Prof. Ada's Development agenda for Kwande
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Michael Atovigba
Apr 1, 2016, 11:46:41 AM4/1/16
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Being Excerpts of Guest’s Speech at the Occasion of Shangev-Ya
National Day celebration/Fund raising for ICT Project held at SCSS
Koti Shangev –Ya, Kwande Local Governemnt Area, March, 28th, 2016 By
PROFESSOR NICHOLAS AKISE ADA, MSTAN, FCAI, Professor of Science
Education, Benue State University Makurdi, Nigeria, & Immediate past
Minister of State1 Foreign Affairs
Introduction
I feel highly honoured to have been invited to speak at this occasion.
As Guest Speaker, I was not asked to speak on a specific topic. I am
aware of the fact that this celebration is rooted in Shangev Ya. Most
people will therefore speak to Shangev Ya on issues that affect
Shangev Ya directly. However, it will make more sense to speak to
Kwande people directly, using Shangev Ya as a venue.
I therefore decided to speak on the topic “Needed: A Development
Agenda for Kwande; Antidote for Peace, Unity and Development” The
choice of this topic is based on the fact that the quantum of
political activities in the country vis-a-vis the political terrain in
Kwande now more than ever before, calls for a speech that will create
awareness in the minds of our people, the need to embrace peace and
unity which are catalysts for development. For peace and unity to
prevail, there must be an agenda to be systematically followed and
executed as a basis to guide the actors. It is therefore appropriate
that my speech at this occasion should re-echo peace, unity and
development. This is a justification for the choice of my speech
I understand the agenda of the present Ter Kwande, His Royal Highness,
Chief Hilary Ikima, Ter Kwande III is hinged on “peace, unity, and
development”. Essential Facts about Kwande Local Government
Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) was created in 1976 with Adikpo as
its headquarters. Kwande is bounded by several other LGAs. On the
west, it is bounded by Vandeikya Local Government, Ushongo LGA on the
north, and Katsina-Ala LGA on the Northwest. On the South, it is
bounded by Cross Rivers State and in the east by the Republic of
Cameroon. Kwande LGA also shares a common border with Takum LGA of
Taraba State. It has a population of 248,697 (2006 population census)
with a landmass of 2,891 square kilometers. Kwande has four major
districts namely: Ikyurav-Ya, Nanev, Shangev-Ya and Turan. There are
altogether fifteen council wards namely:
Adikpo Township, Liev I, Live II, Mbadura, Mbakyor, Mbagba-Mbakyan,
Mbayoor, Mbaketsa, Menev, Moon, Tondov I, Tondov II, Yaav, Kumakwagh,
Usar.
As a result of its mountainous nature and proximity to the Cameroonian
range of mountains, Kwande Local Government usually has cold weather
which makes it very conducive to traders and investors. The local
government also has very big rivers (Amile Utamen and Amile Kpa) which
could adequately take care of agricultural and industrial needs.
Food and cash crops grown in Kwande include yam, rice, beans, millet
and palm trees. Other crops like vegetables, pepper, tomatoes, garden
eggs, ginger are produced in large quantity and attract traders from
far to buy in large quantities to other towns and cities. Rice and
peanuts are also produced in commercial quantity and these provide
opportunities for investment in the rice milling and groundnut
processing small scale industries.
The strategic location of Kwande Local Government on a Trunk 'A'
Federal road that runs from the North through Adikpo to the extreme
South has made it easy for both traders and transporters to shift
their goods from and to Adikpo with little or no problem.
EDUCATION
This is the biggest industry in Kwande patronized by virtually everyone.
Early self pioneer efforts by the indigenes of Kwande made in
education resulted in the establishment of TIV Community College
later on, Adikpo Community College (ACC) with late Ako Zungweh as
Proprietor, with Pius Unongo as Manager. Pius Unongo later established
Christ the King College (KCC) Adikpo. These early schools went through
traumatic experiences. Later on, the efforts of various individuals
and communities resulted in the establishment of other schools namely;
Mbagba Community College, Usar Trade Centre, Tseikpa Memorial College,
G. I. Kajo Comprehensive Secondary School, all these within Adikpo.
Outside Adikpo township we had Div Comprehensive Secondary School in
Turan.
Missionary efforts also saw the establishment of schools. The notable
ones were Saint Andrew's Secondary School, Adikpo (SASSA),
Peter- Bulter later NKST Secondary School, Adikpo. None of these
schools is sited in Shange-Ya.
