A former Governor of Plateau State and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, Simon Bako Lalong, has been conferred with the prestigious Life Patron award of the National Alumni Association of Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the establishment, revival and development of the institution.
The honour was bestowed on the Senator when the leadership of the Association, led by its National President, David Mimiap Daboer, alongside the University’s Alumni Relations Officer, Fale Gwakring Clement, paid him a courtesy visit at his office in the National Assembly, Abuja.
Presenting the award, the delegation said Senator Lalong was carefully chosen because of his remarkable commitment to the growth of Plateau State University over the years.
They recalled that as Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, he played a pivotal role in the passage of the Bill establishing the University, while as Governor of Plateau State, he revived the institution after a period of closure and repositioned it for academic excellence.
According to them, the Lalong administration not only reopened the University but also expanded its academic programmes through the establishment of new faculties, constructed several critical infrastructure projects, strengthened institutional capacity and successfully hosted the institution’s first-ever convocation ceremony, laying a solid foundation for its continued growth.
Responding, Senator Lalong expressed profound appreciation to the National Alumni Association for the recognition, describing the honour as one he would cherish because of his enduring passion for Plateau State University.
He noted that the success story of the institution was the product of collective sacrifices by many distinguished sons and daughters of Plateau State who believed in the vision of establishing a state-owned university.
The Senator paid glowing tribute to former Governor Chief Joshua Chibi Dariye for conceiving the idea of the University and acknowledged the contributions of General Yakubu Gowon who laid the foundation for the institution. He also recognised the many individuals who worked publicly and behind the scenes to ensure the University survived its early challenges and continued to grow.
Senator Lalong paid special tribute to his late Deputy Governor, Professor Sonni Gwanle Tyoden, describing him as one of the principal architects of the successful revival of the University whose dedication and intellectual leadership were instrumental in restoring the institution to stability and excellence.
He assured the Alumni Association of his continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening Plateau State University and enhancing its capacity to produce graduates who will contribute meaningfully to national development.
Earlier, Senator Lalong also received members of the Tarok Students Association, who were on an educational excursion to the National Assembly to observe Senate plenary proceedings and gain first-hand knowledge of Nigeria’s legislative process.
Welcoming the students, the Senator commended them for their interest in democratic governance and encouraged them to remain focused on their education, uphold discipline and integrity, and strive for excellence in their various fields of endeavour.
He urged them to make their parents, communities and Plateau State proud by becoming responsible leaders who would contribute positively to the development of the nation.
