By Golok Nanmwa

Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Naanlong Daniel, has formally declared his intention to seek a second term in office, even as leaders and party officials in his Mikang Local Government Area constituency gave him a resounding marching order to contest.

Daniel made the declaration during a consultative meeting with members of the Mikang Legislative Arm and All Progressives Congress (APC) officials in the area.

Addressing the stakeholders, the Speaker described grassroots leaders as the “pillar and structure” of democratic governance, stressing that their experience and deep understanding of local dynamics are critical for sustainable development.

He expressed gratitude to God for the prevailing unity within the APC in Mikang, describing it as vital for political stability and progress in the area.

The Speaker said the consultation was to seek the support, prayers, and understanding of the legislators and party leadership, whose roles he described as indispensable in shaping the future of the local government.

Highlighting the importance of experience in governance, Daniel noted that his journey, including his time as Majority Leader, had been marked by loyalty and sincerity, which had prepared him adequately for the speakership.

He pointed out that the new harmonised Standing Rules across state houses of assembly in the federation now ensure that only returning members preside over legislative leadership, underscoring the need for continuity and institutional knowledge.

Lamenting that Mikang had lagged in development for years, the Speaker stressed that progress must be deliberate, conscious, and driven by visionary leadership.

“I remain a leader for the entire Local Government, not for any particular tribe or group,” he affirmed, while urging councillors and party officials to embrace purposeful leadership anchored on a clear vision for the people.

Daniel clarified that his re-election bid was not aimed at blocking anyone’s ambition but to consolidate existing gains and accelerate development across Mikang, which he said stands at a crossroads.

The Speaker assured his constituents of tangible dividends, disclosing that fertilisers would soon be distributed to farmers through councillors and party chairmen as points of contact.

He added that plans are underway to drill over 25 boreholes across the four districts of the local government.

On infrastructure, Daniel revealed that the Lifidi-Piapung to Baltep and Lalin to Garkawa road projects, facilitated through his office with the support of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, have been awarded and construction is ongoing.

He said the roads, when completed, would boost economic activities in the area.

The Speaker called for inclusive and friendly politics, warning against divisive tendencies, and reiterated his commitment to work with all stakeholders for the collective good of Mikang.

“I am a leader for everybody. I am here to seek your prayers, support, and cooperation so that together, we can move Mikang to greater heights and transform it into a tourist haven,” he declared.

In their responses, the Leader of the Mikang Legislative Arm, Hon. Putdet Shepshal, commended Daniel for his consistent and purposeful leadership, including interventions such as paying WAEC and NECO examination fees, JAMB registration, and scholarships for students across tertiary institutions.

Shepshal noted that the council had backed the Speaker even during their time in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and would continue to support him.

Similarly, APC Chairman in Mikang, Peleng Caleb, and the Chairman of Ward Chairmen, Hon. Sati Yongpian, described the Speaker as a “miracle child” and a unifying figure.

They collectively endorsed his re-election bid, assuring him of their full support.