These schools provided the platform for the emergence of educated
elite of Kwande who acquired early education within the Local
Government. A good number of Kwande sons occupying various positions
in the society today are products of these institutions. The current
school statistics in Kwande show that there are 191 UBE-JSS controlled
by Benue State Universal Basic Education Board. There are 36
secondary schools attached to these public primary schools.
In order to appreciate the magnitude of the impact of the education
on the lives of Kwande people, it might be appropriate at this
juncture, to take a look at the educational establishments,
particularly at the post-primary school level in Kwande. The following
picture of educational establishments in Kwande Local Government Area,
showing ownership structure is presented.
It should be noted that government has a responsibility to provide for
the education of its citizenry. The picture of schools in Kwande in
terms of ownership speaks for itself.
Schools owned by NKST Missionaries (Eight in number): NKST Secondary
School Adikpo, NKST Secondary School Chol, NKST Secondary School Jato
Aka, NKST Secondary School Achia, NKST Secondary School Jaki, NKST
Secondary School Adagi, NKST Secondary School Ikyogen, NKST Secondary
School Ugugu.
Schools owned by Catholic Missionaries (Five in number): St. Andrews
Secondary School Adikpo, St. Mary's Secondary School Adikpo, St.
Michael Secondary School Jato-Aka, St. Francis Secondary School
Ikyogen, Holy Trinity Secondary School Adagi.
Self Proprietory Schools (Twenty two in number): Adikpo Comprehensive
College Adikpo, G.I. Kajo Comprehensive College Adikpo, Christ the
King College Adikpo, Madonna High School Adagi, Landmark Model College
Adikpo, Tse-Ikpa Comprehensive College Adikpo, Agbuul Memorial
Secondary School Adikpo, Wantor Model School Adikpo, Sacred Heart
Secondary School Adikpo, Philohans Secondary School TichaMbangongh,
Yachiga Model School Jato-Aka, Mbahula Model School Ada, Ikpila Iorzua
Model School Atsenga, Suranto Model College Koti, Shimo Technical
College Ikyogen, New Jerusalem College Nambe, Igbadoo Model College
Gyon, Abanshi Comprehensive College Gbe, Barakur Peoples comprehensive
school Ichol, Agbuul Model School Boagundu, Mbalumun Community
Secondary School Agishi, Korinjo Memorial College.
Government owned Schools (Four in number):
Government Secondary School Koti, Government Secondary School Anwase,
Government Secondary School Kachi, Government Day Secondary School
Jato-Aka
Schools owned by Communities (Eight in number)
Saaior Community Secondary School Ada, Ikyurav-ya Community Secondary
School Ikyogen, Shangev –ya Community Secondary School Koti, Ajio
Community Secondary School Ajio, Mbagba Community Secondary School
Adikpo, Usar Technical College Adikpo, Maav Community Secondary School
Nyihemba, Moon Community Secondary School Anyiase.
Data Analysis:
Government Owned Schools (4 in number or 8%), Missionaries Owned
Schools (13 in number or 27%) , Self Proprietory Schools (22 in number
or 46%) , Community Owned Schools (9 in number or 19%): Total, 48
schools (or 100%).
It is very clear from this table that the efforts of the Community in
the provision of Education to Kwande people outweigh the efforts of
government. With these facts about Kwande in terms of schools and
economic potentials of the Local Government, the following question
beg for an urgent answer.
What has Education offered for us?
Education is expected to produce people of very sound knowledge,
people that have acquired appropriate skills and also have been
equipped with acceptable attitudes that will make them useful not only
to themselves but also to the society which they belong. One therefore
expects educated Kwande people to embrace peace, unity to foster
development. Education in Kwande has produced for us an Academic Team
which I call 'Kwande Academicals' which can be sent to represent
Kwande at any academic competition across the globe and indeed this
team is out there. Kwande people have been waiting for this team to
bring home laurels for celebration. The team; like a football team,
comprises the following: Professor Daniel I. Denga - (Captain),
Professor Mrs. Hanna Denga, Professor D. V. Uza, Professor Akpenpuun
Dzurgba, Professor J. O. I. Ayatse, Professor Paul Annune, Professor
N. A. Ada, Professor Terfa Ortese, Professor Ambrose Lyam , Professor
Batur Gbenda-Laha, Professor J. A. Sambe, Professor Zanzan Uji,
Professor Fidelis A Ayatse, Prof Akaa Imbwaseh, Professor D. A.
Aboho.
