Community honors Gov. Lalong’s Press Director

Mr. Makut Simon Macham, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State might be hunted for a leadership position when he leaves office with his principal.

Makut, a Doctorate Degree holder in Media Arts has never held a public office. He was appointed by Governor Lalong two years ago to coordinate his communication and public relations activities, but he seems to be wanted for more.

Last weekend, his native community, Butura, in Bokkos area of Plateau State awarded him for remarkable impact in the media and communication industry.

Mr. Jerry Isaac Mallo, a local entrepreneur from the same community who recently unveiled his homemade sports car was also awarded for creativity and resilience, along with Sylvia Ulan Andrew, a 17year-old native who recently made A1 in all WAEC subjects.

Mr. Makut said after receiving the award, during a virtual edition of the Butura people’s annual cultural festival tagged “Nahwai”, that he was the least qualified person for recognition.

The former State House Correspondent of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) specifically said the two other awardees were more qualified than him. However, the Village Chief of Pyem Chiefdom, Engr. Mato Dakat told guests at the event that he had admired Makut for years without meeting him.

Mr. Mato who presented the award on behalf of the Butura community said Makut has influenced positive growth in and around Nigeria.

The Plateau State Commissioner of Information, Mr. Dan Manjang also said his work has been a lot easier since Makut was appointed DOPPA.

“I enjoy working with him so much that people tend to envy our relationship,” he said. Manjang told the community that Makut was an asset that others could snatch if not tapped for local benefits.

He did not specifically say, but he seemed to be calling for bigger tasks for the broadcast Journalist. “If you the Butura people will not utilize him, we will take him away and give him new roles with new identity,” he said.

Makut has yet to indicate interest in politics, but his calm, gentle and tactful disposition is a value exchangeable for anything.