23/09/2023
A PARADIGM SHIFT IN LEGISLATION WITH HON. AMB. DEWAN KUDANGBENA GABRIEL MEMBER REPRESENTING PANKSHIN NORTH IN PLATEAU STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY; 100 DAYS SO FAR.
PREAMBLE
To mark his 100 days in office, Hon. Amb Dewan K. Gabriel, the member representing Pankshin North in the 10th Assembly in Plateau State married to his amiable wife Mrs. Dewan K. Poritmwa, has showcased his capability in fulfilling his campaign promises to his constituents. As a member on the platform of the Young People’s Party (YPP), he became the Minority Whip of the House of Assembly and the youngest legislator, he has made significant contributions in various areas, leaving a positive impact on the lives of the people he represents.
One of the notable achievements of Hon Amb Dewan is his commitment to community and humanitarian services. He has actively engaged in initiatives that aim to uplift the welfare of the people, ensuring that their needs are met and their voices are heard.
Additionally, he has prioritized education by providing scholarship interventions to deserving students in his constituency. This has not only encouraged academic excellence but has also given hope to young individuals who aspire to achieve their educational goals.
Hon. Dewan has also made efforts to improve social amenities in his constituency. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, he has facilitated the provision of basic amenities that enhance the quality of life for the people, such as improved access to clean water, electricity, and healthcare facilities.
Furthermore, he has diligently carried out his primary responsibility as a legislator. Dewan has been actively involved in legislative duties, proposing and supporting bills that address the needs and concerns of his constituents. He has demonstrated a commitment to effective representation and has brought about a positive change in the legislative processes, even in the face of limited resources.
In summary, Hon. Amb Dewan K. Gabriel's activities during his first 100 days in office have been commendable. He has shown dedication, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of the people he serves. His achievements serve as a testament to his commitment to upholding the trust placed in him by his constituents but for records, his interventions are categorised and explained below.
AREAS OF HIS INTERVENTION.
✓LEGISLATIVE DUTIES AND BILLS
Hon Dewan, as a legislator, has been actively fulfilling his legislative duties by contributing to various motions and bills. Here are the details of his contributions:
A. Motion for immediate concern:
I. Hon Dewan revisited a topic that was previously initiated by past legislatures, which is the need to ban open grazing and implement the establishment of cattle ranches. This motion aims to address the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, providing an alternative solution to mitigate such clashes.
II. Furthermore, he submitted a motion urging the state government, specifically the Plateau State Emergency Management (PLASEMA), to provide assistance and support to constituents affected by a whirlwind and rainstorm. This demonstrates his commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of the affected individuals.
III. Additionally, Hon Dewan presented a motion highlighting the importance of road construction in Pankshin North of Plateau State. The objective of this motion is to facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce and other essential goods, thereby augmenting the livelihoods of farmers in the area.
B. Bills in progress:
Apart from actively participating in motions, Hon Dewan has also undertaken the responsibility of drafting and advocating for bills. While the specific details of the bills in progress can not be mentioned to the public, the bills signify his legislative commitment to initiate legal reforms or introduce new laws that address critical issues or concerns within the jurisdiction.
✓SOCIAL AMENITIES
In the realm of social amenities, Hon Dewan has also shown his support to his constituents in various ways:
I. Provision of boreholes:
Hon Dewan facilitated the drilling of eight boreholes in Wokkos, Pankshin Central, and Fer wards. These boreholes were strategically located in communities such as Mantom, Dikal, Gille, Dakup, Kromlu, Tingpol, Chanchet, and Tintul. This initiative aims to enhance access to clean and reliable water supply in these areas, thereby improving the overall well-being of the communities.
II. Restoration of electricity:
Recognizing the importance of a reliable electricity supply, Hon Dewan intervened in Pankshin communities that experienced total blackouts. Through his efforts, a spoiled transformer was repaired or replaced, allowing the restoration of electricity in these neighbourhoods. This move undoubtedly improved the living conditions and provided much-needed comfort to the affected residents.
✓SCHOLARSHIP INTERVENTIONS.
His scholarship interventions go through primary to tertiary institutions in his quest to promote educational opportunities for his constituents. The details are captured below:
I. University Scholarships:
Hon Dewan has provided full-time scholarships to sixteen (16) science students from his constituency who are pursuing their education at the university level. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers and enable talented students to excel in their chosen fields of study.
II. College of Education:
In addition, Hon Dewan has awarded full-time scholarships to eight (8) students from his constituency who are studying at colleges of education. By supporting these aspiring educators, he is promoting the importance of quality teaching and investing in the future of education.
III. Secondary School:
Recognizing the need to support vulnerable students who are mostly orphans or those displaced as a result of conflict, Hon Dewan has extended scholarship opportunities to over 200 students from different secondary schools. This program covers students from Junior Secondary School 1 (entry year) to Senior Secondary School 3 (graduation year). The majority of beneficiaries are orphaned or come from disadvantaged backgrounds. This intervention not only facilitates their education but also provides them with a pathway for a brighter future.