Those on loan are: Professor Charity Angya, Professor Nancy Agbe,
Those on reserve list are Associate Professors PhD holders and are as
follows: Dr. Joseph Kur, Dr. Akombor Ande Akombor, Dr. L. I. Zaria,
Dr. S. Ubwa, Dr. I. Tsegba e.t.c
With this formidable team, Kwande Academicals can certainly perform
and achieve. Kwande people, however, need Objectively Verifiable
Indicators (OVI) of the achievement of this team.
Political Team
On the political scene, Kwande Local Government has produced the likes
of Paul Unongo, Hon. Liambee Shande, Hon. Akuha Tor Gbande, Hon.
Nyaga, Hon. V.T. Uji, Hon. Charles Avur, Hon. Terwase Orbunde, Hon.
Kwaghbula, Hon. Wende, Hon. Col. Aboho, Hon. Col. Basil Kwembeh, Mr.
Adaa Maagbe, Hon. B.B. Nungwa, Hon John Akpereshi, Bob Tyough, Hon
Hemba etc.
The political leadership at the local government council has passed
through several people both indigenes and non-indigenes of Kwande. Let
me however restrict myself to only the elected Chairmen who are all
sons of Kwande:
Mr. Aper Aku (First elected Chairman), Hon. Denis Buter (1988-1989),
Hon Akombor Ande Akombor (1991-1993), Hon. Agboughul Kachi
(1996-1997), Hon. Boniface Ukende (1997-1998), Hon. Denis Dzeka, Hon.
Terlumun Akputu, Hon. Bem Tseen (7th current Chairman). Who is NEXT
and When???
Other Areas of Human Endeavour
Kwande sons and daughters have made contributions in the provision of
goods and services for the upliftment of the name of kwande.
Entrepreneurship, Education, Hospitality, Transport, Textile, Health
care delivery, etc. Notable in these areas include our sons such as
Wantaregh Paul Unongo of JULADACO Group of Companies, MD and Chief
Executive of Pleasure Travels, Paul Orkuma Ubwa, Dr. D. Iordaa, MD/CEO
Water First, the Late Sunda Yongo of Yongo Hotels and Tourism, Mr.
Francis Gbaden Jam (hospitality and Education), Late Matthew Icheen of
Icheen Pharmacy, The Late Hilehongo Anenda, Late Gbeda Tar Shande,
Late A.A. Mnenga, Mr. Titus Tiza Humbe, Late Chief Hon. Samuel
Agbughul Kachi, Late G.I. Kajo, Late Pius Unongo, Late Pever Tseikpa,
Late Ifan Dzurgba in the area of textile and a host of others.
WHAT HAS GONE WRONG?
With all these formidable teams in virtually all areas of development
what has gone wrong? The answer lies with the leadership. Yes the
leadership is critical and crucial however in a football match, it is
not only the coach who is the leader that accounts for the success of
the team.
The people of Kwande may however, note that the challenge of
achievement of a football team rests on a number of factors such as
the nature of the football pitch, the spectators and the weather of
the venue where the match is played.
Kwande once demonstrated her leadership in Tiv in virtually all
spheres of human endeavour. Indeed history has it that the Tiv people
entered their present land through the mountain ranges of the Cameroon
arriving from Swem-Kalagbe in the lofty mountain chain of Jato-Aka in
Kwande Local Government.
Denga (2013) has captured vividly cultural leadership of Kwande
expressed in the following: Kwande has acted as leaders or precursors
in making traditional dresses (the assorted and variegated cargo of
“zebra” cloths used by the global award dancing group that magnify the
Tiv name. The scintillating muscle movement of the dancers is greatly
accentuated by the beautiful colours of the attire. The “hambingers”
and “precursors” of these assorted traditional dresses which enhance
cultural efficacy are from Dzurgba Village near Adikpo “London”-
Kwande.
The question is 'What is the nature of the entire Kwande as a football pitch?'
It is argued that the Kwande pitch is water-logged, and therefore, the
arena is slippery, unfriendly, unattractive, unfavourable, and
insecure for even the sons of Kwande and their collaborators to embark
on development projects that may impact positively on the lives of
Kwande people. One of the possible answers lies in the fact that
Kwande is still in search of a leader that will draw up an agenda for
peace, unity and development and execute it to the latter.
Consequently, there is lack of coordinated centre that will hold the
people of Kwande. There is no single common thread which runs through
Kwande as our people are so divided. Several reasons have been adduced
for this viz: Political differences , Insecurity , Hatred, Jealousy ,
Envy , Intolerance , Selfishness , Arrogance , Mischief , Pull him
down syndrome.
