In a heartfelt celebration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the people of Jaksham Community in Kanke Local Government Area turned the national holiday into an occasion of compassion, unity, and civic advocacy. With the growing economic challenges affecting daily living across the country, the community—under the leadership of its traditional ruler, Ngolong Justin Job—organized a humanitarian outreach that brought relief to hundreds of less privileged members of the society.

The event, held at the community square, witnessed the distribution of assorted food items to vulnerable individuals and families. Community elders, women, youth, and representatives from neighboring villages gathered to receive food packs and hear messages of solidarity, responsibility, and hope.

While addressing the crowd, Ngolong Justin Job emphasized the significance of Democracy Day beyond political declarations. He highlighted the responsibility of traditional institutions in nation-building, particularly at the grassroots level.

“Democracy is not only about elected officials in office. It’s also about the people, the institutions that represent them, and those of us who lead communities. We are part of government too, and this is our way of joining the rest of the country in celebrating democracy.”

Ngolong Job said the outreach was inspired by the struggles of many community members who are battling economic hardship, food scarcity, and lack of basic services. He noted that the gesture was also symbolic, reflecting Jaksham’s commitment to being a partner in governance and development.

During his speech, the traditional ruler listed key political leaders whose efforts at governance are recognized and appreciated by the community. These include:

• Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang
• Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Kudangbena Dewan
• Chief Ephraim Usman Gar, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs
• Hon. Lapchin Golime, Executive Chairman, Kanke LGA
• Hon. Joseph Gokum, Member representing Kanke State Constituency

“We identify with these leaders and commend their work. Today’s event is part of our support for them and a call for greater collaboration between the government and grassroots communities like ours,” he said.

One of the core issues raised by Ngolong Job was the lack of formal recognition for many village heads across Plateau State. He disclosed that although appointed, many traditional leaders—including himself—are yet to receive official appointment letters or certificates confirming their roles.

“Without formal recognition, our capacity to contribute meaningfully, especially in community security and mobilization, is limited. We appeal to His Excellency Governor Caleb Mutfwang to intervene and ensure we are formally recognized. It is a matter of respect, legality, and efficiency.”

Ngolong Justin Job also used the platform to spotlight the poor condition of the only school serving Jaksham community. According to him, the infrastructure is inadequate for the growing student population, with urgent need for new classrooms and renovation of existing ones.

He acknowledged the support of Hon. Joseph Gokum, who recently pledged to add a block of classrooms. However, he called on other leaders and organizations to build on that effort.

“The future of our children depends on the education we give them today. We need more classrooms and a better learning environment. We cannot rely on one contribution alone; we call on others to support this mission.”

Another pressing challenge laid bare at the event was the community’s lack of access to safe drinking water. Jaksham’s population—along with that of adjoining settlements—relies on a single borehole for all water needs.

“One borehole cannot sustain an entire community. We are appealing to the Governor, elected officials, and philanthropic individuals to help us drill more boreholes. Water is life, and our people deserve clean, accessible water.”

Speaking on behalf of the local government, Hon. Emmanuel Gompil, Secretary of Kanke LGC, praised the initiative, stating that it aligns with the priorities of the Council Chairman, Hon. Lapchin Golime, who is focused on people-centered development.

“This effort by Ngolong Jaksham is inspiring. It reminds us that governance starts at the grassroots. I will take this message back to the Chairman, and I’m confident the Council will consider supporting more of such initiatives.”

Also lending his voice was Ngolong Defor Ring, who praised the vision of Ngolong Job and encouraged other traditional rulers to emulate the gesture.

“This is not just a celebration—it’s a message. We must all rise and play our part in building our communities. Let us support government where necessary, and also speak up where attention is needed.”

The event concluded with goodwill messages from the Jaksham Community Development Association (JCDA) and other dignitaries in attendance. They echoed the same call: that government at all levels must increase investment in rural development—especially in education, water, and local security—and that traditional leaders must continue to serve as custodians and advocates for their people.

Amid shared meals and shared hopes, the people of Jaksham demonstrated that democracy is not just a system of government—it is a living experience, best celebrated when it uplifts the vulnerable and inspires action for a better future.

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Jaksham Community Celebrates Democracy Day with Food Outreach, Urges Government to Address Critical Needs