JOS EAST: THE RISING STAR UNDER GOV. MUTFWANG
When the story of Plateau’s rebirth is written, one Local Government will stand tall as the shining example of loyalty, vision, and results — Jos East, under the leadership of Hon. Markus Usaini Nyam.
From the moment he assumed office, Chairman Nyam made it clear: Jos East would not be left behind in Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s "The Time is Now" transformation agenda. Today, his bold and compassionate leadership has propelled the council into the spotlight as one of Plateau’s fastest-rising LGAs.
Once plagued by economic neglect, Jos East has undergone a remarkable turnaround. In under 100 days, Chairman Nyam delivered two modern markets at Mai-Juju and Anquari — now thriving centers of trade where farmers and traders engage in booming weekly commerce. These markets are not only revitalizing local business but significantly boosting the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the council, making Jos East more financially independent and resilient.
Understanding that agriculture cannot thrive without access to markets, Nyam aligned swiftly with Governor Mutfwang’s rural development blueprint. Through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), critical roads such as Gada to Maigemu, Dorong, Jankasa Junction, and Gangara are undergoing rehabilitation. These roads are now the lifelines of local commerce, linking isolated communities to the mainstream economy and breaking decades of infrastructural exclusion.
Jos East once battled some of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the state. Chairman Nyam declared this unacceptable — and acted. In partnership with the Governor’s health initiatives, his administration expanded healthcare services, creating over 60 new bed spaces and distributing safe delivery kits to expectant mothers. Today, women walk into health centers with hope, not fear — and children are born into a brighter, healthier future.
Where there is peace, development follows. Under Nyam, security in Jos East has improved dramatically, thanks to partnerships with security agencies, traditional rulers, and youth organizations. Communities are now enjoying peace and stability. His administration’s recent distribution of 10 motorcycles to both conventional and non-conventional security operatives has further enhanced surveillance and emergency response across the LGA.
Chairman Nyam’s commitment to human-centered governance recently earned him recognition from the Plateau State Commission of Women Affairs and Social Development for his unwavering support to vulnerable groups in the community. Widows received rappers, the elderly were given cash gifts, and his birthday celebration became an opportunity to extend compassion and empower others.
His 49th birthday was marked not by extravagance, but by giving. As part of the celebration: 10 motorcycles were distributed to security personnel and PDP ward chairmen, including Sharon Kat. Celebrations included a well-attended event where dignitaries, including Senator Simon Watkom, Chris Hassan, Silas, and Nuhu Abok, all commended Nyam’s visionary leadership.
From the former Minority Leader Senator Simon Watkom to Reverend Isaac Wekili, voices across Plateau have praised the administration’s efforts in delivering the dividends of democracy at the grassroots level. Their commendations reflect the growing consensus that Jos East is on the rise — not just in statistics, but in spirit.
Chairman Nyam continues to emphasize that education is the key to sustainable development. He remains committed to policies that empower the youth and secure the future of Jos East.
"By the grace of God, education is the key to every developmental community. Will you shy away from developing the younger ones, not especially?"
— Hon. Markus Usaini Nyam
From bustling markets to rehabilitated roads, from modern hospitals to peaceful communities — Jos East is no longer a forgotten council. It is a rising star in Governor Mutfwang’s galaxy of progress. And the people know it. In every village, every market, and every farm road, one message echoes:
"With Mutfwang and Nyam, the Time is Now — and the future is bright!"