Development Agenda for Kwande
I challenge Kwande sons and daughters to embark on a journey of
development of Kwande. In line with the transformation agenda of the
present administration, it will not be an over-ambition to see the
following emerge from Kwande:
1. There should be at least 20 Kwande companies competing favourably
in the delivery of quality goods and efficient services with the first
20 ECONOMIES in Benue State and the Country;
It means for example having: Kwande construction companies, Kwande air
lines, Kwande textiles industries, Kwande communication companies,
Kwande metallurgical companies, Kwande pharmaceutical companies,
Kwande oil and gas companies, Kwande banking companies, Kwande
tourist companies, Kwande consulting firms, Kwande automobile
companies and other similar companies (20 of them).
This also implies that Kwande should be able to compete favourably in
the businesses of these companies across the State, the Nation and the
Globe;
Kwande must also create history with major breakthrough in science and
technology which should be used both domestically and internationally.
Kwande has suffered a great set back. Our hard earned reputation in
all aspects has gone down the drain. Kwande has been economically
destroyed, politically bastardized, socially manned, educationally
thwarted and security wise endangered. Furthermore our leaders are so
divided pursuant of personal agenda. There are conflicts of interest
among our youths. Youths are sponsored by opportunists to destroy
lives and property. How can development be effected in an environment
of chaos, mistrust, disrespect and blatant manipulation? We need a
leader with an agenda here and now or never. Kwande needs friends,
trusted friends who will share in our plight and assist us. Where can
we look for that kind of friend?
Economic Paralysis of Kwande
Economic stability is a necessary condition for other forms of
stability such as political stability. Unfortunately Kwande has
suffered economic paralysis. Economic activities in Kwande Local
Government have suffered a big setback. The absence of a commercial
bank in Adikpo London, the only London in Africa without a bank, has
scared prospective investors from carrying out commercial transactions
that involve huge sums of money due to security threats. With the
introduction of the present cashless society being practiced in
Nigeria, Kwande Local Government stands completely alienated. I
remember African Continental Bank Adikpo (ACB), Nanev Community Bank
Adikpo, Shangev Ya Community Bank Koti. Where are these financial
institutions? Can we call this development?
I therefore call on the present Local Government Administration in
Kwande to invest in all the processes leading to the establishment of
a commercial bank in Adikpo.
Recommendations of what is possible and can be done.
In order to implement the development agenda for Kwande: There is need
for atmosphere devoid of insecurity and political instability; Our
traditional rulers have a big role to play by uniting the people, Our
political and religious leaders must show commitment and sincerity of
purpose in what they do; else, such a monumental change for Kwande
cannot occur.
Let me recognize and appreciate the efforts of Professor D.V. Uza who
has instituted a foundation aimed at developing Kwande. Through his
foundation, Kwande youths and the aged are assisted through a
systematic scholarship scheme. This is a fantastic effort and path to
development. I also recall the efforts of Professor D.V. Uza in
ensuring that peace return to Kwande at our most difficult time when
Kwande was on fire.
Leaders who occupy positions of responsibility must be supported,
irrespective of previous positions held by other people at various
times in the life and history of Kwande. There can never be parallel
government at any given point in time.
Each Kwande son and daughter must be given opportunity to aspire for
any given position as there are no designated sons of Kwande for
permanent positions. If this happens, there will be peace, unity and
everybody will have the opportunity to demonstrate his ability to make
contributions to the development of Kwande. This is the acceptable
agenda that will ensure sustained unity, peace and development of
Kwande.
Kwande people should repel external aggressors and attempts by selfish
sons and daughters of Kwande who are out to sell out the rights of
Kwande people for personal gains.
Kwande Local Government should never ever experience the activities of
militia which has devastated our local government. If it is sacrifice,
Kwande has offered its own part sufficient enough to herald unity,
peace and development.
Kwande was known for its cultural heritage. A textile industry in
Kwande will further internationalize our value.
For Kwande Youths: What the stakeholders should note and Do.
There are no job opportunities for the Kwande youths – unemployment
is everywhere. There is therefore need for the Kwande youths to
develop themselves with appropriate vocational skills so that they can
be useful to themselves and the society. Teachers should note this and
incorporate same into their teaching, equally, Guidance and
Counselling Units in various institutions could play the leading role
of helping the Kwande Youths actualise their potentials in order to
make appropriate career choice.
Concluding Remarks
Today, Shangev-Ya National Day celebration has brought friends from
all over. These friends have seen our predicament and so what can they
do for us? Let me publicly commend his Excellency the Governor of
Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom for his tireless efforts to ensure
that we are enjoying peace in our state, this action will bring
peace and development to Kwande. It is our earnest prayers for you
that God will uplift you to greater heights and as a good and true
friend of Kwande, we wait patiently on you to remember Kwande sons and
daughters in your kingdom.
