It was a time of reflection and gratitude at COCIN LCC Lawrin, Heipang, where the Executive Chairman of Barkin-Ladi Local Government, Hon. Stephen Pwajok Gyang, and his family offered thanksgiving to God for the victory in the local government elections.

The thanksgiving service which held on Sunday 30th March, 2025, also climax with the retirement of Nigeria Elizabeth Pwajok from Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), and for God's overall goodness to the family.

Recalled, Hon. Gyang alongside PDP chairmanship candidates across the 17 local government areas of Plateau were declared winners in the councils elections which was conducted by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) sometimes in October, 2024.

The celebrant thanked church and its leadership for their support. He appreciated the presence of the state governor and other top dignitaries at the thanksgiving service, and also the congregation's enthusiasm towards building the church.



He shared his journey in politics, from his humble beginnings to his current position as Chairman of Barkin-Ladi as he expressed confidence in the state governor's return in 2027, citing his impressive work ethic.

Hon. Gyang also recounted God's blessings in his personal life, including his seven children, 13 grandchildren, and his wife's recovery from illness. He described his wife as a woman of faith.

Ngo Elizabeth Pwajok, the wife of the Executive Chairman, became emotional as she reflected on God's immense love and blessings in her life. She thanked everyone for their support.

The Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barrister Caleb Mutfwang (represented by Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo), thanked God for Hon. Gyang's life and admired his gratitude to God. She praised the chairman for good works in Barkin-Ladi and encouraged the congregation to embrace peace and love.



Former Senate minority leader and senator representing Plateau North, Simon Mwadkwon, encouraged the congregation to give thanks to God in all circumstances.

Hon. Silas Dung, Executive Chairman of Jos South local government who spoke on behalf of ALGON Plateau State, expressed their support and appreciation for Hon. Gyang. He charged the celebrant to continue his good work, paving the way for more people in the locality to assume leadership roles. ALGON collectively supported the church project with a donation of N1 million.

However, Rev. Dr. Amos Monzho, President of COCIN, brought a goodwill message from the church leadership, admiring Hon. Gyang's good works in Barkin-Ladi and the church.

Meanwhile, the president Plateau State council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Royal Majesty Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba represented by the Gwom Rwei Vwang His Royal Highness Da Gyang Gutt alongside His Royal Highness Da Paul Taddy Tok, Gwom Rwei Heipang commended Hon. Stephen Pwajok Gyang leadership prowess, urging him carry everyone along in his governance.



Expressing optimism for the chairman's graciousness towards traditional leaders even before he assumed office, the monarchs also appealed to the Plateau State government to review the demotion of their traditional title.

Our correspondent reports that the service was attended by the President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), the PCC Chairman, leaders of the RCC, LCC, the Executive Governor of Plateau State (represented by the Deputy Governor), commissioners, local government chairmen, permanent secretaries, former commissioners, former House of Assembly members, former House of Representatives members, a former senator and minority leader, several appointees, and other well-wishers.