry for local government and chieftaincy affairs is poised to flourish. It is a testament to the fact that dedication, passion, and a clear vision can pave the way for transformative change,and chief Ephraim is undoubtedly at the helm of such change.

The cynicism surrounding his appointment while understandable given the historical context, should not overshadow the potential for positive transformation that chief Ephraim brings. As he steps into this new demanding role,there is an opportunity for him to harness his experience, passion and strategic thinking to elevate the ministry to new heights. Diversifying leadership backgrounds, as long as they are accompanied by genuine dedication and vision,can catalyze progress.
In the end, Chief Ephraim Usman’s journey from a small village of Gar at the entrance to Dengi, the headquarters of Kanam local government to the apex of plateau state local government and chieftaincy affairs is a testament to the power of passion,dedication, and visionary leadership.

His appointment is a call to reevaluate the criteria for effective leadership and to embrace the potential of individuals who may not fit traditional molds but have a commitment and drive to make a difference. In this light, the future of plateau state ministry for local government and chieftaincy affairs looks brighter than ever before. under the stewardship of a vibrant young man who has consistently proven his role for the state and it’s people .

As the curtains rise on this new chapter in plateau state ministry for local government and chieftaincy affairs, the stage is set for chief Ephraim to prove his mettle. In his hands the opportunity to reshape the local government and traditional landscape, infuse fresh ideas and energy into the sector, and inspire a generation of administrators in both the local government and our respective traditional councils.

As Chief Ephraim assumes his role,the state watches with anticipation, hoping to witness the transformation of the ministry under his guidance. With his track record of service, dedication and passion, there is everything to believe that his tenure will usher in a new Era of progress,stability, growth and excellence in plateau local governments and traditional councils.

Finally my plea is that the commissioner provide greater leadership for stakeholders in the public and private sectors to articulate a template for reviving interest in the local government work including the essential need to develop the local governments with
infrastructures and enhance its capacity.