National Day celebration/Fund raising for ICT Project held at SCSS
Koti Shangev –Ya, Kwande Local Governemnt Area, March, 28th, 2016 By
PROFESSOR NICHOLAS AKISE ADA, MSTAN, FCAI, Professor of Science
Education, Benue State University Makurdi, Nigeria, & Immediate past
Minister of State1 Foreign Affairs
Introduction
I feel highly honoured to have been invited to speak at this occasion.
As Guest Speaker, I was not asked to speak on a specific topic. I am
aware of the fact that this celebration is rooted in Shangev Ya. Most
people will therefore speak to Shangev Ya on issues that affect
Shangev Ya directly. However, it will make more sense to speak to
Kwande people directly, using Shangev Ya as a venue.
I therefore decided to speak on the topic “Needed: A Development
Agenda for Kwande; Antidote for Peace, Unity and Development” The
choice of this topic is based on the fact that the quantum of
political activities in the country vis-a-vis the political terrain in
Kwande now more than ever before, calls for a speech that will create
awareness in the minds of our people, the need to embrace peace and
unity which are catalysts for development. For peace and unity to
prevail, there must be an agenda to be systematically followed and
executed as a basis to guide the actors. It is therefore appropriate
that my speech at this occasion should re-echo peace, unity and
development. This is a justification for the choice of my speech
I understand the agenda of the present Ter Kwande, His Royal Highness,
Chief Hilary Ikima, Ter Kwande III is hinged on “peace, unity, and
development”. Essential Facts about Kwande Local Government
Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) was created in 1976 with Adikpo as
its headquarters. Kwande is bounded by several other LGAs. On the
west, it is bounded by Vandeikya Local Government, Ushongo LGA on the
north, and Katsina-Ala LGA on the Northwest. On the South, it is
bounded by Cross Rivers State and in the east by the Republic of
Cameroon. Kwande LGA also shares a common border with Takum LGA of
Taraba State. It has a population of 248,697 (2006 population census)
with a landmass of 2,891 square kilometers. Kwande has four major
districts namely: Ikyurav-Ya, Nanev, Shangev-Ya and Turan. There are
altogether fifteen council wards namely:
Adikpo Township, Liev I, Live II, Mbadura, Mbakyor, Mbagba-Mbakyan,
Mbayoor, Mbaketsa, Menev, Moon, Tondov I, Tondov II, Yaav, Kumakwagh,
Usar.
As a result of its mountainous nature and proximity to the Cameroonian
range of mountains, Kwande Local Government usually has cold weather
which makes it very conducive to traders and investors. The local
government also has very big rivers (Amile Utamen and Amile Kpa) which
could adequately take care of agricultural and industrial needs.
Food and cash crops grown in Kwande include yam, rice, beans, millet
and palm trees. Other crops like vegetables, pepper, tomatoes, garden
eggs, ginger are produced in large quantity and attract traders from
far to buy in large quantities to other towns and cities. Rice and
peanuts are also produced in commercial quantity and these provide
opportunities for investment in the rice milling and groundnut
processing small scale industries.
The strategic location of Kwande Local Government on a Trunk 'A'
Federal road that runs from the North through Adikpo to the extreme
South has made it easy for both traders and transporters to shift
their goods from and to Adikpo with little or no problem.
EDUCATION
This is the biggest industry in Kwande patronized by virtually everyone.
Early self pioneer efforts by the indigenes of Kwande made in
education resulted in the establishment of TIV Community College
later on, Adikpo Community College (ACC) with late Ako Zungweh as
Proprietor, with Pius Unongo as Manager. Pius Unongo later established
Christ the King College (KCC) Adikpo. These early schools went through
traumatic experiences. Later on, the efforts of various individuals
and communities resulted in the establishment of other schools namely;
Mbagba Community College, Usar Trade Centre, Tseikpa Memorial College,
G. I. Kajo Comprehensive Secondary School, all these within Adikpo.
Outside Adikpo township we had Div Comprehensive Secondary School in
Turan.
Missionary efforts also saw the establishment of schools. The notable
ones were Saint Andrew's Secondary School, Adikpo (SASSA),
Peter- Bulter later NKST Secondary School, Adikpo. None of these
schools is sited in Shange-Ya.
These schools provided the platform for the emergence of educated
elite of Kwande who acquired early education within the Local
Government. A good number of Kwande sons occupying various positions
in the society today are products of these institutions. The current
school statistics in Kwande show that there are 191 UBE-JSS controlled
by Benue State Universal Basic Education Board. There are 36
secondary schools attached to these public primary schools.