IV. Partial Fee Payment:
Hon Dewan believes in the importance of education at all levels. Hence, he has assisted numerous individuals by providing partial payment of school fees, ranging from primary school to tertiary institutions. By doing so, he has helped alleviate the financial burden faced by students and their families, ensuring access to quality education.
✓SKILLS ACQUISITION AND EMPOWERMENT
To promote self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship, he has implemented various initiatives in this area:
I. Development/Production of Agrochemicals:
Hon Dewan has allocated resources to train more than 100 constituents in the development and production of agrochemicals. By equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge, he aims to enhance agricultural productivity and provide opportunities for self-employment. Each trainee also receives the necessary support and guidance to start their own agrochemical business, thereby fostering economic growth within the community.
II. Entrepreneurial Support:
Hon Dewan assists both aspiring and existing entrepreneurs in his entrepreneurship. This support encompasses various sectors, ranging from small-scale peasant farming to more extensive businesses. Through his financial aid, mentorship programs, and capacity-building initiatives, he empowers individuals to establish and expand their businesses. By promoting entrepreneurship drive and economic sustainability.
✓HUMANITARIAN SERVICES
Hon Dewan's involvement in offsetting hospital bills for constituents and beyond has placed him differently in his approach to constituency engagement. More so, he has provided palliatives to crisis-displaced persons who are finding refuge within his constituency as he visits them from time to time.
Going beyond to assist others is a commendable example of humanitarian service and a display of leadership prowess in the face of scarce and limited available resources. By covering medical expenses, he is directly contributing to the well-being and health of individuals in need. This act of kindness and support helps alleviate the financial burden that can often accompany medical treatments.
Hon Dewan's commitment to helping his constituents goes beyond the scope of his typical responsibilities. By going the extra mile and extending assistance beyond his immediate constituency, he is demonstrating a genuine concern for the welfare of others. This type of humanitarian service is crucial in ensuring that individuals have access to necessary medical care, regardless of their financial circumstances.
By providing financial relief for hospital bills, Hon Dewan is essentially promoting equal access to healthcare. This not only benefits the individuals directly receiving assistance but also contributes to a more equitable and just society. It helps prevent medical debt and ensures that healthcare resources are available to those who need them the most.
Hon Dewan's efforts serve as an inspiration for others to engage in similar acts of compassion and support. By using his position and resources to assist with hospital bills, he is setting an example for fellow politicians and community members to prioritize the well-being of their fellow citizens. This serves as a reminder that humanitarian service is not defined solely by political duties but also by the willingness to go above and beyond to help others in need.
✓COMMUNITY SERVICE
Hon Dewan understands the plight of the common man as he is from such a humble background with everything, he has to the credit of destiny helpers and Mentors. This has always endeared him to his community and with varying interventions from his leadership dexterity. Here are some of his interventions:
I. Peace Mediation with Nigerian Correctional Centre in Pankshin and Constituents:
Hon Dewan has played a role as a mediator between the constituents and the Nigerian Correctional Centre, specifically the Pankshin, Jos division, and the National Headquarters office in Abuja. It suggests that Hon Dewan has acted as a representative to ensure a peaceful resolution between the community and the correctional centre.
II. Fencing of the Pankshin Correctional Facility:
Hon Dewan has initiated and supported the construction of a fence around the Pankshin Correctional Facility. This intervention is aimed at enhancing security measures and improving the overall infrastructure of the facility.
III. Mediation for Reopening of Sauke-Wokkos Road:
Hon Dewan has played a mediating role in resolving issues related to the closure of the Sauke-Wokkos road. This road is vital for connecting his constituents to the market to sell their agricultural produce. By facilitating the reopening of the road, Hon Dewan has worked towards ensuring better market access for the farmers in the community.
IV. Release of Inmates:
Hon Dewan has personally facilitated and covered the release fees for four (4) inmates. This action demonstrates his commitment to assisting individuals within the correctional system and supporting their reintegration into society.
✓SUMMARY OF DEWAN'S STERLING LEADERSHIP
Hon Dewan's dedication to addressing legislative concerns, supporting social amenities, and actively engaging with his constituents showcases his commitment to serving the people and working towards their overall development and well-being.
Overall, Hon Dewan's scholarship interventions and skill acquisition training initiatives demonstrate his dedication to education, empowerment, and community development. By investing in both academic pursuits and practical skills, he is actively contributing to the growth and well-being of individuals in his constituency.
Overall, Hon Dewan's contributions in offsetting hospital bills for his constituents and beyond highlight the power of humanitarian service in improving the lives of individuals and fostering a more compassionate society. His actions serve as a reminder of the importance of empathy, support, and solidarity in building a better future for all.
Hon Dewan’s approach to community service activities is second to none and has highlighted his involvement in various areas, including conflict resolution, infrastructure development, facilitating access to markets, and supporting individuals within the correctional system.
In 100 days of sterling performance, and the understanding of where he comes from plus the confidence bestowed upon him by his constituents in the face of the limited available resources, above as explained and summarized is the man called “Dewan K. Gabriel” through the unwavering support of his better-half, her eminence, Mrs. Dewan K. Poritmwa.
23rd September, 2023
