Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has announced an empowerment support package for youths and widows of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Regional Church Council (RCC) Headquarters, Du, as part of efforts to promote economic development, self-reliance and inclusive growth across the state.

The governor unveiled the initiative on Sunday during a thanksgiving service at the COCIN RCC Headquarters in Du, Jos South Local Government Area, where former Plateau State governor and elder statesman, Senator Jonah Jang, marked his 80th birthday.

Mutfwang said the intervention was designed to encourage entrepreneurship and financial independence among young people and widows.

Addressing the beneficiaries, the governor urged them to embrace hard work and perseverance, insisting that lasting prosperity is built through diligence rather than shortcuts.

“Wealth is created through hard work, perseverance and commitment. Do not despise humble beginnings, because every great achievement starts with a small step,” he said.

Mutfwang also called on younger generations to honour and care for their parents while they are still alive, describing such responsibility as both a moral obligation and a biblical command.

“It is a privilege to celebrate distinguished leaders while they are still with us. We must not build a culture of waiting until people pass on before appreciating their sacrifices and contributions to society,” he said.

The governor cautioned against foreign practices that encourage the abandonment of elderly parents in care homes, maintaining that African family values place a premium on caring for the aged.

He described Senator Jang’s life as “a remarkable testimony of God’s faithfulness, preservation, grace and enduring favour,” and prayed for continued strength, good health and long life for the former governor.

Mutfwang also congratulated Rev. Sylvester Dachomo on his election as Deputy General Secretary of COCIN, expressing confidence that his leadership would further strengthen the church’s mission.

Earlier, the President of COCIN, Rev. Amos Mohzo, described Senator Jang as a leader whose life had been defined by dedication, courage and service.

He urged political leaders, traditional rulers, the Church and citizens to uphold peace, justice and unity, saying, “True leadership is measured not by position or privilege but by service, integrity and the positive impact made on society.”

In his remarks, Senator Jang expressed gratitude to God for preserving his life and thanked the people of Plateau State for their support throughout his years in public service.

“I am grateful to my family, friends, associates and the good people of Plateau State for their prayers, counsel and unwavering support throughout my life’s journey,” he said, pledging to remain committed to the values of service, humility and godliness.

The thanksgiving service attracted political leaders, government officials, clergy, traditional rulers, family members and well-wishers from within and outside Plateau State who gathered to celebrate the elder statesman’s enduring legacy of leadership and public service. (Channels)