In order to appreciate the magnitude of the impact of the education
on the lives of Kwande people, it might be appropriate at this
juncture, to take a look at the educational establishments,
particularly at the post-primary school level in Kwande. The following
picture of educational establishments in Kwande Local Government Area,
showing ownership structure is presented.
It should be noted that government has a responsibility to provide for
the education of its citizenry. The picture of schools in Kwande in
terms of ownership speaks for itself.
Schools owned by NKST Missionaries (Eight in number): NKST Secondary
School Adikpo, NKST Secondary School Chol, NKST Secondary School Jato
Aka, NKST Secondary School Achia, NKST Secondary School Jaki, NKST
Secondary School Adagi, NKST Secondary School Ikyogen, NKST Secondary
School Ugugu.
Schools owned by Catholic Missionaries (Five in number): St. Andrews
Secondary School Adikpo, St. Mary's Secondary School Adikpo, St.
Michael Secondary School Jato-Aka, St. Francis Secondary School
Ikyogen, Holy Trinity Secondary School Adagi.
Self Proprietory Schools (Twenty two in number): Adikpo Comprehensive
College Adikpo, G.I. Kajo Comprehensive College Adikpo, Christ the
King College Adikpo, Madonna High School Adagi, Landmark Model College
Adikpo, Tse-Ikpa Comprehensive College Adikpo, Agbuul Memorial
Secondary School Adikpo, Wantor Model School Adikpo, Sacred Heart
Secondary School Adikpo, Philohans Secondary School TichaMbangongh,
Yachiga Model School Jato-Aka, Mbahula Model School Ada, Ikpila Iorzua
Model School Atsenga, Suranto Model College Koti, Shimo Technical
College Ikyogen, New Jerusalem College Nambe, Igbadoo Model College
Gyon, Abanshi Comprehensive College Gbe, Barakur Peoples comprehensive
school Ichol, Agbuul Model School Boagundu, Mbalumun Community
Secondary School Agishi, Korinjo Memorial College.
Government owned Schools (Four in number):
Government Secondary School Koti, Government Secondary School Anwase,
Government Secondary School Kachi, Government Day Secondary School
Jato-Aka
Schools owned by Communities (Eight in number)
Saaior Community Secondary School Ada, Ikyurav-ya Community Secondary
School Ikyogen, Shangev –ya Community Secondary School Koti, Ajio
Community Secondary School Ajio, Mbagba Community Secondary School
Adikpo, Usar Technical College Adikpo, Maav Community Secondary School
Nyihemba, Moon Community Secondary School Anyiase.
Data Analysis:
Government Owned Schools (4 in number or 8%), Missionaries Owned
Schools (13 in number or 27%) , Self Proprietory Schools (22 in number
or 46%) , Community Owned Schools (9 in number or 19%): Total, 48
schools (or 100%).
It is very clear from this table that the efforts of the Community in
the provision of Education to Kwande people outweigh the efforts of
government. With these facts about Kwande in terms of schools and
economic potentials of the Local Government, the following question
beg for an urgent answer.
What has Education offered for us?
Education is expected to produce people of very sound knowledge,
people that have acquired appropriate skills and also have been
equipped with acceptable attitudes that will make them useful not only
to themselves but also to the society which they belong. One therefore
expects educated Kwande people to embrace peace, unity to foster
development. Education in Kwande has produced for us an Academic Team
which I call 'Kwande Academicals' which can be sent to represent
Kwande at any academic competition across the globe and indeed this
team is out there. Kwande people have been waiting for this team to
bring home laurels for celebration. The team; like a football team,
comprises the following: Professor Daniel I. Denga - (Captain),
Professor Mrs. Hanna Denga, Professor D. V. Uza, Professor Akpenpuun
Dzurgba, Professor J. O. I. Ayatse, Professor Paul Annune, Professor
N. A. Ada, Professor Terfa Ortese, Professor Ambrose Lyam , Professor
Batur Gbenda-Laha, Professor J. A. Sambe, Professor Zanzan Uji,
Professor Fidelis A Ayatse, Prof Akaa Imbwaseh, Professor D. A.
Aboho.
Those on loan are: Professor Charity Angya, Professor Nancy Agbe,
Those on reserve list are Associate Professors PhD holders and are as
follows: Dr. Joseph Kur, Dr. Akombor Ande Akombor, Dr. L. I. Zaria,
Dr. S. Ubwa, Dr. I. Tsegba e.t.c
With this formidable team, Kwande Academicals can certainly perform
and achieve. Kwande people, however, need Objectively Verifiable
Indicators (OVI) of the achievement of this team.
Political Team
On the political scene, Kwande Local Government has produced the likes
of Paul Unongo, Hon. Liambee Shande, Hon. Akuha Tor Gbande, Hon.
Nyaga, Hon. V.T. Uji, Hon. Charles Avur, Hon. Terwase Orbunde, Hon.
Kwaghbula, Hon. Wende, Hon. Col. Aboho, Hon. Col. Basil Kwembeh, Mr.
Adaa Maagbe, Hon. B.B. Nungwa, Hon John Akpereshi, Bob Tyough, Hon
Hemba etc.
The political leadership at the local government council has passed
through several people both indigenes and non-indigenes of Kwande. Let
me however restrict myself to only the elected Chairmen who are all
sons of Kwande:
Mr. Aper Aku (First elected Chairman), Hon. Denis Buter (1988-1989),
Hon Akombor Ande Akombor (1991-1993), Hon. Agboughul Kachi
(1996-1997), Hon. Boniface Ukende (1997-1998), Hon. Denis Dzeka, Hon.
Terlumun Akputu, Hon. Bem Tseen (7th current Chairman). Who is NEXT
and When???
Other Areas of Human Endeavour
Kwande sons and daughters have made contributions in the provision of
goods and services for the upliftment of the name of kwande.
Entrepreneurship, Education, Hospitality, Transport, Textile, Health
care delivery, etc. Notable in these areas include our sons such as
Wantaregh Paul Unongo of JULADACO Group of Companies, MD and Chief
Executive of Pleasure Travels, Paul Orkuma Ubwa, Dr. D. Iordaa, MD/CEO
Water First, the Late Sunda Yongo of Yongo Hotels and Tourism, Mr.
Francis Gbaden Jam (hospitality and Education), Late Matthew Icheen of
Icheen Pharmacy, The Late Hilehongo Anenda, Late Gbeda Tar Shande,
Late A.A. Mnenga, Mr. Titus Tiza Humbe, Late Chief Hon. Samuel
Agbughul Kachi, Late G.I. Kajo, Late Pius Unongo, Late Pever Tseikpa,
Late Ifan Dzurgba in the area of textile and a host of others.
WHAT HAS GONE WRONG?
With all these formidable teams in virtually all areas of development
what has gone wrong? The answer lies with the leadership. Yes the
leadership is critical and crucial however in a football match, it is
not only the coach who is the leader that accounts for the success of
the team.
The people of Kwande may however, note that the challenge of
achievement of a football team rests on a number of factors such as
the nature of the football pitch, the spectators and the weather of
the venue where the match is played.
Kwande once demonstrated her leadership in Tiv in virtually all
spheres of human endeavour. Indeed history has it that the Tiv people
entered their present land through the mountain ranges of the Cameroon
arriving from Swem-Kalagbe in the lofty mountain chain of Jato-Aka in
Kwande Local Government.
Denga (2013) has captured vividly cultural leadership of Kwande
expressed in the following: Kwande has acted as leaders or precursors
in making traditional dresses (the assorted and variegated cargo of
“zebra” cloths used by the global award dancing group that magnify the
Tiv name. The scintillating muscle movement of the dancers is greatly
accentuated by the beautiful colours of the attire. The “hambingers”
and “precursors” of these assorted traditional dresses which enhance
cultural efficacy are from Dzurgba Village near Adikpo “London”-
Kwande.
The question is 'What is the nature of the entire Kwande as a football pitch?'
It is argued that the Kwande pitch is water-logged, and therefore, the
arena is slippery, unfriendly, unattractive, unfavourable, and
insecure for even the sons of Kwande and their collaborators to embark
on development projects that may impact positively on the lives of
Kwande people. One of the possible answers lies in the fact that
Kwande is still in search of a leader that will draw up an agenda for
peace, unity and development and execute it to the latter.
Consequently, there is lack of coordinated centre that will hold the
people of Kwande. There is no single common thread which runs through
Kwande as our people are so divided. Several reasons have been adduced
for this viz: Political differences , Insecurity , Hatred, Jealousy ,
Envy , Intolerance , Selfishness , Arrogance , Mischief , Pull him
down syndrome.
Development Agenda for Kwande
I challenge Kwande sons and daughters to embark on a journey of
development of Kwande. In line with the transformation agenda of the
present administration, it will not be an over-ambition to see the
following emerge from Kwande:
1. There should be at least 20 Kwande companies competing favourably
in the delivery of quality goods and efficient services with the first
20 ECONOMIES in Benue State and the Country;
It means for example having: Kwande construction companies, Kwande air
lines, Kwande textiles industries, Kwande communication companies,
Kwande metallurgical companies, Kwande pharmaceutical companies,
Kwande oil and gas companies, Kwande banking companies, Kwande
tourist companies, Kwande consulting firms, Kwande automobile
companies and other similar companies (20 of them).
This also implies that Kwande should be able to compete favourably in
the businesses of these companies across the State, the Nation and the
Globe;
Kwande must also create history with major breakthrough in science and
technology which should be used both domestically and internationally.
Kwande has suffered a great set back. Our hard earned reputation in
all aspects has gone down the drain. Kwande has been economically
destroyed, politically bastardized, socially manned, educationally
thwarted and security wise endangered. Furthermore our leaders are so
divided pursuant of personal agenda. There are conflicts of interest
among our youths. Youths are sponsored by opportunists to destroy
lives and property. How can development be effected in an environment
of chaos, mistrust, disrespect and blatant manipulation? We need a
leader with an agenda here and now or never. Kwande needs friends,
trusted friends who will share in our plight and assist us. Where can
we look for that kind of friend?
Economic Paralysis of Kwande
Economic stability is a necessary condition for other forms of
stability such as political stability. Unfortunately Kwande has
suffered economic paralysis. Economic activities in Kwande Local
Government have suffered a big setback. The absence of a commercial
bank in Adikpo London, the only London in Africa without a bank, has
scared prospective investors from carrying out commercial transactions
that involve huge sums of money due to security threats. With the
introduction of the present cashless society being practiced in
Nigeria, Kwande Local Government stands completely alienated. I
remember African Continental Bank Adikpo (ACB), Nanev Community Bank
Adikpo, Shangev Ya Community Bank Koti. Where are these financial
institutions? Can we call this development?
I therefore call on the present Local Government Administration in
Kwande to invest in all the processes leading to the establishment of
a commercial bank in Adikpo.
Recommendations of what is possible and can be done.
In order to implement the development agenda for Kwande: There is need
for atmosphere devoid of insecurity and political instability; Our
traditional rulers have a big role to play by uniting the people, Our
political and religious leaders must show commitment and sincerity of
purpose in what they do; else, such a monumental change for Kwande
cannot occur.
Let me recognize and appreciate the efforts of Professor D.V. Uza who
has instituted a foundation aimed at developing Kwande. Through his
foundation, Kwande youths and the aged are assisted through a
systematic scholarship scheme. This is a fantastic effort and path to
development. I also recall the efforts of Professor D.V. Uza in
ensuring that peace return to Kwande at our most difficult time when
Kwande was on fire.
Leaders who occupy positions of responsibility must be supported,
irrespective of previous positions held by other people at various
times in the life and history of Kwande. There can never be parallel
government at any given point in time.
Each Kwande son and daughter must be given opportunity to aspire for
any given position as there are no designated sons of Kwande for
permanent positions. If this happens, there will be peace, unity and
everybody will have the opportunity to demonstrate his ability to make
contributions to the development of Kwande. This is the acceptable
agenda that will ensure sustained unity, peace and development of
Kwande.
Kwande people should repel external aggressors and attempts by selfish
sons and daughters of Kwande who are out to sell out the rights of
Kwande people for personal gains.
Kwande Local Government should never ever experience the activities of
militia which has devastated our local government. If it is sacrifice,
Kwande has offered its own part sufficient enough to herald unity,
peace and development.
Kwande was known for its cultural heritage. A textile industry in
Kwande will further internationalize our value.
For Kwande Youths: What the stakeholders should note and Do.
There are no job opportunities for the Kwande youths – unemployment
is everywhere. There is therefore need for the Kwande youths to
develop themselves with appropriate vocational skills so that they can
be useful to themselves and the society. Teachers should note this and
incorporate same into their teaching, equally, Guidance and
Counselling Units in various institutions could play the leading role
of helping the Kwande Youths actualise their potentials in order to
make appropriate career choice.
Concluding Remarks
Today, Shangev-Ya National Day celebration has brought friends from
all over. These friends have seen our predicament and so what can they
do for us? Let me publicly commend his Excellency the Governor of
Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom for his tireless efforts to ensure
that we are enjoying peace in our state, this action will bring
peace and development to Kwande. It is our earnest prayers for you
that God will uplift you to greater heights and as a good and true
friend of Kwande, we wait patiently on you to remember Kwande sons and
daughters in your kingdom.
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